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Royal Navy divers took the opportunity to dive with their counterparts in the Norwegian Navy in Plymouth Sound.

The dive team from Southern Diving Unit 1, based in HM Naval Base, Devonport, Plymouth, joined colleagues from HnoMS Fridtjof Nansen, an advanced Royal Norwegian Navy frigate.

Lieutenant Commander Peter Davis, the Officer-in-Charge of the Royal Navy unit, said: “A crisp, cold day in Plymouth Sound was the perfect opportunity for the two navies to share their knowledge and the unique camaraderie created by working in the underwater environment.

“We are always happy to engage with visiting navies and cross-pollinate ideas and working practices.’’

Both teams took full advantage of the rare chance to dive with each other and share best practice.

The home unit is a Royal Naval clearance diving unit which is on 24-hour duty to dispose of ordnance through the South West and South Wales which poses a hazard to the public.

Three Norwegian divers embarked in a Royal Navy diving unit rigid inflatable boat to conduct a dive near Drake’s Island in Plymouth Sound.

Joined by two Royal Navy clearance divers, the Norwegian Navy divers conducted a set of emergency drills and a sea-bed survey to refine their skills and operational capability.

HnoMS Fridtof Nansen is conducting a rigorous training package with Devonport-based Flag Officer Sea Training staff to improve joint working ability with the Royal Navy.

The chance to dive together came after the Norwegians requested assistance with completing an equipment check during their busy programme and benefited their training.