The crews are part of the naval reserve and are under military discipline when required for service by the UK government.

[1] The company was formed by a consortium of Bibby Line, Houlder Hadley, James Fisher plc and Andrew Weir Shipping in 2001.

[2] In August, 2013, James Fisher plc sold its 25% shareholding in Foreland to the Hadley Shipping Group.

Two more ships, Beachy Head and Longstone, were sold in 2013 as part of MoD reviews and cut backs.

The ship's assistance was requested after coastguard vessels were unable to approach due to adverse weather conditions.