HMS Albion, the afloat command platform for the Royal Navy's Amphibious Task Force is in Grand Harbour on a short break.

The ship's role is to transport, deploy and recover troops with their equipment and vehicles which form part of an amphibious assault force.

It is capable of embarking 256 staff or troops (with an additional 405 troops in overload) and their associated vehicles and combat supplies. The vehicle deck is capable of holding up to 31 large trucks and 36 smaller vehicles, such as Land Rover and Viking all terrain vehicles and their trailers.

The ship can carry armoured vehicles, including the 70 tonne, Challenger II Main Battle Tank. Vehicles are offloaded through the dock by the 4 Landing Craft Utility (LCU) carried in the ship whilst personnel are offloaded from davits on the ship's sides by 4 Landing Craft Vehicle and Personnel (LCVP). The ship has a flight deck capable of operating 2 helicopters at a time, with a third aircraft parked.

The 18,500 tonne assault ship has had a busy few months undertaking amphibious exercises in the Mediterranean in May, supporting NATO maritime operations off Libya in June and, most recently, strengthening the UK's relationships in the Middle East.

Also currently in Grand Harbour is the Royal Navy minesweeper Bangour and an Icelandic patrol ship, the Tyr.