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Maritime Combat Power Visit:
A Glimpse into the Naval Strength of HMNB Portsmouth Commander Gustavo Cabral Thome, Brazilian Navy
THE MARITIME COMBAT POWER Visit (MCPV) brought naval enthusiasts and professionals to His Majesty’s Naval Base (HMNB) Portsmouth on the 1st and 2nd of March 2023. While the visit did not provide an opportunity for sea voyages, it offered a unique chance for participants to embark on several vessels and gain valuable insights into naval capabilities.
Departing from JSCSC Shrivenham on the 1st of March, the MCPV arrived at HMNB Portsmouth
on the 2nd of March. Though the open seas were
not accessible during this visit, course members
had the privilege to embark on renowned vessels
for acquaint visits. Some of the vessels alongside included HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH, HMS DIAMOND, HMS SEVERN, HMS BROCKLESBY, XV PATRICK BLACKETT, and the iconic HMS VICTORY. These vessels represented different facets of naval power, showcasing the diversity of capabilities within the Royal Navy.
MCPV showcased displays and representations from various naval units and groups, adding to the
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comprehensive understanding of maritime combat power. Participants were able to witness the prowess of the Fleet Air Arm, the skills of the Diving & Threat Exploitation Group, the expertise of the Mine Threat Exploitation Group, and the future capabilities of the Future Commando Force. This wide range of displays emphasised the importance of a joint approach in naval operations, showcasing the collaborative efforts of different units within the Royal Navy.
The aim of the MCPV was to contextualise and complement the Maritime Capability module delivered during Term 1 of the ACSC. By providing students with a firsthand experience of naval assets and operations, the visit allowed them to develop a better understanding of the Royal Navy’s contribution to joint campaigns. Participants gained insights into the operational capabilities
of the Maritime Component; operating under the Integrated Operating Concept (IOPC) and Maritime Domain Integration (MDI); and how a fully fledged “runashore” takes place - the first involving the whole of ACSC26! This deeper appreciation of the Royal Navy’s role in joint operations will undoubtedly benefit the future military leaders participating in the ACSC.
This wide
range of displays
emphasised the importance of a joint approach in naval operations