With the serious damage being suffered by British frigates in late 1975, due to aggressive ramming by Icelandic gunboats, in the Third Cod War in 1976, Lincoln received a short refit for patrol duties with improved wooden padding on the bow area for ramming reinforcement.

[2] It has been suggested that Lincoln was selected for this ramming role as it was the one Type 61, not fitted with hull stabilizer fins.

[3] She was engaged in sea trials before commencing active service, when settlement was reached over the fishing conflict.

In 1976 the New Zealand Government sought to purchase a second hand Royal Navy ship to replace HMNZS Taranaki, and HMS Lincoln was one of four RN frigates that was offered for sale.

Remaining in British service, Lincoln carried out a tour of duty in the Arctic Circle and served as the guard ship in Gibraltar during late 1976.