HMS Ocean returns to Devonport from five-month tour

HMS Ocean could be decommissioned under the Strategic Defence and Security Review

The Royal Navy's largest warship, HMS Ocean, has returned to its home port of Devonport after five months away.

Banner-waving families entertained by Her Majesty's Royal Marine Band of Plymouth welcomed the crew as the ship arrived, delayed by bad weather.

HMS Ocean visited the US, Brazil and Nigeria during the 16,000 mile (25,700km) tour.

Royal Marines from Plymouth-based 42 Commando on board the vessel conducted amphibious exercises and patrols.

HMS Ocean's Commanding Officer Capt Keith Blount said the ship's crew had been aware of the publication of the Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) last week which revealed HMS Ocean could be decommissioned.

The SDSR said a study would be carried out on HMS Ocean and HMS Illustrious to decide which of the two ships provided the most effective helicopter platform capability and which should be scrapped.

Capt Blount said said there might have to be some changes under the review.

But as far as he was concerned, it was "business as usual" for his ship and personnel, he said.