On 6 March, early warning aircraft from the carrier HMS Ark Royal began search operations in the Mozambique Channel.[1] The frigate HMS Rhyl and a logistical support ship were soon added. On 28 Feb 1966 HMS Eagle had sailed from Singapore on passage to Beira and remained on station until 10 May 1966 (being relieved by HMS Ark Royal (R09)), returning to Singapore on 10 May 1966.[1] In 71 days Eagle flew 1,070 sorties, flying 600,000 miles, surveying 200,000 square miles daily, steaming a total of 30,000 miles (details as per HMS Eagle Beira Patrol diary from the Line Book 1964-66).