Two Royal Navy ships collide in Bahrain in an embarrassing video which has already made the rounds on social media. One vessel, HMS Chiddingfold, backs into HMS Bangor, which is moored at the dock. Though Chiddingfold did not appear to have much velocity, her 750 tons slammed into HMS Bangor with considerable force. The Royal Navy has acknowledged the incident without offering any details or explanation, stating only that there were no injuries, and that the investigation is ongoing. Both vessels are made of glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) commonly known as fiberglass, and photos have shown considerable damage inflicted on HMS Bangor. Both vessels are minesweepers, and the fiberglass construction is intended to reduce their magnetic signature. The online forums are rife with criticism and judgement, and predictions that heads will roll. While individuals may very well be sacked, there are a variety of issues which can contribute to such a mishap, including human and mechanical errors. While the causes of this incident will emerge in due course, I would not take this as an indictment of the Royal Navy as a whole. Having served alongside them in the past, I was always impressed with their skill and professionalism, and proud to regard them as comrades.

About the Author

Cam

Cam served as an infantry officer in the Marine Corps, deploying to the Horn of Africa and participating in combat operations in Iraq. He currently works in the maritime industry and in the defense sector as an instructor of combined arms planning and operations. An avid sailor, Cam founded and directs Triumph Sailing, a nonprofit that supports veterans and first responders through adventure and fellowship on the water. Triumph Sailing just completed its big yearly event, an offshore race in the Gulf of Mexico with an all veteran crew. You can support the mission and next year's sailing season at Tri-Sail.Org.