A Royal Navy frigate has intercepted a massive haul of illegal drugs valued at £30 million, after trailing a suspicious vessel for over 24 hours in the Arabian Sea. HMS Lancaster’s drones detected the illegal activity, prompting the warship to launch a strategic operation.
Using its Wildcat helicopter, HMS Lancaster monitored the boat while a boarding team from 42 Commando conducted a successful raid, uncovering 80 packages of narcotics.
According to a Royal Navy spokesperson, the seized drugs included 1,000kg of heroin, 660kg of hashish, and 6kg of amphetamine—a combined street value of around £30 million in the UK.
“It’s the second bust in three months for the British warship, which is based in Bahrain and part of a New Zealand-led international task force patrolling the Indian Ocean,” the spokesperson explained.
“Once again, the Royal Navy’s new Peregrine drones—compact helicopters capable of extended surveillance and real-time data sharing—were crucial to the mission’s success.”
Commander Chris Chew, HMS Lancaster’s commanding officer, praised the ship’s autonomous capability:
“This is another example of Lancaster delivering results at range, independently, and using her onboard resources.
From the Wildcat and Peregrine drone systems to our intelligence and Royal Marine boarding teams, each asset played a critical role supporting Combined Maritime Forces and Combined Task Force 150.”
Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard also applauded the operation:
“I commend HMS Lancaster’s crew on this major drug seizure, which helps prevent dangerous substances from reaching our streets.
This mission underscores the Royal Navy’s vital global role in disrupting criminal networks and keeping the UK safe.”
