US Navy support ships draw attention in the Westfjords

Two vessels working for the US Navy are currently near the Jökulfirðir fjords in the Westfjords, drawing attention from residents and others monitoring ship movements off Iceland, mbl.is reported.

The supply and service ships, HOS Red Rock and HOS Red Dawn, are sister vessels measuring 89 metres long and more than 3,900 gross tonnes. One has been in the area for about a week, while the other arrived early on Sunday.

The Icelandic Coast Guard confirmed that the ships are working for the US Navy and have permission from Icelandic authorities to call at ports and receive services in Iceland.

Because the ships operate outside Iceland’s exclusive economic zone, they are not required to obtain research permits or provide details about their missions, the Coast Guard said. While in Icelandic territorial waters, they must remain in contact with the Coast Guard’s operations centre.