NAIROBI, Kenya — Two Royal Navy vessels have arrived at the Port of Mombasa, highlighting the growing defence and maritime security cooperation between Kenya and the United Kingdom.
The visit by HMS Dragon and RFA Lyme Bay comes as the two vessels operate in the region amid heightened international focus on maritime security and the protection of critical global trade routes.
The ships are currently undertaking a routine port visit in Mombasa for maintenance and resupply following a period of training.
The UK said the deployment provides its Armed Forces with additional options for a potential multinational maritime security mission in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route.
The presence of the vessels in Mombasa also provides an opportunity for the two countries to strengthen cooperation on maritime security, regional stability and the protection of trade routes.
Kenya-UK defence ties
The visit was marked by a reception on Tuesday attended by senior political figures, representatives of the Kenya Defence Forces and business leaders.
The event highlighted the longstanding defence relationship between Kenya and the UK and the two countries’ shared interest in strengthening security and economic stability in East Africa.
The partnership operates under the UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership and Security Compact, which covers maritime security, counterterrorism and other areas of defence and security cooperation.
Speaking at the reception, Diana Dalton, Deputy British High Commissioner to Kenya, described the security relationship between the two countries as one of the UK’s deepest in Africa.
“Through our defence partnership, we are working together to strengthen cooperation and build professional capability,” Dalton said.
She added that stronger national and regional security would contribute to stronger economies and safer communities.
Kenya Navy welcomes Royal Navy vessels
Brigadier Sankale Kiswaa of the Kenya Navy welcomed the visit, noting the longstanding relationship between Kenya and the UK.
He said the partnership had contributed to efforts to strengthen Kenya’s maritime capabilities, including support for the Kenya Marine Commando Unit.
“For us it’s great to have two ships in the Port of Mombasa,” Kiswaa said.
The Kenya Navy, he added, remains focused on ensuring a safe maritime environment for vessels operating in Kenyan waters.
About the vessels
HMS Dragon is one of the Royal Navy’s six Type 45 air-defence destroyers. Its primary role is protecting naval forces against airborne threats, although the vessel can also support disaster relief operations and counter-narcotics boarding missions.
RFA Lyme Bay, meanwhile, is a Royal Fleet Auxiliary landing ship designed to transport troops, vehicles, stores and equipment during amphibious operations and exercises.
The vessel also supports NATO missions, humanitarian operations and disaster-response efforts.
The UK said the Mombasa visit demonstrates the importance of Kenya-UK maritime cooperation in protecting trade routes and strengthening regional security while supporting wider economic interests.
The two countries are expected to continue deepening defence cooperation as part of their broader strategic partnership in East Africa.
