 |
| 4 British Warships Participate in 2022 World Cup Security Operations in Qatar |
London - The British Royal Navy deployed 4 ships to the Gulf as part of security measures around the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The hosts are reportedly seeking an international coalition to ensure security for the competition. Three British mine-hunting vessels and an additional support vessel based in Bahrain will reportedly take part in regular patrols throughout the tournament.
"Three sappers, plus their aircraft carrier, have been assigned to remain in and around Qatar and the Middle (Gulf) until Christmas as part of a Qatar-led international security effort, ensuring the world's largest football festival is not marred by hostile acts." a spokesman for the British Royal Navy told the Metro newspaper, as quoted by Arab News.
"HMS Chiddingfold and HMS Bangor will conduct round-the-clock patrols of the sea lanes leading to the Gulf nation, using advanced sonar and remotely controlled underwater devices to find and identify mines or bombs," he continued.
HMS Middleton will remain on standby to provide additional support if needed. “Our minehunters have been here for 16 years keeping the sea routes open. The continued flow of trade and energy during these turbulent times is even more important to UK interests. It is an extraordinary privilege to command the Royal Navy's support for the FIFA World Cup, building on the strong defense relationship between Qatar and the UK," said the group's commander, Adrian Visram.
Qatar will deploy tens of thousands of security personnel for the World Cup, including police and specialists from 13 other countries, to maintain order and prevent terrorist activity. French, Turkish and Pakistani riot police and bomb disposal experts will be among those stationed in stadiums and fan zones across Qatar.