HMS Somerset’s commanding officer Cdr Joel Roberts said the crew, consisting of nearly 200 people, was always prepared to protect the UK, even during holiday periods.

“As the UK is an island nation, at all times of the year the Royal Navy maintains units at very high readiness to conduct operations in support of the UK’s national objectives,” he said.

Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard, who is MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, said the crew involved had shown great “professionalism” during the operation.

“I would like to thank the crew of HMS Somerset for their dedication after readying themselves for action at short notice during the Christmas period, and promptly setting sail from Devonport to keep the UK safe,” he said.