Captain Andrew Betton: 'HMS Ocean will help stop river threats'

Captain Andrew Betton said the ship would focus on air security over the weekend, with river operations taking place between Tuesday and Thursday next week.

"That will stretch all elements of Ocean's contribution to the security plan, and then I hope assure the security organisation that we are ready to provide the envelope required for the Olympic Games themselves," he said. Capt Betton said the ship would help stop any potential threats on the river.

"The versatility and manoeuvrability of helicopters allows them to get to the scene of action very swiftly to identify and to divert any surface vessels that are heading up the Thames, to ascertain their intentions and if necessary take action," he added.