The UK and Kenya are deepening their maritime security partnership in the Indian Ocean, with the arrival of two Royal Navy vessels in Mombasa highlighting the strategic importance of Kenya’s coastline and the Port of Mombasa.
Royal Navy destroyer HMS Dragon and Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel RFA Lyme Bay are currently operating in the region, giving the UK Armed Forces additional options for a potential multinational maritime security mission in the Strait of Hormuz.
The vessels made a routine port visit to Mombasa for maintenance and resupply following a period of training.
Their presence is also providing an opportunity for Kenya and the UK to strengthen practical cooperation in the Indian Ocean through training, capability development and maritime security operations.
A reception aboard HMS Dragon on Tuesday evening brought together senior political figures, Kenya Defence Forces representatives and business leaders to celebrate the longstanding defence relationship between the two countries.
The partnership is anchored in the UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership and Security Compact, which covers maritime security, counterterrorism and other areas of mutual interest.
Deputy British High Commissioner Diana Dalton described the security relationship between the two countries as one of the deepest in Africa.
“The UK and Kenya’s security relationship is one of the deepest in Africa. Through our defence partnership, we are working together to strengthen cooperation and build professional capability,” she said.
Dalton said the partnership would contribute to stronger national and regional security while supporting safer and more prosperous communities.
“We are going far and going together, building a stronger future for East Africa,” she said.
Brigadier Sankale Kiswaa of the Kenya Navy said Kenya appreciated British support in strengthening the capabilities of the navy, particularly the Kenya Marine Commando Unit.
“Kenya and the UK have a great relationship spanning hundreds of years. We appreciate what the UK government is doing to improve our capabilities, especially the Kenya Marine Commando Unit,” he said.
Kiswaa said the Kenya Navy remained at the forefront of efforts to provide a safe environment for mariners, adding the presence of the British vessels in Mombasa was significant.
The visit comes as maritime security gains increasing importance in the Indian Ocean and beyond, with international shipping routes facing security threats and geopolitical tensions.
HMS Dragon is one of the Royal Navy’s six Type 45 air-defence destroyers. Although primarily designed to counter aerial threats, the vessel can also support disaster relief and counter-narcotics operations.
RFA Lyme Bay is a landing ship capable of transporting troops, vehicles and supplies ashore. It supports amphibious operations and exercises, Nato missions, humanitarian assistance and disaster-response operations.
The deployment underscores the growing importance of cooperation between Kenya and international partners in safeguarding maritime routes and strengthening security in the wider Indian Ocean region.
