HMS Richmond arrived in Manila carrying maritime cooperation, defence technology and enough networking potential to make LinkedIn briefly consider installing radar.
The Type 23 frigate visited the Philippines during the Carrier Strike Group’s eight month Indo Pacific deployment. Discussions covered closer naval activity, maritime awareness and the beginning of talks about a possible Status of Visiting Forces Agreement. On board, an industry day showcased British defence technology to potential partners.
Thus the warship became a floating conference centre whose equipment can detect submarines. Guests received briefings, introductions and the quiet reminder that anything marked “countermeasure” is not a novelty drinks dispenser. It is apparently possible to bring lethal capability and still worry that someone has forgotten the name badges.
Commodore Barnaby, Envoy for Tactical Canapés, described the traditional sequence of defence diplomacy as identifying shared objectives, demonstrating interoperability and exchanging business cards before the harbour pilot became visibly disappointed. The frigate had come to strengthen a strategic relationship and left looking like the only networking event with a weapons system.
The Government described defence as an engine for growth, which encouraged several engineers to inspect the engine room for a quarterly sales target. The crew continued the serious work of watchkeeping, maintenance and maritime operations while the industry delegation explained that every conversation represented an exciting pipeline. Somewhere, a brochure was being briefed on the rules of engagement.
The wider Carrier Strike Group deployment involves around 4,000 personnel and engagement with 30 countries. The group has accumulated more regional contacts than a management consultant. Its out of office message has better radar, more convincing countermeasures and considerably less interest in a follow up call.
Britain and the Philippines are planning increased naval activity, including participation in Exercise SAMA SAMA later this year. The arrangement promises cooperation and capacity building, while the trade language ensures that every serious security conversation arrives wearing a small laminated lanyard.
Before departing Manila, HMS Richmond accepted one final connection request. The frigate endorsed the Philippines for maritime cooperation, the Philippines endorsed the frigate for PowerPoint, and both agreed that the coffee had strategic depth.
Real story: Ministry of Defence.
