In January 2003, "Edinburgh" deployed to the Persian Gulf and subsequently took part in the Second Gulf War against the dictator Saddam Hussein. While there, "Edinburgh" performed a variety of tasks, which included supporting the Royal Marines ashore, as well as being escort to the helicopter carrier . She returned to her home base at Portsmouth in May. In April 2004, "Edinburgh" deployed to the Mediterranean, where she first joined Standing Naval Force Mediterranean (STANAVFORMED), and while there she took part in Operation Active Endeavour, designed to monitor sea lanes as part of the War on Terror.