Royal Navy responds after "defect" found on HMS Spey with Japanese navy aiding Portsmouth ship repairs

Portsmouth-based HMS Spey had to go through a “defect rectification” process after issues stopped her from continuing training exercises. As previously reported in The News, Japanese sailors supported British personnel to get the River-class offshore patrol vessel back up and running.

In a statement issued on X, formerly known as Twitter, the ship said: “HMS Spey recently completed defect rectification with the assistance of our friends in Japan and the support of Japan Marine United in Yokosuka. The Ship has now been fully restored to its capabilities and is back out on the high seas undertaking vital training for the Ship’s Co.”

The Royal Navy said the duration of refit periods is determined by a number of factors. This includes requirements which emerge while work is taking place, as well as pre-planned repairs and capability insertions. When asked about what defects were found on the vessel, and how sailors fixed them, a spokeswoman added: “All Royal Navy vessels are subject to routine maintenance to ensure their continuing effectiveness.

“We cannot comment further on the detail of upgrades or forward availability forecasts, to preserve the operational security of the fleet.” HMS Spey has been in Japan since April training exercises in the East China Sea with their Korean counterparts. Great Britain and Japan are currently in a co-operation agreement and have planned military exercises in 2025.

HMS Prince of Wales is due to be deployed to the Indo-Pacific next year and take charge of a UK Carrier Strike Group. Defence secretary Grant Shapps said the move was made in response to send a “strong message”.

He added: “In an increasingly volatile world where we can no longer take peace for granted, it’s critical to stand united with our allies and partners in defence of democracy and freedom. Conducting joint exercises sends a strong message to anyone who would seek to undermine the rules-based international order, our defence relationships are not limited by distance and we stand ready to respond to any threat around the globe.

“A safe and stable Indo-Pacific is vital to our collective security, allowing free and unhindered trade and travel, and our world-leading partnerships with Japan and the US further emphasise our commitment to the region.”