The HMS Dauntless, a Royal Navy destroyer from the United Kingdom, recently conducted live-fire exercises as part of Operation Highmast, an eight-month naval mission covering the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific region.
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The tests, carried out on July 6, 2025, included machine gun and naval cannon fire at floating targets in a combat simulation aimed at maintaining the vessel’s operational readiness.
Operation Highmast is led by the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales and involves more than 4,500 British service members, along with allied forces from over 12 countries. In addition to training, the naval group conducts diplomatic visits and promotes the UK defense industry. The HMS Dauntless, under the command of Commander Ben Dorrington, plays a central role in fleet air defense, protecting strategic assets throughout the mission.
Measuring 152 meters in length and displacing up to 8,500 tons, the Dauntless is equipped with Aster missiles, the Sea Viper system, cannons, machine guns, and the capability to operate armed helicopters. Designed for air defense missions, the ship will also undergo upgrades, including the integration of new missiles and anti-ship weapons. Its participation in the mission highlights the strategic role of Type 45 destroyers in protecting British naval forces during global joint operations.
Source: UK Defence Journal | Photo: X @RoyalNavy | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
🛳️ HMS Dauntless has conducted live-fire gunnery drills during #OperationHighmast, targeting floating threats with GPMGs, HMGs, and 30mm cannons. The Type 45 destroyer is deployed with the UK Carrier Strike Group on its 2025 Indo-Pacific mission. #CSG25 pic.twitter.com/ubrE6vGbAg
— UK Defence Journal (@UKDefJournal) July 30, 2025
