KINGSTON, Jamaica—Communities in Jamaica affected by Hurricane Melissa will receive targeted support from the British-built Offshore Patrol Vessel, BHMS Trent, which sailed to Falmouth, Trelawny, on Tuesday, November 4, with specialist personnel and equipment.

HMS Trent carried a 75-strong crew, including specialist engineers who were deployed ashore to provide technical expertise in support of recovery efforts. Their work will focus on infrastructure assessments and emergency repairs, in coordination with Jamaican authorities.

John Healey, UK defence secretary

“I’m proud of our British Armed Forces for the important role they play in disaster relief missions. Our Royal Navy and British Army personnel will support their civilian colleagues with specialist engineering expertise to assist local recovery efforts – as Britain steps up to support those in need,” said John Healey, UK defence secretary.

Meanwhile, Minister for the Caribbean Chris Elmore said, “UK government teams have been working around the clock to get relief supplies to those hardest hit by the hurricane, and the Royal Navy’s HMS Trent has arrived to assist with local recovery efforts. British personnel are on board to help restore vital infrastructure for communities affected by the storm, supporting those most in need.”

Minister for the Caribbean Chris Elmore

The deployment comes after the UK announced a wider package of support to Jamaica, including over 3,000 shelter kits and over 1,500 solar-powered lanterns to help those whose homes have been damaged and those without power. A specialist FCDO Rapid Deployment Team is also in Jamaica to provide consular assistance to affected British nationals.

“The UK stands with Jamaica during this challenging time. The arrival of HMS Trent underscores our enduring partnership and our commitment to supporting Jamaica’s recovery. From humanitarian supplies to technical expertise, we are working closely with the Government of Jamaica to help communities rebuild stronger and more resilient in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa,” said British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Alicia Herbert.

The UK government has also announced £7.5 million in emergency funding to support the region’s immediate humanitarian needs. This funding is enabling the delivery of relief items and UK humanitarian and technical experts who are in the region to assist with the coordination and delivery of aid.