The UK hopes the presence of Type 45 destroyer HMS Dragon will strengthen confidence in the commercial shipping industry by supporting mine clearance efforts in the Strait of Hormuz when a peace deal is made.
Support ship RFA Lyme Bay is also being converted to act as a mothership to mine-hunting drones which could help clear shipping lanes.
The UK and France are hosting a meeting of defence ministers tomorrow on military plans to protect the flow of shipping in the strait once the war ends.
Defence Secretary Mr Healey said: “The UK is leading this multinational, defensive mission because trade, energy, and economic security for working people here at home depend on it.
“We are turning diplomatic agreement into practical military plans to restore confidence for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. When I co-chair this meeting of nations from around the world, our job will be to make sure we are not just talking, we are ready to act.
“That is why I have directed HMS Dragon to the Middle East, so Britain is in position to support this mission the moment it is needed. This Government will not stand by when instability drives up costs for British families and businesses. We will give people hope for the future by securing Britain and our national interests.”
The HMS Dragon is heading to the Middle East(Image: LPhot Helayna Birkett/Royal Navy / SWNS)
