[2] Her design was based on that of HMS Guardian, built in 1932, but with more powerful machinery and improved equipment for handling nets.

[3] Protector was modified in 1955 for service as a guardship for the Falkland Islands Dependencies and a survey vessel for Antarctic waters.

A further refit in 1957 saw Protector's bridge remodelled, while in 1958 a tripod mainmast was mounted on the ship's hangar, and a crane was fitted.

[6] Protector served in the South Atlantic and in the Norwegian Campaign during World War II before being hit by an aerial torpedo in the Mediterranean.

During her patrols the ship rescued the passengers and crew of the icebound MV Theron, including Sir Edmund Hillary and Dr Vivian Fuchs.

[8] In 1957, Protector rescued the passengers of the RRS Shackleton, which had struck an iceberg and had to perform emergency repairs to keep from sinking.