Mina Salman Port breaks ground
Construction has begun on the Royal Navy's new port facility in Bahrain, with a ground-breaking ceremony for the start of the build held on 31 October.
The new facility, called HMS Juffair, will be central to the navy's operational capabilities in the region. It will give the navy a permanent and enhanced regional presence and enable longer-term deployments in the Gulf, where the navy plays an important role in maintaining security and stability. The new base is located inside Mina Salman, near the national capital of Manama.
Philip Hammond, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, said: 'The beginning of construction work at Mina Salman Port marks a watershed moment in the UK's commitment to the region.
'The presence of the Royal Navy in Bahrain is guaranteed into the future, ensuring Britain's sustained presence east of Suez. The new facility will enable Britain to work with our allies to reinforce stability in the Gulf and beyond.'
More from Naval Warfare
-
Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.
-
L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts
L3Harris is targeting European naval modernisation with new uncrewed surface vessels, SATCOM partnerships, and regional investments including defence exercises and facility openings.
-
Interview: DSTA collaborates with Leonardo, Thales and Safran for naval C-UAS
In an exclusive interview with Shephard, DSTA chief Ng Chad-son outlines how the agency is reshaping defence tech development through deeper collaboration with industry partners, from AI-enhanced radar to smart naval munitions.
-
BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft
The agreement is intended to boost opportunities for both UK and Norwegian naval shipbuilding.
-
How the Force Design 2028 will impact US Coast Guard acquisitions
The FD 2028 strategy intends to reduce the bureaucracy in procurement processes while speeding up the field of assets.
-
Thin-line towed arrays on uncrewed vessels deliver more cost-effective sonar, says SEA
Miniaturisation of technology opens up radical sensing technologies to smaller navies under submarine threat, according to SEA sonar expert.