A UK Task Force has concluded security operations in response to a request from the Maltese Government, the British High Commission said in a statement today.

The UK provided the warships HMS Bulwark and Somerset, Merlin helicopters from 814 Naval Air Squadron, and RAF assets including Typhoon fighter aircraft which were placed at readiness.

A Maltese Armed Forces spokesman quoted by the High Commission said:

“The smooth delivery of these prestigious events, safety of all participants and the general public is the sole focus for the Maltese security apparatus at the moment. Given the significance of these events, and the responsibility placed upon us, we have invited the UK Armed Forces to support us in this security operation. They bring recent experience and appropriate capabilities to ensure together we can defeat any threat.”

Cdre Martin Connell Royal Navy added:

“The United Kingdom’s Armed Forces enjoy a close, friendly relationship with our colleagues in the Armed Forces of Malta. We are delighted to offer our support to the Maltese Government’s security operation this month which draws on our experience in providing security to high profile events such as the Olympics in 2012 and the Commonwealth Games last year.“

The UK is also due to assist in security for next week's Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).