View source for Future of the Royal Navy

{{Short description|none}}
<!-- "none" is preferred when the title is sufficiently descriptive; see [[WP:SDNONE]] -->
{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2020}}
{{Use British English|date=August 2021}}
{{Royal Navy}}
Future planning of the Royal Navy's capabilities is set through periodic [[Defence Review]]s carried out by the British Government. 

In July 2024, the newly elected [[Labour Party (UK)|Labour]] Government launched a Strategic Defence Review that is to be released in the first half of 2025. Defence Secretary [[John Healey]] is to oversee the review.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-launches-root-and-branch-review-of-uk-armed-forces|title=New era for defence: government launches root and branch review of UK Armed Forces |publisher=Ministry of Defence |date=16 July 2024 |access-date=6 August 2024 }}</ref> 

The [[National Audit Office (United Kingdom)|National Audit Office]] (NAO) has, for a considerable period of time, described the Ministry of Defence's equipment plan as "unaffordable".<ref>{{Cite web |title=UK MoD is wasting billions of dollars in taxpayers money, according to Labour dossier |url=https://www.defenceprocurementinternational.com/features/maritime/uk-mod-is-wasting-billions-of-dollars-in-taxpayers-money-according-to-labours-dossier-of-waste |access-date=2023-10-26 |website=www.defenceprocurementinternational.com |language=en-gb |archive-date=26 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231026003331/https://www.defenceprocurementinternational.com/features/maritime/uk-mod-is-wasting-billions-of-dollars-in-taxpayers-money-according-to-labours-dossier-of-waste |url-status=live }}</ref> As late as January 2021 the NAO reported that the Royal Navy had the largest shortfall of the three services at £4.3 billion over the 2020 to 2030 period.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/uk-defence-equipment-plan-remains-unaffordable/|title=UK defence equipment plan 'remains unaffordable'|date=12 January 2021|first=George|last=Allison|work=UK Defence Journal|access-date=16 September 2021|archive-date=16 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211016143526/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/uk-defence-equipment-plan-remains-unaffordable/|url-status=live}}</ref> To address some of these gaps, in November 2020, Prime Minister [[Boris Johnson]] announced the first outcome of the defence review by pledging increased funding in the range of £16.5 billion over four years to stabilise the defence budget and to provide new funding for space, cyber and research activities. A plan to construct a new class of frigate, the [[Type 32 frigate]], was also announced with five vessels envisaged and likely entering service starting in the early 2030s, though many other details about the program were undecided, even following publication of the March 2021 defence white paper.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2020/11/19/uk-to-boost-defense-budget-by-219-billion-heres-who-benefits-and-loses-out/|title=UK to boost defense budget by $21.9 billion. Here's who benefits — and loses out.|first=Andrew|last=Chuter|date=19 November 2020|website=Defense News}}</ref> The previous government planned to increase the Royal Navy's fleet to 24 frigates and destroyers, perhaps achieving that objective by the mid-2030s.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navylookout.com/when-will-the-royal-navy-have-24-frigates-and-destroyers/|title=When will the Royal Navy have 24 frigates and destroyers?|date=17 March 2021|website=Navy Lookout|access-date=23 March 2021|archive-date=17 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210317144952/https://www.navylookout.com/when-will-the-royal-navy-have-24-frigates-and-destroyers/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In March 2023, a further £5 billion in funding was announced as part of a defence policy "refresh" exercise to "help replenish and bolster vital ammunition stocks, modernise the UK's nuclear enterprise and fund the next phase of the AUKUS submarine programme".<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/pm-announces-major-defence-investment-in-launch-of-integrated-review-refresh#:~:text=The%202023%20Integrated%20Review%20Refresh,of%20the%20AUKUS%20submarine%20programme. |title=PM announces major defence investment in launch of Integrated Review Refresh |date=13 March 2023 |website=Gov.UK |access-date=15 March 2023 |archive-date=15 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230315001232/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/pm-announces-major-defence-investment-in-launch-of-integrated-review-refresh#:~:text=The%202023%20Integrated%20Review%20Refresh,of%20the%20AUKUS%20submarine%20programme. |url-status=live }}</ref> However, in December 2023 the NAO again described the MoD's defence plan for 2023-2033 as "unaffordable" and some £16.9 billion over budget. Forecast costs for the Navy were reported to have risen by £16.4 billion (or 41%). Spending decisions were expected to be made during the next spending review in 2024, at which point more funding might be allocated or other decisions taken.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nao.org.uk/reports/equipment-plan-2023-to-2033/|title=The Equipment Plan 2023 to 2033|date=4 December 2023|website=National Audit Office|access-date=5 December 2023|archive-date=5 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231205133926/https://www.nao.org.uk/reports/equipment-plan-2023-to-2033/|url-status=live}}</ref> In April 2024, Conservative Prime Minister [[Rishi Sunak]] pledged to increase defence spending to 2.5 percent of GDP (or £81 billion) by 2030. The Labour Party pledged to raise defence spending to the same level.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-68880171 |title=Rishi Sunak vows to boost UK defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030 |date=23 April 2024|website=BBC |last1=Seddon |first1=Paul |last2=Beale |first2=Jonathan |access-date=28 May 2024}}</ref>

{{As of|2023|2}}, the following major vessels are under construction: the final two of seven {{sclass|Astute|submarine|1}}s; the first three of four [[Dreadnought-class submarine|''Dreadnought''-class]] ballistic missile submarines, the first four<ref>{{Cite web|title=Construction begins on Royal Navy's fourth Type 26 frigate - HMS Birmingham|url=https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/construction-begins-on-royal-navys-fourth-type-26-frigate-hms-birmingham|access-date=2021-06-30|website=www.baesystems.com|language=en|archive-date=4 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404205516/https://www.baesystems.com/en/article/construction-begins-on-royal-navys-fourth-type-26-frigate-hms-birmingham|url-status=live}}</ref> of eight [[Type 26 frigate]]s; and three of the five [[Type 31 frigate]]s. Additional replenishment vessels were on order for the [[Royal Fleet Auxiliary]].

==Ships under construction==

===Royal Navy===
The following is a list of vessels planned, ordered, under construction or undergoing sea trials within the United Kingdom, and destined for the Royal Navy:
{|class="wikitable" style="margin:auto; width:100%;"
|- 
! style="text-align:center; width:18%;"|Class
! style="text-align:center; width:12%;"|Ship
! style="text-align:center; width:10%;"|Pennant No.
! style="text-align:center; width:18%;"|Builders
! style="text-align:center; width:12%;"|Displacement 
! style="text-align:center; width:12%;"|Type
! style="text-align:center; width:10%;"|Homeport
! style="text-align:center; width:8%;"|Commissioning
|- 
! rowspan="3"| {{sclass|Astute|submarine|4}}
|-
| {{HMS|Agamemnon|S124|2}} || S124 || 2022 rowspan=7|BAE Systems, [[Barrow-in-Furness]] || rowspan=2|7,400 tonnes || rowspan=2|Fleet submarine || rowspan=2|Clyde || Expected late 2025<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/6th-astute-class-submarine-hms-agamemnon-rolled-out-of-the-build-hall/ |title=6th Astute class submarine HMS Agamemnon rolled out of the build hall |date=1 October 2024 |website=Navy Lookout |access-date=1 October 2024  }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Lords/2020-04-29/HL3735/ |title=Ministry of Defence Astute Class Submarines |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=29 April 2020 |website=parliament.uk |publisher=UK Hansard |access-date=13 May 2020 |quote=HMS AUDACIOUS was commissioned into the Royal Navy on 3 April 2020 |archive-date=13 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200713142212/https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Lords/2020-04-29/HL3735/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Delivery">{{cite web|url=https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2020-01-30/10350/|title=Ministry of Defence HMS Audacious|date=15 February 2020|access-date=13 May 2020|archive-date=15 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200215132407/https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2020-01-30/10350/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-05-18|title=Royal Navy Submarine HMS Anson Launched by BAE Systems|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/05/royal-navy-submarine-hms-anson-launched-by-bae-systems/|access-date=2021-05-21|website=Naval News|language=en-US|archive-date=21 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210521085216/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/05/royal-navy-submarine-hms-anson-launched-by-bae-systems/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="auto3">{{cite news|title=The Royal Navy's Astute class submarines: Part 1 – development and delivery|url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-royal-navys-astute-class-submarines-part-1-development-and-delivery/|access-date=9 January 2023|date=9 January 2023|website=Navy Lookout|archive-date=9 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230109074926/https://www.navylookout.com/the-royal-navys-astute-class-submarines-part-1-development-and-delivery/|url-status=live}}</ref>
|- 
| {{HMS|Agincourt|S125|2}} || S125 || Expected late 2026<ref name="theyworkforyou1">{{cite web |author=a few days |url=https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2020-01-30.10350.h&s=c |title=HMS Audacious: 6 Feb 2020: Hansard Written Answers |publisher=TheyWorkForYou |date=2020-02-06 |access-date=2020-05-12 |archive-date=28 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210128125336/https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2020-01-30.10350.h&s=c |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="auto3"/>
|-
! rowspan="4"| {{sclass|Dreadnought|submarine|4}}
| {{HMS|Dreadnought|Dreadnought-class submarine|2}} ||  || rowspan=4|17,200 tonnes || rowspan=4|Ballistic missile submarine || rowspan=4|Clyde || Expected early 2030s<ref name="theyworkforyou1"/> 
|-
| ''Valiant'' ||  ||  TBC
|-
| ''Warspite'' ||  ||  TBC
|-
| ''King George VI'' ||  ||  TBC
|-
! rowspan="1" | [[SSN-AUKUS|''AUKUS'' class]] 
|
TBC

|| || rowspan=1|10,000+ tonnes || rowspan=1|Fleet submarine || rowspan="1" |Clyde || From late 2030s<ref>{{OGL-attribution|version=3.0|{{cite web |author1=[[Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)|Ministry of Defence]] |author2=[[Defence Nuclear Organisation]] |title=The AUKUS Nuclear Powered-Submarine Pathway: A Partnership for the Future |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1142588/The_AUKUS_nuclear_powered_submarine_pathway_a_partnership_for_the_future.pdf |access-date=17 March 2023 |date=14 March 2023 |ref={{harvid|Ministry of Defence|2023}} |pages=7, 28 |archive-date=15 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230315033128/https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1142588/The_AUKUS_nuclear_powered_submarine_pathway_a_partnership_for_the_future.pdf |url-status=live }}}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Heappey |first=James |date=6 February 2020 |title=HMS Audacious - Ministry of Defence written question – answered on 6th February 2020 |url=https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2020-01-30.10350.h |access-date=4 October 2021 |website=www.theyworkforyou.com |quote=We remain committed to delivering all seven Astute boats by the end of 2026 |archive-date=20 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221220175354/https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2020-01-30.10350.h |url-status=live }}</ref> 
|-
! rowspan="8" | [[Type 26 frigate|Type 26]]
| {{HMS|Glasgow|Type 26 frigate|2}} || F88<ref name="city pennant">{{cite book |last1=Warlow |first1=Ben |last2=Bush |first2=Steve |title=Pendant Numbers of the Royal Navy |date=2021 |publisher=Seaforth Publishing |isbn=978-1-5267-9378-2 |page=xii}}</ref> ||rowspan=8| BAE Systems, Glasgow ||rowspan=8| 7,700 tonnes || rowspan="8" | Multi-mission frigate ||rowspan=8| Devonport|| Expected late 2026 or early 2027<ref>{{cite web |last1=Lookout |first1=Naval |title=In focus: Delivering the Type 26 Frigates &#124; Navy Lookout |url=https://www.navylookout.com/in-focus-delivering-the-type-26-frigates/ |website=Naval Lookout |date=12 December 2022 |access-date=15 December 2022 |archive-date=15 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221215134700/https://www.navylookout.com/in-focus-delivering-the-type-26-frigates/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| {{HMS|Cardiff|Type 26 frigate|2}} || F89<ref name="city pennant" /> || rowspan=7| From 2028<ref name="auto5">{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/in-focus-delivering-the-type-26-frigates/ | title=In focus: Delivering the Type 26 Frigates &#124; Navy Lookout | date=12 December 2022 | access-date=15 December 2022 | archive-date=15 December 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221215134700/https://www.navylookout.com/in-focus-delivering-the-type-26-frigates/ | url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| {{HMS|Belfast|Type 26 frigate|2}} || F90<ref name="city pennant" />
|-
| {{HMS|Birmingham|Type 26 frigate|2}} || 
|-
| {{HMS|Sheffield|Type 26 frigate|2}} || 
|-
| {{HMS|Newcastle|Type 26 frigate|2}} || 
|-
| {{HMS|Edinburgh|Type 26 frigate|2}} ||
|-
| {{HMS|London|Type 26 frigate|2}} || 
|-
! rowspan="5" | [[Type 31 frigate|Type 31]]
| {{HMS|Venturer|Type 31 frigate|2}} ||  ||rowspan=5| Babcock International, [[Rosyth]] ||rowspan=5| 5,700 tonnes ||rowspan=5| General-purpose frigate ||rowspan=5| Portsmouth|| Expected 2026/27<ref>{{cite web |website=Navy Lookout |date=2 August 2024 |title=Royal Navy frigate strength to get worse before it gets better |url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-frigate-strength-to-get-worse-before-it-gets-better/ |access-date=4 August 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Lookout |first1=Navy |url=https://www.navylookout.com/developing-the-type-31-frigate/ |website=Navy Lookout |title=Developing the Type 31 frigate |date=16 January 2023 |access-date=18 January 2023 |archive-date=18 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230118211337/https://www.navylookout.com/developing-the-type-31-frigate/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
| {{HMS|Active|Type 31 frigate|2}} ||  || rowspan=4| Last ship in 2030<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-formally-announces-the-names-of-the-inspiration-class-type-31-frigates/|title=Royal Navy formally announces the names of the 'inspiration class' Type 31 frigates &#124; Navy Lookout|date=19 May 2021|access-date=19 May 2021|archive-date=29 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029180856/https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-formally-announces-the-names-of-the-inspiration-class-type-31-frigates/|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| {{HMS|Formidable|Type 31 frigate|2}} ||
|-
| {{HMS|Bulldog|Type 31 frigate|2}}
|-
| {{HMS|Campbeltown|Type 31 frigate|2}} || 
|-
|}

===Royal Fleet Auxiliary===
The following is a list of vessels ordered for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary:
{|class="wikitable" style="margin:auto; width:100%;"
|- 
! style="text-align:center; width:18%;"|Class
! style="text-align:center; width:12%;"|Ship
! style="text-align:center; width:10%;"|Pennant No.
! style="text-align:center; width:18%;"|Builders
! style="text-align:center; width:12%;"|Displacement 
! style="text-align:center; width:12%;"|Type
! style="text-align:center; width:10%;"|Homeport
! style="text-align:center; width:8%;"|Commissioning
|- 
! rowspan="4"| [[Fleet Solid Support Ship Programme|Fleet Solid Support Ship]]
|-
| TBC|| TBC || 2022 rowspan=3|[[Harland & Wolff]], [[BMT Group]] and [[Navantia|Navantia UK]]|| rowspan=3|c. 39,000 tonnes<ref>{{cite web | url=https://twitter.com/NavyLookout/status/1618244004138590211 | title=The new Fleet Solid Support ships will be 39,000 tonnes (full load) - similar to Tide class tankers Navy Lookout | access-date=25 January 2023 | archive-date=26 March 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326024529/https://twitter.com/NavyLookout/status/1618244004138590211 | url-status=live }}</ref> || rowspan=3|Fleet Solid Support Ship || rowspan=3|Devonport || ''Expected 2031''<ref name="auto8">{{Cite web|url=https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2023-06-13.HL8463.h&s=Fleet+Solid+Support|title=Fleet Solid Support Ships: Procurement Ministry of Defence written question – answered on 27 June 2023|website=They Work for you|date=27 June 2023|access-date=28 June 2023|archive-date=28 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230628094558/https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2023-06-13.HL8463.h&s=Fleet+Solid+Support|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="auto4">{{cite web | url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2023/01/uk-mod-signs-contract-with-team-resolute-for-3-logistic-ships-for-the-royal-navy/ | title=UK MoD signs contract with Team Resolute for 3 logistic ships for the Royal Navy | date=18 January 2023 | access-date=18 January 2023 | archive-date=18 January 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230118145154/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2023/01/uk-mod-signs-contract-with-team-resolute-for-3-logistic-ships-for-the-royal-navy/ | url-status=live }}</ref>
|- 
| TBC || TBC || ''Expected early 2030s''<ref name="auto4"/>
|- 
| TBC || TBC || ''Expected early 2030s''<ref name="auto4"/>
|}

* {{small|''Note: "TBC" means "[[wikt:TBC|to be confirmed]]"''}}

==Ships==

===Destroyers and frigates===
{{main|Type 26 frigate|Type 31 frigate|Type 32 frigate|Type 83 destroyer}}

In the [[Strategic Defence and Security Review 2010|2010 Strategic Defence and Security Review]] (SDSR) a replacement programme was authorised for the Navy's fleet of thirteen [[Type 23 frigate]]s. In 2012, [[BAE Systems Naval Ships]] was awarded a contract to design the replacement, known as the [[Global Combat Ship|Type 26 Global Combat Ship (GCS)]]. It was planned that two variants of the class would be built: five general purpose frigates and eight anti-submarine warfare frigates. According to estimates as of 2022, the first Type 26 frigate is to commission in late 2026 and the last commissioning in around 2034, whilst the Type 23s are gradually phased out.<ref name="auto5"/><ref name="savetheroyalnavy2">{{cite web |url=https://www.savetheroyalnavy.org/only-seven-years-to-wait-until-the-royal-navy-gets-a-new-frigate/ |title=Only seven years to wait until the Royal Navy gets a new frigate |publisher=Save the Royal Navy |date=2020-02-08 |access-date=2020-05-12 |archive-date=13 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200213112737/https://www.savetheroyalnavy.org/only-seven-years-to-wait-until-the-royal-navy-gets-a-new-frigate/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Thomas |first=Richard |url=https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/naval-warfare/fleet-escort-cuts-impending-uks-frigate-maths-fail/ |title=Fleet escort cuts impending as UK's frigate maths fails to add up - Naval Warfare |publisher=Shephard Media |date=2020-01-22 |access-date=2020-05-12 |archive-date=13 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200213112740/https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/naval-warfare/fleet-escort-cuts-impending-uks-frigate-maths-fail/ |url-status=live }}</ref> However, in October 2022, the Secretary of Defence, Ben Wallace, indicated that Initial Operating Capability for the first ship in the class would only be reached in 2028.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/naval-weapons/latest/ioc-for-uk-royal-navys-first-in-class-type-26-frigate-to-be-delayed-by-12-months | title=IOC for UK Royal Navy's first-in-class Type 26 frigate to be delayed by 12 months | date=4 November 2022 | access-date=4 November 2022 | archive-date=4 November 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221104193603/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/naval-weapons/latest/ioc-for-uk-royal-navys-first-in-class-type-26-frigate-to-be-delayed-by-12-months | url-status=live }}</ref> Eight Type 26 frigates will be built. The five remaining ships will be covered by a new class of lighter, flexible general purpose frigate, known as the [[Type 31 frigate|Type 31e frigate]] or General Purpose Frigate (GPFF).<ref>{{cite news|title=UK looks to outline requirement for new General Purpose Frigate|url=http://www.janes.com/article/59643/uk-looks-to-outline-requirement-for-new-general-purpose-frigate|access-date=20 April 2016|agency=IHS Janes'|date=20 April 2016|archive-date=17 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170217134725/http://www.janes.com/article/59643/uk-looks-to-outline-requirement-for-new-general-purpose-frigate|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/naval/ships/2016/02/12/type-31-royal-navy-general-purpose-frigate/80281358/ |title=New Royal Navy general purpose frigate to be known as Type 31 |last=Chuter |first=Andrew |website=DefenseNews |date=12 February 2016 |access-date=18 March 2016}}{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>

The slower than planned introduction of both the Type 26 and Type 31, coupled with the pending retirement dates for the Type 23, is creating a risk that Royal Navy frigate numbers could decline in the 2020s to as few as 8 frigates. Reductions were partly confirmed in the 2021 defence white paper with the announcement that two of the Type 23s would, in fact, be retired early.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/two-frigates-to-be-scrapped-early/|title=Two frigates to be scrapped early|date=22 March 2021|access-date=23 March 2021|archive-date=23 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210323020811/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/two-frigates-to-be-scrapped-early/|url-status=live}}</ref> Nevertheless, the at sea availability of ships (both destroyers and frigates) within this smaller force was projected as likely increasing as vessels completed their life extension refits.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navylookout.com/progress-report-extending-the-life-of-royal-navys-type-23-frigates/|title=Progress report – extending the life of Royal Navy's Type 23 frigates &#124; Navy Lookout|date=4 November 2020|access-date=1 April 2021|archive-date=19 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419001932/https://www.navylookout.com/progress-report-extending-the-life-of-royal-navys-type-23-frigates/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/type-45-destroyers-to-complete-power-plant-repairs-by-mid-2020s/|title=Type 45 Destroyers to complete power plant repairs by 'mid-2020s'|date=16 January 2020|access-date=1 April 2021|archive-date=13 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210413104829/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/type-45-destroyers-to-complete-power-plant-repairs-by-mid-2020s/|url-status=live}}</ref> By the latter 2020s and 2030s it had been anticipated that overall numbers could rise again as the replacement vessels enter service. In 2021 in a written answer provided to the House of Commons Select Defence Committee, the First Sea Lord, Admiral Tony Radakin, suggested that older Type 23 frigates would be retained in service longer than anticipated in order to ensure that escort numbers did not fall below 17 ships (6 destroyers and 11 frigates) and start to rise back above 19 escorts starting in the latter 2020s.<ref>{{Cite web|url = https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/royal-navy-escort-fleet-to-return-above-19-warships-by-2026/|title = Royal Navy escort fleet to 'return above 19' warships by 2026|date = 24 November 2021|access-date = 25 November 2021|archive-date = 25 November 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211125145636/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/royal-navy-escort-fleet-to-return-above-19-warships-by-2026/|url-status = live}}</ref>
The objective of the 2021 white paper was to have 24 frigates and destroyers in service by the "early 2030s", though some argued that a date of 2035 was more likely.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navylookout.com/when-will-the-royal-navy-have-24-frigates-and-destroyers/|title=When will the Royal Navy have 24 frigates and destroyers? &#124; Navy Lookout|date=17 March 2021|access-date=23 March 2021|archive-date=17 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210317144952/https://www.navylookout.com/when-will-the-royal-navy-have-24-frigates-and-destroyers/|url-status=live}}</ref> This is to be achieved through the construction of yet another class of frigate, the [[Type 32 frigate|Type 32]].

However, as of 2023 the Royal Navy is experiencing significant recruiting challenges with a net drop of some 1,600 personnel (4 percent of the force) from mid-2022 to mid-2023. This was posing a significant problem in the ability of the navy to meet its commitments.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Royal Navy failing to get enough recruits into basic training |url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-failing-to-get-enough-recruits-into-basic-training/ |date=2 November 2023 |website=Navy Lookout |language=en|access-date=3 November 2023}}</ref> Reports in early 2024 suggested that this may in fact contribute to the early retirement of some vessels, including the oldest Type 23 frigates.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Britain to scrap two Royal Navy frigates say reports |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/britain-to-scrap-two-royal-navy-frigates-say-reports/ |last=Allison |first=George |date=5 January 2024 |website=UK Defence Journal |language=en|access-date=6 January 2024}}</ref> In May 2024, it was indicated that two frigates,  HMS ''Westminster'' and HMS ''Argyll'', would indeed be retired reducing the total number of active frigates to nine.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Allison |first=George |date=2024-05-14 |title=Two Royal Navy frigates to be retired|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/two-royal-navy-frigates-to-be-retired/ |access-date=2024-05-14 |work=UK Defence Journal |language=en-GB |issn=0307-1235}}</ref> In August 2024, it was reported that, at the start of her upkeep period, significant problems had been found in [[HMS Northumberland (F238)|HMS Northumberland]] and that she might now be "beyond economical repair". Were she to be withdrawn from service, frigate numbers would fall to eight ships in total.<ref>{{cite web |website=Navy Lookout |date=2 August 2024 |title=Royal Navy frigate strength to get worse before it gets better |url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-frigate-strength-to-get-worse-before-it-gets-better/ |access-date=4 August 2024}}</ref>

In November 2020, the first decisions of the Integrated Review were announced which included a pledge to construct the Type 32 frigate.<ref name="19Nov">{{cite web |title=Integrated Review — in the House of Commons at 12:03 pm on 19th November 2020 |url=https://www.theyworkforyou.com/debates/?id=2020-11-19a.487.0&s=%22space+command%22#g487.1 |website=Hansard |access-date=20 November 2020}}</ref> No further details were included but the announcement was made in the context of restoring the United Kingdom as "the foremost naval power in Europe" and to "spur a shipbuilding renaissance".<ref name="19Nov"/> Later, the 2021 white paper indicated that the Type 32 was to be "designed to protect territorial waters, provide persistent presence overseas and support our [[Littoral Response Group]]s". In November 2020, the Ministry of Defence described the ship as a platform for autonomous systems, such as anti-submarine warfare and mine countermeasures.<ref>{{Cite web|url = https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/the-type-32-frigate-what-do-we-know/|title = The Type 32 Frigate – What do we know?|date = 23 March 2021|access-date = 23 March 2021|archive-date = 23 March 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210323091243/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/the-type-32-frigate-what-do-we-know/|url-status = live}}</ref> As of late 2022, the Type 32 frigate project was reported to be facing significant funding pressures. The November 2022 report of the National Audit Office on ''The Equipment Plan 2022-2032'' stated that in July 2022 "Navy Command withdrew its plans for Type 32 frigates and MRSS because of concerns about unaffordability. The revised costing profile is likely to be significantly higher".<ref name="auto1">[https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/NAO-Report-The-equipment-plan-2022-to-2032.pdf NAO Report. The equipment plan 2022 to 2023] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221129131426/https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/NAO-Report-The-equipment-plan-2022-to-2032.pdf |date=29 November 2022 }} nao.org.uk</ref>

The March 2021 defence white paper also announced that a new class of air defence destroyer, the [[Type 83 destroyer|Type 83]], would be designed to replace the [[Type 45 destroyer]] with the aim of achieving initial delivery in the latter 2030s.<ref name="navylookout.com">{{Cite web|url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-defence-command-paper-and-the-future-of-the-royal-navy/|title=The Defence Command Paper and the future of the Royal Navy &#124; Navy Lookout|date=22 March 2021|access-date=23 March 2021|archive-date=13 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220113143431/https://www.navylookout.com/the-defence-command-paper-and-the-future-of-the-royal-navy/|url-status=live}}</ref> In the interim, in July 2021 it was announced that the ''Type-45'' destroyers would be upgraded through the addition of 24 cells for the [[Sea Ceptor]] surface-to-air missile system. The ''Type-45s'' were reported as likely to be incrementally upgraded between 2026 and 2032.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navys-type-45-destroyers-reaching-their-full-potential-with-addition-of-sea-ceptor-missiles/|title=Royal Navy's Type 45 destroyers – reaching their full potential with addition of Sea Ceptor missiles &#124; Navy Lookout|date=6 July 2021|access-date=6 July 2021|archive-date=30 May 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230530003226/https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navys-type-45-destroyers-reaching-their-full-potential-with-addition-of-sea-ceptor-missiles/|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Mine countermeasures and Hydrographic Capability (MHC)===
{{anchor|Black Swan}}
[[File:FUTURE MINE HUNTING SYSTEM COMES TO CLYDE MOD 45166088.jpg|thumb|RNMB ''Harrier'' on the Clyde in 2020]]
The 2015 SDSR specified that only 12 mine-counter measure vessels were planned to exist in Joint Force 2025.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478933/52309_Cm_9161_NSS_SD_Review_web_only.pdf |title=National Security Strategy and Strategic Defence and Security Review 2015 |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=23 November 2015 |website=gov.uk |publisher=UK Cabinet Office |access-date=8 November 2020 |archive-date=24 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151124082813/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478933/52309_Cm_9161_NSS_SD_Review_web_only.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> The three oldest [[Sandown-class minehunter|''Sandown''-class minehunters]] were decommissioned.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/492800/20150118-SDSR_Factsheets_1_to_17_ver_13.pdf |title=SDSR 2015 defence fact sheets |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=15 January 2016 |website=gov.uk |publisher=UK Ministry of Defence |access-date=8 November 2020 |archive-date=30 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160130202605/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/492800/20150118-SDSR_Factsheets_1_to_17_ver_13.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> At one point it was anticipated that the UK and France would collaborate on a Maritime Mine Counter Measures project.<ref name="ReferenceB">{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/505177/UKFRS_security_and_defence_final_2_March.pdf |title=UK-France Summit 2016: documents Security and defence annex |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=3 March 2016 |website=gov.uk |publisher=10 Downing Street |access-date=8 November 2020 |archive-date=7 October 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161007172215/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/505177/UKFRS_security_and_defence_final_2_March.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> At DESI 2017, the First Sea Lord mentioned that the Royal Navy aimed to accelerate the incremental delivery of future mine countermeasures and hydrographic capability (MHC) programme.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/dsei-2017-naval-technology-zone | title=DSEI 2017 naval technology zone | date=12 September 2017 | access-date=12 September 2017 | archive-date=12 September 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170912125816/https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/dsei-2017-naval-technology-zone | url-status=live }}</ref>

All of these plans notwithstanding, in 2020 the parliamentary National Audit Office (NAO) noted that no funding had been allocated in the 2019 to 2029 period to replace the Navy's mine countermeasures capability.<ref name="autogenerated1">{{cite web |url=https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/The-Equipment-Plan-2019-to-2029.pdf |title=The Equipment Plan 2019 to 2029 |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=27 February 2019 |website=nao.org.uk |publisher=National Audit Office |access-date=8 November 2020 |archive-date=16 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220316075110/https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/The-Equipment-Plan-2019-to-2029.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> The 2021 defence white paper subsequently confirmed that all existing MCMV vessels would be phased out in the 2020s and replaced by autonomous systems.<ref name="navylookout.com"/>

Preliminary measures were taken to equip the Royal navy with autonomous minehunting systems and in May 2015, a contract was signed with [[Atlas Elektronik]] UK to supply [[Unmanned surface vessel]]s (USVs) of their ARCIMS system for autonomous mine clearance.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/12962615.jobs-boost-as-winfrith-firm-strikes-28m-deal-with-royal-navy-to-supply-sophisticated-minesweeping-vessels/ | title=Jobs boost as Winfrith firm strikes £28m deal with Royal Navy to supply sophisticated minesweeping vessels | first=Martin | last=Lea | date=21 May 2015 | newspaper=Dorset Echo | access-date=18 May 2021 | archive-date=18 May 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210518222639/https://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/12962615.jobs-boost-as-winfrith-firm-strikes-28m-deal-with-royal-navy-to-supply-sophisticated-minesweeping-vessels/ | url-status=live }}</ref> The first boat delivered under this contract was the optionally-manned [[Sea-class work boat#Autonomous minehunter|RNMB ''Hazard'']], which took part in Exercise Unmanned Warrior 16.<ref>{{cite journal | url= https://www.mcdoa.org.uk/Minewarfare_and_Diving_Magazine_Summer_2018.pdf#page=42 | title= What is MASTT? | first= Lt Cdr J | last= Hunnibell | journal= Mine Warfare and Diving | volume= Summer 2018 | format= PDF | access-date= 18 May 2021 | archive-date= 18 May 2021 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210518222641/https://www.mcdoa.org.uk/Minewarfare_and_Diving_Magazine_Summer_2018.pdf#page=42 | url-status= live }}<!-- has lots more on future mine warfare plans --></ref> She was followed by the autonomous RNMB ''Hussar'' in 2018<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/taking-on-the-big-guns-in-bid-to-build-frigate-r253g206r | title=Taking on the big guns in bid to build frigate | first=Robert | last=Lea | date=21 January 2019 | newspaper=The Times | access-date=18 May 2021 | archive-date=18 May 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210518222639/https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/taking-on-the-big-guns-in-bid-to-build-frigate-r253g206r | url-status=live }}</ref> and RNMB ''Harrier'' in August 2020, by which time they came under Project Wilton within the First Mine Counter Measures Squadron at [[HMNB Clyde]].<ref name=RN20200821>{{cite web | url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/august/21/20200821-future-mine-hunting-system-comes-to-clyde | title=Future mine hunting system comes to Clyde | date=21 August 2020 | publisher=Royal Navy | access-date=18 May 2021 | archive-date=30 June 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210630173509/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/august/21/20200821-future-mine-hunting-system-comes-to-clyde | url-status=live }}</ref> RNMB ''Hebe'', which arrived in 2021, is longer - {{convert|15|m|ft}} instead of {{convert|11|m|ft}} - to accommodate a Portable Operations Centre Afloat that allows her to control ''Harrier'' and ''Hazard'' while also co-ordinating autonomous operations.<ref name=RN20200821 />

Further components in the Mine Hunting Capability (MHC) Program include the U.K.-French MCM program, which is to deliver four sets of systems (each of which includes: a Portable Operation Center (POC), Two Thales / L3Harris 12-metre Unmanned Surface Vessels - USVs -, a towed Synthetic Aperture Multiviews (T-SAM) vehicle and a Multi-Shot Mine Neutralisation System (MuMNS)).<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/autonomous-systems-the-future-of-royal-navy-mine-warfare/ |title=Autonomous systems – the future of Royal Navy mine warfare |website=Navy Lookout |date=26 May 2021 |access-date=21 September 2023 |archive-date=30 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230530235552/https://www.navylookout.com/autonomous-systems-the-future-of-royal-navy-mine-warfare/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In April 2022 a further contract was awarded to AEUK to supply nine SeaCat UUVs as part of the MHC project. SeaCat can be deployed from a variety of platforms down to the size of the [[Sea-class workboat]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-autonomous-mine-hunting-at-the-sharp-end/ |title=Royal Navy autonomous mine hunting at the sharp end |website=Navy Lookout |date=30 March 2023 |access-date=21 September 2023 |archive-date=3 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003231357/https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-autonomous-mine-hunting-at-the-sharp-end/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.atlas-elektronik.com/solutions/unmanned-naval-systems/seacat.html |title=SeaCat One AUV - Many Tasks |website=Atlas Elektronik |access-date=21 September 2023 |archive-date=21 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230921175237/https://www.atlas-elektronik.com/solutions/unmanned-naval-systems/seacat.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

Following on the Prime Minister's announcement in late 2020 of enhanced funding for the Ministry of Defence, Jeremy Quin, Minister of State for Defence Procurement, indicated on 30 November 2020, in response to a parliamentary question, that the envisaged Type 32 frigate would, in part, replace the current mine countermeasures ships and act as a "mothership" for the Navy's future unmanned mine countermeasures capabilities, as well as serving as a platform for anti-submarine warfare. Specifically, he said "... it is envisioned that Type 32 will be a platform for autonomous systems, adding to the Navy's capabilities for missions such as anti-submarine warfare and mine countermeasures".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2020/11/royal-navys-new-type-32-frigate-to-serve-as-unmanned-systems-mothership/|title=Royal Navy's New Type 32 Frigate to Serve as Unmanned Systems Mothership|date=30 November 2020|access-date=1 December 2020|archive-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130165859/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2020/11/royal-navys-new-type-32-frigate-to-serve-as-unmanned-systems-mothership/|url-status=live}}</ref> Type 32, as well as other platforms, could potentially carry a new autonomous system, which itself was announced on 26 November 2020 as being acquired through a joint production contract with France. This system employs three sets of equipment with each set comprising a portable operation centre, an autonomous surface vessel, towed sonar and a mine neutralization system.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://seawaves.com/?p=7346|title=New UK MCM Capability Announced – SeaWaves Magazine|access-date=2 December 2020|archive-date=28 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228004805/https://seawaves.com/?p=7346|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2023, as part of the MHC program, a commercial vessel, the former offshore support vessel MV ''Island Crown'', was acquired for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary to act as a trials platform to further develop the concept for using motherships to support autonomous mine hunting systems.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/12/uk-seeks-commercial-osv-to-act-as-blue-water-mine-warfare-mothership/ | title=UK Seeks Commercial OSV to Act as Blue-Water Mine Warfare Mothership | date=20 December 2022 | access-date=20 December 2022 | archive-date=20 December 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221220084221/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/12/uk-seeks-commercial-osv-to-act-as-blue-water-mine-warfare-mothership/ | url-status=live }}</ref> The new vessel, named [[RFA Stirling Castle|RFA ''Stirling Castle'']],<ref>{{cite tweet |url=https://twitter.com/NavyLookout/status/1635613501971394562?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet |title=Former MV Island Crown, currently in Devonport being converted into a mothership to support RN autonmous mine warfare systems is to be re-named: RFA Stirling Castle |number=1635613501971394562 |user=NavyLookout |date=14 March 2023 |access-date=14 March 2023}}</ref> was to be based at the [[HMNB Clyde|Clyde naval base]].<ref name="mross">{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/uk-purchases-commercial-vessel-for-conversion-to-ocean-surveillance-ship/ | title=UK purchases commercial vessel for conversion to ocean surveillance ship; Navy Lookout | date=17 January 2023 | access-date=17 January 2023 | archive-date=17 January 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230117203819/https://www.navylookout.com/uk-purchases-commercial-vessel-for-conversion-to-ocean-surveillance-ship/ | url-status=live }}</ref> The ship was purchased for 40 million pounds and arrived at [[HMNB Devonport]] for a quick conversion to the role in January 2023. In due course up to three additional ships will also be acquired for the mine countermeasures command and support role,<ref name="Navy Lookout">{{cite news |title=Up close with RFA Stirling Castle – first of the navy's new motherships |url=https://www.navylookout.com/up-close-with-rfa-stirling-castle-first-of-the-navys-new-motherships/ |access-date=4 July 2023 |work=Navy Lookout |date=4 July 2023 |archive-date=4 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230704114319/https://www.navylookout.com/up-close-with-rfa-stirling-castle-first-of-the-navys-new-motherships/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="auto2">{{cite news |title=Why has the Royal Navy decommissioned 6 ships in a year? |url=https://www.navylookout.com/why-has-the-royal-navy-decommissioned-6-ships-in-a-year/ |access-date=24 March 2023 |work=Navy Lookout |date=23 March 2023 |archive-date=24 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230324104636/https://www.navylookout.com/why-has-the-royal-navy-decommissioned-6-ships-in-a-year/ |url-status=live }}</ref> one of which is intended to replace [[RFA Cardigan Bay|RFA ''Cardigan Bay'']] and some of the other vessels in [[9th Mine Counter-Measures Squadron]] operating from [[HMS Jufair|HMS ''Jufair'']] in Bahrain. ''Cardigan Bay'' would then be returned to a primary amphibious operations role.<ref name="auto7">{{cite news |title=Mothership to support autonomous mine hunting systems arrives in the UK |url=https://www.navylookout.com/mothership-to-support-autonomous-mine-hunting-systems-arrives-in-the-uk/ |access-date=30 January 2023 |work=Navy Lookout |date=30 January 2023 |archive-date=30 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230130095521/https://www.navylookout.com/mothership-to-support-autonomous-mine-hunting-systems-arrives-in-the-uk/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The replacement vessels may either be conversions of existing commercial vessels or, as reportedly preferred by the navy, new-build ships.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-wants-three-new-build-mine-hunting-motherships/ | title=The Royal Navy wants three new-build mine hunting motherships |website=Navy Lookout | date=24 June 2024 | access-date=24 June 2024}}</ref>

===Future amphibious capability===
The 2021 defence white paper outlined a proposal related to the composition of the Royal Navy's future amphibious capability. It was subsequently indicated that Navy's [[Albion-class landing platform dock|Albion-class assault ships]], as well as the Royal Fleet Auxiliary's [[Bay-class landing ship]]s and [[RFA Argus]], would be replaced by a new class of up to six [[Multi-role support ship (United Kingdom)|Multi Role Support Ships (MRSS)]].<ref name="ukdefencejournal.org.uk">{{Cite web|url = https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/the-future-multi-role-support-ships/|title = The future Multi Role Support Ships|date = 23 March 2021|access-date = 23 March 2021|archive-date = 23 March 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210323083519/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/the-future-multi-role-support-ships/|url-status = live}}</ref> These vessels superseded an earlier plan, announced by the former [[Secretary of State for Defence]] [[Gavin Williamson]] in February 2019, that the Royal Navy would purchase two commercial ships and develop them into Littoral Strike Ships.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/defence-news/2019/february/6817-uk-to-purchase-motherships-for-special-forces-and-marine-commandos.html| title=UK to purchase motherships for Special Forces and Marine commandos| newspaper=NavyRecognition| date=11 February 2019| access-date=11 February 2019| archive-date=12 February 2019| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190212011103/http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/defence-news/2019/february/6817-uk-to-purchase-motherships-for-special-forces-and-marine-commandos.html| url-status=live}}</ref>

The new MRSS vessels were envisaged as having the utility to transport and deliver troops, vehicles, equipment and supplies from anywhere in the world in support of amphibious warfare and littoral manoeuvre. They were envisaged as incorporating a "mix of ship-to-shore offloading and logistics capabilities allow support to naval operations through landing craft, boat operations, multi-spot aviation and replenishment at sea".<ref name="ukdefencejournal.org.uk"/> As of late 2022, the Multi-Role Support Ships were reported to be facing significant funding pressures. The November 2022 report of the National Audit Office on ''The Equipment Plan 2022-2032'' stated that in July 2022 "Navy Command withdrew its plans for Type 32 frigates and MRSS because of concerns about unaffordability. The revised costing profile is likely to be significantly higher".<ref name="auto1"/> In June 2023, the British and Dutch governments announced that the two countries would "explore opportunities" to jointly develop new specialist amphibious warships.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2023/june/30/20230630-anglo-dutch-50-years|title=UK and Netherlands to explore opportunities around new ships for amphibious operations|date=30 June 2023|website=Royal Navy|access-date=2 July 2023|archive-date=1 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230701065916/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2023/june/30/20230630-anglo-dutch-50-years|url-status=live}}</ref> However, that idea was subsequently dropped<ref>{{cite news |last1=Scott |first1=Richard |title=Netherlands outlines national route for new amphibious transport ship class |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/netherlands-outlines-national-route-for-new-amphibious-transport-ship-class |access-date=14 May 2024 |date=12 March 2024}}</ref> and in May 2024, the defence secretary, Grant Shapps, stated that the U.K. would build its vessels independently with three MRSS vessels to be built initially together with a plan for up to three additional ships.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/royal-navy-mod-confirms-6-new-royal-marines-support-ships-will-be-built-amid-russia-ukraine-war/ar-BB1mn1r3 |title=Royal Navy: MoD confirms 6 new Royal Marines support ships will be built amid Russia-Ukraine war |date=14 May 2024|website=Portsmouth News|access-date=14 May 2024 |last=Webb |first=Freddie}}</ref>

The 2021 white paper had announced that, in the interim, one of the three Bay-class vessels would be converted to a Littoral Strike Ship (LSS) and fitted with permanent hangars as well as incorporating other upgrades.<ref name="navylookout.com"/> In May 2022, it was indicated that ''Lyme Bay'' was likely to be selected for the role. However, the planned conversion was subsequently delayed,<ref name="auto"/> with, in July 2022, reports appearing that the future [[Littoral Response Group|Littoral Strike Role]] would now be assumed by [[RFA Argus (A135)|RFA ''Argus'']]. This followed an announcement that ''Argus'' would be retained until at least the early 2030s.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/rfa-argus-extended-in-service-beyond-2030/ |title=RFA Argus extended in service beyond 2030 |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=29 June 2022 |website=Navy Lookout |publisher= |access-date=23 July 2022 |quote= |archive-date=29 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220629214550/https://www.navylookout.com/rfa-argus-extended-in-service-beyond-2030/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-oldest-ship-in-the-royal-naval-service-to-become-the-new-littoral-strike-ship/ |title=The oldest ship in the Royal Naval Service to become the new Littoral Strike Ship |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=20 July 2022 |website=Navy Lookout |publisher= |access-date=23 July 2022 |quote= |archive-date=20 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220720161304/https://www.navylookout.com/the-oldest-ship-in-the-royal-naval-service-to-become-the-new-littoral-strike-ship/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In 2023 it was reported that the Royal Navy and Marines were seeking a replacement for the [[LCVP (United Kingdom)#LCVP Mk5|LCVP Mk 5 landing craft]] with the objective of securing service entry by 2027. The new ''Commando Insertion Craft'' were to have a low signature and be able to carry a strike team and small vehicle over a distance of 150 miles at a speed of 25 knots. A production contract was reportedly envisaged by 2025.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navalnews.com/event-news/cne-2023/2023/05/uk-plans-new-commando-insertion-craft-cic/ |title=UK Plans New Commando Insertion Craft (CIC) |date=30 May 2023 |website=Naval News |last=Scott |first=Richard |access-date=30 May 2023 |archive-date=30 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230530130303/https://www.navalnews.com/event-news/cne-2023/2023/05/uk-plans-new-commando-insertion-craft-cic/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Multi Role Ocean Surveillance ship===
{{main|Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance Ship}}
The 2021 defence white paper announced an intent to acquire a Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance ship (MROSS). The ship was planned to enter service in 2024 and was planned to be "fitted with advanced sensors and to carry a number of remotely operated and autonomous undersea drones to collect data to help protect our people and way of life with operations in UK and international waters".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-royal-navy-surveillance-ship-to-protect-the-uks-critical-underwater-infrastructure|title=New Royal Navy Surveillance Ship to protect the UK's critical underwater infrastructure|access-date=25 March 2021|archive-date=24 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210324164608/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-royal-navy-surveillance-ship-to-protect-the-uks-critical-underwater-infrastructure|url-status=live}}</ref> It was envisaged as necessary to protect undersea cable links to the UK.

In November 2022, the Ministry of Defence announced that the programme would be accelerated using funds gained through the cancellation of the National Flagship, a vessel which was to be used by [[Monarchy of the United Kingdom|the monarch]] and government officials to promote UK interests abroad. The MOD also confirmed that the first MROSS vessel would enter service with the [[Royal Fleet Auxiliary]] in 2023.<ref name="rfa">{{cite news |title=Royal Navy infrastructure protection ship accelerated |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/royal-navy-infrastructure-protection-ship-accelerated |access-date=8 November 2022 |work=[[GOV.UK]] |date=7 November 2022 |archive-date=7 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221107213714/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/royal-navy-infrastructure-protection-ship-accelerated |url-status=live }}</ref> In February 2023, the first vessel for this role - MV ''Topaz Tangaroa'' - was acquired. She was purchased for some 70 million pounds and converted to act as a mothership for autonomous systems and with military communications and light defensive armament added. She entered service as [[RFA Proteus|RFA ''Proteus'']] in October 2023.<ref>{{cite web |title=A guide to RFA Proteus – the UK's new seabed warfare vessel |url=https://www.navylookout.com/a-guide-to-rfa-proteus-the-uks-new-seabed-warfare-vessel/ |access-date=11 October 2023 |work=Navy Lookout |date=10 October 2023 |archive-date=12 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231012204510/https://www.navylookout.com/a-guide-to-rfa-proteus-the-uks-new-seabed-warfare-vessel/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A second MROS ship is envisaged, which may be a new build vessel and, as of 2023, is in the concept stage.<ref name="mross"/> In 2023 it was reported that the second ship in the series is likely to replace the current ocean survey ship, {{HMS|Scott|H131|6}}, which is to be extended in service until 2033.<ref>{{Cite web|url = https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2020/11/uk-to-restore-royal-navy-to-europes-most-powerful-maritime-force/|title = UK to restore Royal Navy to Europe's most powerful maritime force|date = 19 November 2020|access-date = 20 November 2020|archive-date = 20 November 2020|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20201120121242/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2020/11/uk-to-restore-royal-navy-to-europes-most-powerful-maritime-force/|url-status = live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-royal-navys-ocean-survey-vessel-hms-scott-life-extended-until-2033/ |title=The Royal Navy's ocean survey vessel HMS Scott life extended until 2033 |date=26 May 2023 |website=Navy Lookout |language=en |access-date=2023-05-26 |archive-date=26 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230526121358/https://www.navylookout.com/the-royal-navys-ocean-survey-vessel-hms-scott-life-extended-until-2033/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Unmanned Surface Vessels===
[[File:Madfox_Autonomous_Surface_Vehicle_MOD_45167738.jpg|thumb|Madfox ASV during trials in March 2020]]
Maritime Autonomy Surface Testbed (MAST) 13 is a collaboration between [[Defence Science and Technology Laboratory|DSTL]] and [[L3Harris Technologies]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Next generation unmanned system unveiled at DSEi |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/next-generation-unmanned-system-unveiled-at-dsei |work=Ministry of Defence UK |location=London |date=10 September 2019 |access-date=11 September 2019 |archive-date=10 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190910154810/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/next-generation-unmanned-system-unveiled-at-dsei |url-status=live }}</ref> In September 2019, Secretary of State for Defence Ben Wallace unveiled the MAST-13 (since renamed Madfox), an autonomous [[unmanned surface vehicle]] that would be attached to a [[BAE Systems]] PAC24 rigid inflatable boat and protect surface ships. {{HMS|Argyll|F231|6}} was involved in the demonstration.<ref>{{cite news |title=HMS Argyll involved with autonomous tech trials |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2019/september/11/190911-hms-argyll-dsei |work=Royal Navy |location=London |date=11 September 2019 |access-date=11 September 2019 |archive-date=20 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190920101111/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2019/september/11/190911-hms-argyll-dsei |url-status=live }}</ref> On 24 June 2020, the Royal Navy announced that the first unmanned Pacific 24 boat has been launched.<ref>{{cite news |title=ROYAL NAVY LAUNCHES 'SMART BOAT' FOR FLEET OF TOMORROW |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/june/24/200624-pac24-boat-trials |work=Royal Navy |date=24 June 2020 |access-date=26 June 2020 |archive-date=25 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200625114358/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/june/24/200624-pac24-boat-trials |url-status=live }}</ref> On 1 June 2021, the Madfox ASV successfully completed remote trials from range in the Solent, with personnel operating the vessel from the nearby coastline.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Sailors take control of crewless autonomous boat in latest trials|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/june/01/210601-latest-madfox-boat-trials|access-date=2021-06-01|website=www.royalnavy.mod.uk|language=en|archive-date=1 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210601144245/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/june/01/210601-latest-madfox-boat-trials|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Royal Fleet Auxiliary Ships===

The 2015 SDSR confirmed that three new large [[fleet solid support ship]]s would be acquired for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary under the [[Fleet Solid Support Ship Programme]] to replace the single-hulled {{ship|RFA|Fort Victoria|A387|6}}, which entered service in 1994, and {{ship|RFA|Fort Rosalie|A385|6}} and {{ship|RFA|Fort Austin|A386|6}} (both dating from the late 1970s). The ships were originally expected to enter service in the mid-2020s.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478933/52309_Cm_9161_NSS_SD_Review_web_only.pdf |title=National Security Strategy and Strategic Defence and Security Review 2015 |publisher=Government of the United Kingdom |access-date=4 March 2016 |page=29 |archive-date=24 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151124082813/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478933/52309_Cm_9161_NSS_SD_Review_web_only.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2015-11-25/17722/|title=Written questions and answers - Written questions, answers and statements - UK Parliament|accessdate=26 June 2023|archive-date=26 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200126182421/https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2015-11-25/17722/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2015-11-24/17447/|title=Written questions and answers - Written questions, answers and statements - UK Parliament|accessdate=26 June 2023|archive-date=27 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200227202306/https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2015-11-24/17447/|url-status=live}}</ref> The 2017 National Shipbuilding Strategy confirm this, noting that the Fleet Solid Support ships would be subjected to an international competition and be delivered by the mid-2020s.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/642420/NationalShipbuildingStrategy_lowres.pdf|title=National Shipbuilding Strategy|publisher=Ministry of Defence|access-date=7 September 2017|archive-date=7 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170907170222/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/642420/NationalShipbuildingStrategy_lowres.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>

However, late in 2019 this competition was stopped in the face of criticism that the competition permitted the potential construction of the ships outside the UK. The competition was anticipated as likely to be restarted with revised terms of reference.<ref>{{cite web |last=Lye |first=Harry |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/fleet-solid-support-ships/ |title=UK MOD puts brakes on Fleet Solid Support ship tenders |publisher=Naval-technology.com |date=2019-11-06 |access-date=2020-05-12 |archive-date=22 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200222213614/https://www.naval-technology.com/news/fleet-solid-support-ships/ |url-status=live }}</ref> On 21 October 2020, it was indicated that the competition for the FSS will be restarted in Spring 2021, covering three ships and it will be an international competition but the team must be a led by a British company.<ref>{{cite news |title=UK shipbuilding boosted by warship procurement |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-shipbuilding-boosted-by-warship-procurement |work=UK Ministry of Defence |location=London |date=21 October 2020 |access-date=21 October 2020 |archive-date=21 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201021121736/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-shipbuilding-boosted-by-warship-procurement |url-status=live }}</ref> The 2021 defence white paper confirmed that three FSSS would be built. In May 2021 the competition to build the ships was relaunched with the aim of taking a decision within two years.<ref>{{Cite web|url = https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/competition-for-three-fleet-solid-support-ships-launched/|title = Competition for three Fleet Solid Support ships launched|date = 21 May 2021|access-date = 21 May 2021|archive-date = 21 May 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210521130429/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/competition-for-three-fleet-solid-support-ships-launched/|url-status = live}}</ref> In July 2022, Rear-Admiral Paul Marshall, the Senior Responsible Officer for the Fleet Solid Support ship project, told the House of Commons Select Defence Committee that the first ship was envisaged for service entry in 2028 with the third entering service by 2032.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-changes-course-on-interim-anti-ship-missile-for-a-second-time/ | title=Royal Navy changes course on interim anti-ship missile for a second time &#124; Navy Lookout | date=6 July 2022 | access-date=7 July 2022 | archive-date=7 July 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220707144137/https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-changes-course-on-interim-anti-ship-missile-for-a-second-time/ | url-status=live }}</ref> However, subsequently the Ministry of Defence indicated that the first ship would in fact not be operational until 2031.<ref name="auto8"/> In November 2022 it was announced that Team Resolute (BMT, Harland & Wolff and Navantia) had been selected to build the ships with the start of construction anticipated in 2025.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/11/team-resolute-wins-contract-to-build-royal-navys-fss-ships/ | title=Team Resolute Wins Contract to Build Royal Navy's FSS Ships | date=16 November 2022 | access-date=16 November 2022 | archive-date=16 November 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221116140639/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/11/team-resolute-wins-contract-to-build-royal-navys-fss-ships/ | url-status=live }}</ref> The manufacturing contract, with a value of 1.6 billion pounds, was signed in January 2023.<ref name="auto4"/>

The SDSR did not mention any current plans to replace {{ship|RFA|Diligence|A132|6}} which at the time was scheduled to go out of service in 2020 but was laid up and advertised for sale in 2016, or {{ship|RFA|Argus|A135|6}} which was originally scheduled to go out of service in 2024.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/484506/2015-10463_FOI_Request.pdf |title=Ministry of Defence -Release of Information |publisher=Government of the United Kingdom |access-date=29 July 2016 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304223256/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/484506/2015-10463_FOI_Request.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> A parliamentary reply on 21 March 2016 noted that "The consideration of options to deliver the capabilities provided by RFA ''Diligence'' and RFA ''Argus'' remains ongoing".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2016-03-21/31836/|title=Written questions and answers - Written questions, answers and statements - UK Parliament|accessdate=26 June 2023|archive-date=7 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200207073711/https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2016-03-21/31836/|url-status=live}}</ref> An August 2016 notice stated that ''Diligence'' was placed up for sale,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/notice-of-sale-former-rfa-diligence-a-forward-repair-ship|title=Notice of sale: former RFA Diligence a forward repair ship|date=3 April 2019|publisher=UK Ministry of Defence|access-date=5 August 2016|archive-date=5 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160805170557/https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/notice-of-sale-former-rfa-diligence-a-forward-repair-ship|url-status=live}}</ref> and that the MOD was considering options for a replacement.<ref name=Consideration>{{cite news | url=http://www.janes.com/article/62912/uk-loses-operational-maintenance-and-repair-capability-as-diligence-is-retired-early | title=UK loses operational maintenance and repair capability as Diligence is retired early | newspaper=IHS Janes | date=11 August 2016 | access-date=12 August 2016 | archive-date=12 August 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160812173356/http://www.janes.com/article/62912/uk-loses-operational-maintenance-and-repair-capability-as-diligence-is-retired-early | url-status=live }}</ref> The 2021 defence white paper was silent on a specific replacement for either vessel, essentially confirming that the enhanced aviation capabilities eventually envisaged as being provided by the mooted ''Multi-Role Support Ships'' (MRSS), would be the ''de facto'' replacement for ''Argus'' though the first MRSS might not actually enter service until the 2030s.<ref name="auto">{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-royal-fleet-auxiliary-in-2022/ | title=The Royal Fleet Auxiliary in 2022 &#124; Navy Lookout | date=30 May 2022 | access-date=31 May 2022 | archive-date=30 May 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220530065703/https://www.navylookout.com/the-royal-fleet-auxiliary-in-2022/ | url-status=live }}</ref> In 2022, it was confirmed that ''Argus'' would in fact be extended in service "beyond 2030".<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/rfa-argus-extended-in-service-beyond-2030/ | title=RFA Argus extended in service beyond 2030 &#124; Navy Lookout | date=29 June 2022 | access-date=30 June 2022 | archive-date=29 June 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220629214550/https://www.navylookout.com/rfa-argus-extended-in-service-beyond-2030/ | url-status=live }}</ref>

In addition to its existing capabilities, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary is also assuming responsibility both for the new MROSS capability, with a vessel purchased for that purpose, RFA ''Proteus'', and the acquisition of another ship, RFA ''Stirling Castle'', to serve as an autonomous mine-hunting command and control vessel.<ref name=mross />

==Submarines==

===''Astute''-class nuclear attack submarine===
{{main|Astute-class submarine}}
[[File:astutepic.jpg|thumb|right|{{HMS|Astute|S119|6}} enters Faslane Naval Base]]
In 1997 the MOD signed a contract with GEC-Marconi (now BAE Systems Submarine Solutions) to deliver a new class of nuclear powered attack submarines to the Royal Navy. This class was intended to replace the five remaining boats of the ageing {{sclass|Swiftsure|submarine|4}}, as well as the oldest two boats of the {{sclass|Trafalgar|submarine|4}}. However delays led to the construction of only seven Astute-class, thereby replacing only the Trafalgar-class ''de facto''. The first-in-class HMS ''Astute'' was laid down in January 2001 and commissioned into the fleet in August 2010, followed by her sisters HMS ''Ambush'' (2013), HMS ''Artful'' (2016), HMS ''Audacious'' (2020) and HMS ''Anson'' (2022). As of August 2022, five of the boats have been commissioned and two are under construction. The entry into service of the seventh boat is planned for 2026.<ref name="theyworkforyou1"/>

The ''Astute''-class are much larger than their predecessors and have greatly improved stealth, endurance and weapons load. Each submarine is capable of carrying up to 38 [[Tomahawk (missile family)|Tomahawk]] Land Attack Cruise Missiles and [[Spearfish torpedo|Spearfish heavyweight torpedoes]].

===''Dreadnought''-class nuclear ballistic missile submarine===
{{Main|Dreadnought-class submarine}}

In July 2016 it was confirmed that a new class of submarine would be built to replace the current fleet of 4 {{sclass|Vanguard|submarine|0}} ballistic missile submarines (SSBN) which carry the United Kingdom's nuclear deterrent.<ref name="qa">{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/4805768.stm|title=Q&A: Trident replacement|date=11 November 2006|work=BBC News|access-date=2006-12-01|archive-date=7 December 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061207031643/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/4805768.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> On 18 July 2016 the House of Commons voted 472 for and 117 against to proceed to build the new submarines.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2016-07-18/debates/16071818000001/UKSNuclearDeterrent |title=UK's Nuclear Deterrent |work=UK Hansard |date=18 July 2016 |access-date=20 July 2016 |archive-date=22 August 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160822193404/https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2016-07-18/debates/16071818000001/UKSNuclearDeterrent |url-status=live }}</ref> On 21 October 2016, the MoD announced that the first of the four planned boats would be named {{HMS|Dreadnought}}, with the name also attached to the class.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-37720580 |title=New nuclear submarine given famous naval name |date=21 October 2016 |website=BBC News |access-date=21 October 2016 |archive-date=21 October 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021044237/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-37720580 |url-status=live }}</ref> Construction of ''Dreadnought'' had commenced by 2017.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2017-04-18.71204.h&s |title=Warships: Shipbuilding – Ministry of Defence written question – answered on 25th April 2017 |work=Hansard |date=25 April 2017 |access-date=2 May 2017 |archive-date=4 February 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180204070353/https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2017-04-18.71204.h&s |url-status=live }}</ref> On 6 December 2018, the second boat of this class was named as HMS ''Valiant''.<ref>{{cite web|title=Defence Secretary announces £400m investment for nuclear-armed submarines|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/defence-secretary-announces-400m-investment-for-nuclear-armed-submarines|website=gov.uk|access-date=6 December 2018|archive-date=16 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116000035/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/defence-secretary-announces-400m-investment-for-nuclear-armed-submarines|url-status=live}}</ref> The final two boats of the class have been named HM Submarines ''Warspite'' and ''King George VI''.

=== SSN-AUKUS ===
{{Main|SSN-AUKUS}}

Prior to 2023, the plan for a Maritime Underwater Future Capability (MUFC), that is, a successor to the ''Astute''-class SSN, was known the SSN (R) program.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/701542/20180419-SDA_Corp_plan_final_portrait.pdf |title=Submarine Delivery Agency Corporate Plan 2018–2019 |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=1 April 2018 |publisher=Submarine Delivery Agency |access-date=2 May 2019 |archive-date=2 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190502052835/https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/701542/20180419-SDA_Corp_plan_final_portrait.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> MUFC was also known as the 'Astute Replacement Nuclear Submarine (SSN (R))'.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.matchtech.com/job/EMP451390/sda-project-manager-barrowinfurness-england |title=SDA Project Manager |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=18 February 2020 |website=matchtech.com |publisher=Matchtch |access-date=28 June 2020 |archive-date=4 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211004213107/https://www.matchtech.com/job/EMP451390/sda-project-manager-barrowinfurness-england |url-status=live }}</ref> In September 2021, a £170 million contract was awarded to BAE Systems and [[Rolls-Royce]] for initial design work on the submarines.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/australia-to-join-royal-navy-ssnr-submarine-programme/ |title=Australia to join Royal Navy SSN(R) submarine programme |date=13 March 2023 |website=Navy Lookout |access-date=13 March 2023 |archive-date=14 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230314082811/https://www.navylookout.com/australia-to-join-royal-navy-ssnr-submarine-programme/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In 2023, an agreement was reached by the American, British and Australian Governments to jointly develop a new attack submarine that is to be an evolution from SSN (R). The program will be a joint British-Australian-American project and will involve the construction of a new class of submarine for both the Royal Navy and the [[Royal Australian Navy]]. According to the Joint Leaders Statement, "Beginning in 2023, Australian military and civilian personnel will embed with the U.S. Navy, the Royal Navy, and in the United States and United Kingdom submarine industrial bases to accelerate the training of Australian personnel. The United States plans to increase SSN port visits to Australia beginning in 2023, with Australian sailors joining U.S. crews for training and development; the United Kingdom will increase visits to Australia beginning in 2026. ... In the late 2030s, the United Kingdom will deliver its first SSN-AUKUS to the Royal Navy. Australia will deliver the first SSN-AUKUS built in Australia to the Royal Australian Navy in the early 2040s". The program is to benefit from American technology transfers that will support the construction of the AUKUS submarines.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://seawaves.com/2023/03/14/joint-leaders-statement-on-aukus/ |title=Joint Leaders Statement on AUKUS |date=13 March 2023 |website=SeaWaves Magazine |access-date=13 March 2023 |archive-date=14 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230314035106/https://seawaves.com/2023/03/14/joint-leaders-statement-on-aukus/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In November 2022, MSubs Ltd was awarded a £15.4m contract to build an XLUUV (Extra Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle) vessel which is to be delivered to the Royal Navy within two years. The 17-tonne vessel (known as Project CETUS) was described as being "the next step in developing autonomous underwater warfare capability" and is also to feed into the design of SSN(R)/SSN AUKUS.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-purcases-its-first-uncrewed-submarine/ |title=Royal Navy purchases its first uncrewed submarine |date=13 March 2023 |website=Navy Lookout |access-date=1 December 2022 |archive-date=1 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221201125058/https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-purcases-its-first-uncrewed-submarine/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Aircraft==

===Fixed-wing aircraft===
[[File:Pictured is the first of the UK's F-35B Lightning II jets to be flown to the UK. MOD 45160016.jpg|thumb|F-35 Lightning II]]
The ''Invincible'' class, because of its small size, had only a limited capacity and was only capable of operating STOVL aircraft, firstly the Sea Harrier and subsequently the [[RAF Harrier II|Harrier GR7/GR9]]. In 2006 the [[Sea Harrier]] was withdrawn from service. This saw the front line Sea Harrier squadron of the [[Fleet Air Arm]] converting to the Harrier GR9, as part of the evolution of the [[Joint Force Harrier]] concept. The Harrier's replacement in both the RAF and the FAA is the American-designed and built [[F-35 Lightning II]] [[Joint Combat Aircraft]]. The F-35 is a significant improvement over the Harrier, in terms of speed, range and weapon load.<ref name="theguardian.com">[https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2012/may/09/government-u-turn-fighter-jets Government forced into U-turn on Royal Navy fighter jets] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160516225413/http://www.theguardian.com/uk/2012/may/09/government-u-turn-fighter-jets |date=16 May 2016 }}, guardian.co.uk, 10 May 2012</ref>

The UK had plans to order 138 F-35Bs for the FAA and RAF. The financial crisis led to the decision taken in the 2010 SDSR to immediately withdraw the Harrier GR9 force in late 2010 along with [[HMS Ark Royal (R07)|HMS ''Ark Royal'']], to reduce the total number of F-35s planned for purchase by the UK, and to purchase the F-35C [[CATOBAR]] version rather than the [[STOVL]] F-35B. By May 2012, the government had decided to purchase the more expensive and less-capable short-take off version, the F-35B instead.<ref name="theguardian.com"/>

In July 2012, the Secretary of State for Defence stated that an initial 48 F-35Bs will be purchased to equip the carrier fleet.<ref>Hewson, Robert. [http://www.janes.com/products/janes/defence-security-report.aspx?ID=1065969970&channel=defence&subChannel=business "UK slashes F-35B numbers but might look to split buy with F-35As."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130517003237/http://www.janes.com/products/janes/defence-security-report.aspx?ID=1065969970&channel=defence&subChannel=business |date=17 May 2013 }} ''IHS Janes'', 27 July 2012.</ref> In September 2013, it was announced that the second JSF squadron would be the Fleet Air Arm's [[809 Naval Air Squadron|809 NAS]].<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2013/September/09/130909-809-Air-Squadron 'Immortal’ air squadron to fly Royal Navy's newest jets] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140119000442/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2013/September/09/130909-809-Air-Squadron |date=19 January 2014 }}, royalnavy.mod.uk, 09/09/2013</ref> Chancellor George Osborne announced on 22 November 2015 that the UK will have 24 F-35Bs on its two new carriers by 2023.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/shared/bsp/hi/pdfs/22111502.pdf|title=The Andrew Marr Show|website=bbc.co.uk|date=22 November 2015|access-date=26 June 2023|archive-date=30 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030175636/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/shared/bsp/hi/pdfs/22111502.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> While the 2015 SDSR declared that the United Kingdom would buy 138 F-35s over the life of the programme, the 2021 defence white paper sharply reduced that total to "beyond 48". Subsequently, the First Sea Lord indicated that the new envisaged number was to be 60 aircraft initially and "then maybe more", up to a maximum of around 80 to hopefully equip four "deployable squadrons".<ref>{{Cite web|url = https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/uk-looking-at-60-maybe-up-to-around-80-f-35b-jets/|title = UK looking at '60 and then maybe up to 80′ F-35B jets|date = 23 March 2021|access-date = 23 March 2021|archive-date = 7 October 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211007232310/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/uk-looking-at-60-maybe-up-to-around-80-f-35b-jets/|url-status = live}}</ref>

On 20 May 2016, it had been reported that the UK would field four frontline squadrons as part of its [[Lightning Force HQ|Lightning Force]]; in addition to 809 NAS, plus another Fleet Air Arm squadron, four [[Royal Air Force]] units ([[No. 617 Squadron RAF|617 Sqn]] plus another operational squadron, [[No. 207 Squadron RAF|207 Sqn]] as the [[Operational conversion unit|OCU]], and 17(R) Squadron as the Operational Evaluation Unit) were also formed.<ref>{{cite news | url= http://aviationweek.com/defense/uk-planning-four-front-line-f-35-squadrons | work= Aviationweek | title= UK Planning four front-line F-35 Squadrons | date= 20 May 2016 | access-date= 20 May 2016 | archive-date= 20 May 2016 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160520230815/http://aviationweek.com/defense/uk-planning-four-front-line-f-35-squadrons | url-status= live }}</ref> The UK is committed to improving its F-35Bs to Block 4 standard.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2020-06-18/61437/v |title=Ministry of Defence Joint Strike Fighter Aircraft |author=<!--Not stated--> |website=Hansard Ministry of Defence Written Questions and Answers |publisher=UK Hansard |access-date=26 June 2020 |quote=The F-35 Block 4 upgrade has been included in the UK F-35 programme budget since its inception. Decisions on the number of aircraft to be upgraded will be made on the basis of military capability requirements. |archive-date=27 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200627170459/https://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2020-06-18/61437/v |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Trevithick |first=Joseph |date=24 June 2020 |title=British Government Says It Might Pass On $27M Upgrade For Some of Its F-35s |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/34330/british-government-says-it-might-pass-on-27m-upgrade-for-some-of-its-f-35s |work=The Warzone |access-date=26 June 2020 |archive-date=26 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200626023629/https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/34330/british-government-says-it-might-pass-on-27m-upgrade-for-some-of-its-f-35s |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2016 it had been planned that 809 NAS would stand up in April 2023.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-f-35-commander-highlights-training-challenge-425561/ | title=UK F-35 commander highlights training challenge | date=20 May 2016 | first=Beth | last=Stevenson | publisher=Flight Global | access-date=22 May 2016 | archive-date=21 May 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160521162619/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/uk-f-35-commander-highlights-training-challenge-425561/ | url-status=live }}</ref> However, by 2021 it was no longer clear that this objective would be met and a specific date for 809 NAS to stand up had yet to be confirmed.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/39690/top-british-f-35b-pilot-on-how-his-fledgling-team-is-forging-its-own-path-forward |title=Top British F-35 Pilot On How His Fledgling Team Is Forging Its Own Path Forward |date=15 March 2021 |access-date=10 November 2021 |archive-date=10 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211110220213/https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/39690/top-british-f-35b-pilot-on-how-his-fledgling-team-is-forging-its-own-path-forward |url-status=live }}</ref> In early 2022, one analysis suggested that 809 Squadron might not stand up before 2026 and that a third frontline F-35 squadron might not be active before 2030.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-future-maritime-aviation-force-uk-naval-aviation-in-2030/|title=The Future Maritime Aviation Force – UK naval aviation in 2030 &#124; Navy Lookout|date=25 January 2022|access-date=26 January 2022|archive-date=26 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220126153903/https://www.navylookout.com/the-future-maritime-aviation-force-uk-naval-aviation-in-2030/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2022-06-23.HL1253.h | title=F-35 Aircraft | access-date=12 July 2022 | archive-date=11 July 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220711144745/https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2022-06-23.HL1253.h | url-status=live }}</ref> In September 2022, it was reported that 809 Squadron would in fact formally stand up in 2023 but that it would not be considered "deployable" for a further two years thereafter.<ref name="auto6">{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/building-up-the-lightning-force-when-will-the-uk-get-its-f-35-jets/ | title=Building up the Lightning Force – when will the UK get its F-35 jets? &#124; Navy Lookout | date=14 September 2022 | access-date=14 September 2022 | archive-date=14 September 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220914123413/https://www.navylookout.com/building-up-the-lightning-force-when-will-the-uk-get-its-f-35-jets/ | url-status=live }}</ref> No. 809 Squadron formally stood-up in December 2023.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-f-35-accident-report-a-reality-check-for-uk-carrier-strike/ | title=The F-35 accident report – a reality check for UK Carrier Strike | website=Navy Lookout | date=25 August 2023 | access-date=27 September 2023 | archive-date=27 September 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230927142835/https://www.navylookout.com/the-f-35-accident-report-a-reality-check-for-uk-carrier-strike/ | url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="auto6"/><ref>{{cite tweet |url=https://twitter.com/NavyLookout/status/1733080885820260761?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet |title=@NavyLookout F-35 with @809NAS 'phoenix from the flames' tail art on display at @RAF_Marham as the squadron recommissions today.  |number=1733080885820260761 |user=NavyLookout |date=8 December 2023 |access-date=8 December 2023}}</ref>

In 2022, U.K. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace reported that the RAF and Royal Navy faced a considerable challenge in providing even the existing modest F-35B fleet with qualified pilots. As of late 2022 there were only 30 qualified British pilots (plus three exchange pilots from the United States and Australia) for the F-35. The average wait time for RAF trainee Typhoon and F-35 pilots, after completing the Military Flying Training System, was approximately 11 and 12 months respectively. A further gap of 68 weeks existed between completing Basic Flying Training and beginning Advanced Fast Jet Training. The resulting pilot shortage was a factor in being able to stand up the first Fleet Air Arm Squadron (809 Squadron) on a timely basis.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/features/uk-military-pilot-training-in-limbo-for-beleaguered-raf/ | title=UK military pilot training in limbo for beleaguered RAF | date=7 November 2022 | access-date=2 January 2023 | archive-date=1 January 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230101215205/https://www.airforce-technology.com/features/uk-military-pilot-training-in-limbo-for-beleaguered-raf/ | url-status=live }}</ref> In February 2023, the [[Chief of the Air Staff (United Kingdom)|Chief of the Air Staff]], Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston, stated that the number of UK F-35 pilots had grown to 34, with a further 7 to complete training by August 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Oral evidence: Work of the Chief of the Air Staff, HC 1108 |url=https://committees.parliament.uk/oralevidence/12649/html/ |date=1 February 2023 |access-date=22 March 2023 |archive-date=22 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230322090642/https://committees.parliament.uk/oralevidence/12649/html/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In April 2022, the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Richard Knighton, told the House of Commons Defence Select Committee that the MoD was in discussions to purchase a second tranche of 26 F-35B fighters. Nevertheless, subsequent reports suggested that this second tranche order would only be completed in 2033.<ref>{{cite news |last=Martin |first=Tim |date=2 December 2022 |title=UK industry officials raise eyebrows over Royal Air Force F-35, E-7 and A400M programs |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2022/12/uk-industry-officials-raise-eyebrows-over-royal-air-force-f-35-e-7-and-a400m-programs/#:~:text=A%20spokesperson%20for%20Lockheed%20Martin,2025%2C%20according%20to%20the%20spokesperson. |work=Breaking Defence |access-date=26 March 2023 |archive-date=26 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326091142/https://breakingdefense.com/2022/12/uk-industry-officials-raise-eyebrows-over-royal-air-force-f-35-e-7-and-a400m-programs/#:~:text=A%20spokesperson%20for%20Lockheed%20Martin,2025%2C%20according%20to%20the%20spokesperson. |url-status=live }}</ref> Plans for frontline F-35B squadrons had been modified and now envisaged a total of three squadrons (rather than four) each deploying 12-16 aircraft. In surge conditions 24 F-35s might be embarked on the carrier but a routine deployment would likely involve 12 aircraft.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/uk-to-purchase-at-least-74-f-35-jets/ | title=UK to purchase at least 74 F-35 jets &#124; Navy Lookout | date=27 April 2022 | access-date=27 April 2022 | archive-date=27 April 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220427102604/https://www.navylookout.com/uk-to-purchase-at-least-74-f-35-jets/ | url-status=live }}</ref>

===Helicopters===
[[File:Royal Navy Melin Mk 2 Helicopters on HMS Illustrious MOD 45157435.jpg|thumb|Merlin HM2's operating on HMS ''Illustrious'']]
The [[Strategic Defence and Security Review 2010|2010 Strategic Defence and Security Review]] saw the Fleet Air Arm transition to operate two types of helicopter – the [[Merlin helicopter|AW101 Merlin]] and the [[Lynx Wildcat|AW159 Wildcat]].<ref name="direct.gov.uk">[http://www.direct.gov.uk/prod_consum_dg/groups/dg_digitalassets/@dg/@en/documents/digitalasset/dg_191634.pdf?CID=PDF&PLA=furl&CRE=sdsr Securing Britain in an Age of Uncertainty: The Strategic Defence and Security Review] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120927032808/http://www.direct.gov.uk/prod_consum_dg/groups/dg_digitalassets/@dg/@en/documents/digitalasset/dg_191634.pdf?CID=PDF&PLA=furl&CRE=sdsr |date=27 September 2012 }}, gov.uk, October 2010</ref> These replaced the aging fleet of [[Westland Sea King]]s and [[Westland Lynx]]es. There are 30 Merlin HM.2 helicopters in service.<ref name="savetheroyalnavy3">{{cite web |url=https://www.savetheroyalnavy.org/maiden-flight-for-crowsnest-the-royal-navys-eye-in-the-sky/ |title=Maiden flight for Crowsnest – the Royal Navy's eye in the sky |publisher=Save the Royal Navy |date=2019-04-11 |access-date=2020-05-12 |archive-date=6 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200506205623/https://www.savetheroyalnavy.org/maiden-flight-for-crowsnest-the-royal-navys-eye-in-the-sky/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

The future AEW capability of the FAA is the "Crowsnest" programme, is set to replace the Sea King ASaC.7 which retired in September 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/article/37615/uk-extends-sea-king-asac-7-life-out-to-2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140529145845/http://www.janes.com/article/37615/uk-extends-sea-king-asac-7-life-out-to-2018|archive-date=29 May 2014|title=Janes &#124; Latest defence and security news}}</ref><ref name="savetheroyalnavy3" /> The original six-year capability-gap between the retirement of the Sea King ASaC.7 fleet and the entry service of Crowsnest was the source of much criticism.<ref>[http://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/10149-001-Carrier.full-report.pdf National Audit Office - CVF report] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131007110805/http://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/10149-001-Carrier.full-report.pdf |date=7 October 2013 }}, nao.org.uk</ref><ref name="publications.parliament.uk">[https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201314/cmselect/cmpubacc/113/113we01.htm House of Commons Hansard written answers] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161029170202/http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201314/cmselect/cmpubacc/113/113we01.htm |date=29 October 2016 }}, publications.parliament.uk, 29 May 2013</ref>   All 30 of the Royal Navy's HM.2 Merlins will be equipped to carry the Crowsnest system, though a maximum of 10 could be fitted with it at any one time.<ref name="savetheroyalnavy3"/>

The Thales Crowsnest radar is a slightly upgraded version of the existing Searchwater 2000 radar.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-surveillance-system-for-future-royal-navy-aircraft-carriers-revealed|title=New surveillance system for future Royal Navy aircraft carriers revealed|website=GOV.UK|access-date=23 May 2015|archive-date=17 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150717211148/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-surveillance-system-for-future-royal-navy-aircraft-carriers-revealed|url-status=live}}</ref> As part of the process of the system reaching initial operating capability, Crowsnest was deployed with the Royal Navy's carrier task group in 2021. However, the system experienced operating challenges.<ref>{{Cite web|url = https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/03/royal-navys-new-merlin-crowsnest-aew-helicopter-enters-service-ahead-of-cgs21-deployment/|title = Royal Navy's New Merlin Crowsnest AEW Helicopter Enters Service Ahead of CGS21 deployment|date = 24 March 2021|access-date = 26 March 2021|archive-date = 26 March 2023|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230326025515/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/03/royal-navys-new-merlin-crowsnest-aew-helicopter-enters-service-ahead-of-cgs21-deployment/|url-status = live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/007678-001-Carrier-Strike-preparing-for-deployment.pdf |title=Carrier Strike – Preparing for deployment |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=26 June 2020 |website=nao.org.uk |publisher=National Audit Office |access-date=8 November 2020 |archive-date=29 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200629082857/https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/007678-001-Carrier-Strike-preparing-for-deployment.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> Initial operating capability of the system was achieved in July 2023 with full operating capability expected in 2024/25. Despite the original intent to have up to 10 Merlin helicopters deploy the Crowsnest system, it has been reported that initially only five Merlins will be equipped with Crowsnest, three of these being normally assigned to the "high readiness" aircraft carrier.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/crowsnest-airborne-surveillance-and-control-due-to-achieve-initial-operating-capability-in-2023/ | title=Crowsnest Airborne Surveillance and Control due to achieve Initial Operating Capability in 2023 &#124; Navy Lookout | date=19 December 2022 | access-date=19 December 2022 | archive-date=19 December 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221219103507/https://www.navylookout.com/crowsnest-airborne-surveillance-and-control-due-to-achieve-initial-operating-capability-in-2023/ | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/2023-carrier-strike-group-deployment-begins/ | title=2023 Carrier Strike Group deployment begins | website=Navy Lookout | date=11 September 2023 | access-date=11 September 2023 | archive-date=14 September 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230914203014/https://www.navylookout.com/2023-carrier-strike-group-deployment-begins/ | url-status=live }}</ref>

Problems with Merlin/Crowsnest have caused the Royal Navy to look for a replacement. {{As of|2023}} the system, which is still to achieve full operating capability, has a planned retirement date of 2029. In 2021, the UK's Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) announced that options would be examined and might draw on the already existing [[Project Vixen]] (see below), researching the utility of a naval unmanned system that could encompass strike, airborne surveillance, air-to-air refueling and electronic warfare.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/crowsnest-to-be-retired-by-decades-end/?cf-view | title=Crowsnest to be retired by decades' end | website=Naval Technology | last=Lye | first=Harry | date=12 May 2021 | access-date=14 September 2023 | archive-date=29 December 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231229033434/https://www.naval-technology.com/news/crowsnest-to-be-retired-by-decades-end/ | url-status=live }}</ref> If implemented, the replacement of Merlin/Crowsnest by another system would permit all Merlin helicopters to focus on ASW operations for the remainder of their service lives.

{{As of|2020}}, the out of service date for the HM.2s was envisaged as 2029 while the HC.4s were scheduled to retire by 2030.<ref>{{cite web|url = https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/when-will-the-royal-navys-merlin-helicopters-be-retired/|title = When will the Royal Navy's Merlin helicopters be retired?|date = 9 July 2020|access-date = 15 July 2020|archive-date = 15 July 2020|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200715201741/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/when-will-the-royal-navys-merlin-helicopters-be-retired/|url-status = live}}</ref> The 2021 defence white paper did not reference a Merlin replacement.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/up-arrows-and-down-arrows-reflecting-on-the-defence-command-paper/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210330142448/https://www.navylookout.com/up-arrows-and-down-arrows-reflecting-on-the-defence-command-paper/ |archive-date=30 March 2021 |title=Up arrows and down arrows – reflecting on the Defence Command Paper {{!}} Navy Lookout}}</ref> However, it was subsequently indicated that the out of service date for both the HM.2s and the HC.4s had been extended to 2040.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/helicopters/uk-extends-merlin-operations-until-2040/144123.article#.YMNwX-04Hks.twitter |title=UK extends Merlin operations until 2040 {{!}} News {{!}} Flight Global |access-date=12 June 2021 |archive-date=12 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210612095111/https://www.flightglobal.com/helicopters/uk-extends-merlin-operations-until-2040/144123.article#.YMNwX-04Hks.twitter |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Remote Piloted Air Systems===
<!-- Note RPAS is the official name in UK use -->
Following trials with the rail-launched [[Boeing Insitu ScanEagle|ScanEagle]] it started operational flights of leased ScanEagles in January 2014 watching for swarm attacks on HMS ''Somerset'' and RFA ''Cardigan Bay'' in the Persian Gulf.<ref name=Hoyle20140116>{{cite web | url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/royal-navy-ready-to-launch-scaneagle-operations-394918/ | title=Royal Navy ready to launch ScanEagle operations | first=Craig | last=Hoyle | publisher=Flight International | date=16 January 2014 | access-date=29 October 2014 | archive-date=29 October 2014 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141029212855/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/royal-navy-ready-to-launch-scaneagle-operations-394918/ | url-status=live }}</ref> This was expanded in November 2014, when [[700 Naval Air Squadron|700X NAS]] was formed to serve as both the parent unit for ship based ScanEagle flights, and as the evaluation unit for any future RPAS systems that the [[Royal Navy]] elects to try.<ref name="UAV">{{cite web |url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2014/november/25/141125-700x-scan-eagle |title=X-men take to the Cornish skies |date=25 November 2014 |website=Royal Navy |access-date=25 November 2014 |archive-date=28 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141128050626/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2014/november/25/141125-700x-scan-eagle |url-status=dead }}</ref> ScanEagle was withdrawn in 2017 and replaced by the [[AeroVironment RQ-20 Puma|RQ-20A Puma]] shoulder-launched UAV on board.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Puma drone comes on 'leaps and bounds' during North Sea and Baltic deployment|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/june/24/210624-puma-drone-operations|access-date=2022-01-27|website=www.royalnavy.mod.uk|language=en|archive-date=27 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220127235628/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/june/24/210624-puma-drone-operations|url-status=live}}</ref> The optionally-manned [[PZL-Świdnik]] [[PZL SW-4|SW-4 Solo]] completed trials with the RN in 2015 as part of the UK's RWUAS (Rotary Wing Unmanned Air System) Capability Concept Demonstrator (CCD) programme.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/dsei-agustawestland-reveals-results-of-royal-navy-r-416763/|title=DSEI: AgustaWestland reveals results of Royal Navy RWUAS trials|date=15 September 2015|access-date=18 September 2016|archive-date=11 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170211220743/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/dsei-agustawestland-reveals-results-of-royal-navy-r-416763/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.pzl.swidnik.pl/pzl-swidnik-exhibits-technology-of-the-future-at-mspo-2014-with-the-sw-4-solo-ruasoph/0,-mv,1 | title=PZL-Świdnik exhibits technology of the future at MSPO 2014 with the SW-4 Solo RUAS/OPH | publisher=PZL-Świdnik | date=1 September 2014 | access-date=29 October 2014 | archive-date=29 October 2014 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141029211741/http://www.pzl.swidnik.pl/pzl-swidnik-exhibits-technology-of-the-future-at-mspo-2014-with-the-sw-4-solo-ruasoph/0,-mv,1 | url-status=live }}</ref> In early 2023, the [[Schiebel Camcopter S-100|Schiebel S-100 Camcopter]] was selected to operate in an intelligence-gathering, surveillance and reconnaissance role with the Royal Navy. Named ''Peregrine'' in Royal Navy service, it began trials on [[HMS Lancaster (F229)|HMS Lancaster]] in the Persian Gulf in mid-2024.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/peregrine-rotary-wing-uas-conducts-initial-royal-navy-flying-trials-from-hms-lancaster/ |title=Peregrine rotary wing UAS conducts initial Royal Navy flying trials from HMS Lancaster |website=Navy Lookout |date=11 September 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navylookout.com/peregrine-rotary-wing-uav-to-enter-service-with-the-royal-navy/|title=Peregrine rotary wing UAV to enter service with the Royal Navy|website=Navy Lookout|date=10 February 2023|access-date=10 February 2023|archive-date=10 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230210141646/https://www.navylookout.com/peregrine-rotary-wing-uav-to-enter-service-with-the-royal-navy/|url-status=live}}</ref>

The Royal Navy has also utilised 3-D printed unmanned aircraft in its operations.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2016/april/14/160414-rn-uses-pilotless-aircraft|title=Royal Navy uses pilotless aircraft to navigate through ice&#124; Royal Navy|website=www.royalnavy.mod.uk|access-date=2 November 2022|archive-date=2 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221102133942/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2016/april/14/160414-rn-uses-pilotless-aircraft|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.southampton.ac.uk/news/2015/07/uav-royal-navy-test-flight.page|title=Southampton engineers test fly printed aircraft off Royal Navy ship &#124; University of Southampton|website=www.southampton.ac.uk|access-date=2 November 2022|archive-date=2 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221102151011/https://www.southampton.ac.uk/news/2015/07/uav-royal-navy-test-flight.page|url-status=live}}</ref>

The Royal Navy has planned for two future UAS: The Flexible Deployable UAS (FDUAS) and Joint Mini UAS (JMUAS) programs. FDUAS is seen as a "Sea Eagle (Scan Eagle) Plus" while JMUAS is a UAS for the Royal Marines.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/naval/naval-aviation/2015/12/17/royal-navy-seeks-funds-two-unmanned-air-systems/77491048/|title=Royal Navy Seeks Funds for Two Unmanned Air Systems|date=17 December 2015|access-date=1 January 2016|archive-date=29 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231229033544/https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2015/12/17/royal-navy-seeks-funds-for-two-unmanned-air-systems/|url-status=live}}</ref> In November 2019, [[700 Naval Air Squadron|700 NAS]] tested two new UAS, namely, the [[AeroVironment RQ-20 Puma]] and the [[AeroVironment Wasp III]].<ref>{{cite news |title=700X begins test of remote piloted aircraft |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2019/november/05/191105-700x-test-remote-aircraft |work=Royal Navy |date=5 November 2019 |access-date=1 January 2020 |archive-date=1 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200101062909/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2019/november/05/191105-700x-test-remote-aircraft |url-status=live }}</ref>

In 2020 NavyX tested a heavy quadcopter from [[Malloy Aeronautics]], with the head engineer of Malloy stating that the aspiration was to autonomously deploy 180&nbsp;kg payloads from a Royal Navy vessel over ranges of 20&nbsp;km with their T400 quadcopter.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/june/19/200619-navyx-and-heavy-lift-drone | title=Royal Navy continues trials of heavy-lift drone | date=19 June 2020 | publisher=Royal Navy | access-date=18 May 2021 | archive-date=18 May 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210518123239/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/june/19/200619-navyx-and-heavy-lift-drone | url-status=live }}</ref> Payloads could include people, torpedoes and fixed-wing drones. In 2022, a £60 million four-year contract was awarded to Leonardo to design and develop an uncrewed helicopter. A three-tonne demonstrator was envisaged to carry out trials for a UAV with anti-submarine capabilities.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/07/leonardo-wins-contract-to-develop-vtol-uav-for-royal-navy/ | title=Leonardo Wins Contract to Develop VTOL UAV for Royal Navy | date=21 July 2022 | access-date=21 July 2022 | archive-date=21 July 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220721124004/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/07/leonardo-wins-contract-to-develop-vtol-uav-for-royal-navy/ | url-status=live }}</ref> As of 2023, it was reported that the technology demonstrator - named ''Proteus'' - would conduct an initial flight in 2025.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/proteus-developing-an-uncrewed-helicopter-for-the-royal-navy/ | title=PROTEUS – developing an uncrewed helicopter for the Royal Navy | date=3 October 2023 | publisher=Navy Lookout | access-date=3 October 2023 | archive-date=8 October 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231008191116/https://www.navylookout.com/proteus-developing-an-uncrewed-helicopter-for-the-royal-navy/ | url-status=live }}</ref>

In March 2021, [[Project Vixen]] was revealed to the public as a programme to examine the use of fixed-wing UAVs from the ''Queen Elizabeth''-class aircraft carriers in roles such as surveillance, strike, electronic warfare and air-to-air refueling.<ref name="NT1">{{cite news |last1=Lye |first1=Harry |title=Royal Navy Project Vixen exploring potential Carrier UAS |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/royal-navy-project-vixen-exploring-potential-carrier-uas/ |access-date=31 March 2021 |work=Naval Technology |date=24 March 2021 |archive-date=27 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210327131008/https://www.naval-technology.com/news/royal-navy-project-vixen-exploring-potential-carrier-uas/ |url-status=live }}</ref> During the same month, it was also revealed that the MOD was seeking electromagnetic catapults and arrestor cables capable of launching large fixed-wing UAVs from the aircraft carriers within three{{endash}}five years.<ref name="AW1">{{cite news |title=Electromagnetic Catapults For Carriers Sought By UK Royal Navy |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/aircraft-propulsion/electromagnetic-catapults-carriers-sought-uk-royal-navy |access-date=31 March 2021 |work=[[Aviation Week]] |date=1 March 2021 |archive-date=21 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421140752/https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/aircraft-propulsion/electromagnetic-catapults-carriers-sought-uk-royal-navy |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="NIcats">{{cite news |last1=Lye |first1=Harry |title=Royal Navy seeking information on cats and traps to launch drones |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/features/uk-carrier-cats-and-traps/ |access-date=31 March 2021 |work=Naval Technology |date=9 March 2021 |archive-date=24 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210324004616/https://www.naval-technology.com/features/uk-carrier-cats-and-traps/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

During the WESTLANT 23 deployment to the USA, HMS Prince of Wales is planned to trial the [[General Atomics Mojave]], a [[Short take-off and landing|short take-off and landing (STOL)]] [[Medium-altitude long-endurance UAV|medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE)]] drone to examine the feasibility of operating large fixed-wing drones for armed surveillance and other roles from carriers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Scott |first=Richard |date=2023-05-31 |title=Royal Navy plans carrier trial for Mojave STOL UAS |url=https://www.navalnews.com/event-news/cne-2023/2023/05/royal-navy-plans-carrier-trial-for-mojave-stol-uas/ |access-date=2023-10-08 |website=Naval News |language=en-US |archive-date=10 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010112543/https://www.navalnews.com/event-news/cne-2023/2023/05/royal-navy-plans-carrier-trial-for-mojave-stol-uas/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Before leaving European waters, Prince of Wales conducted STOL trials with a WAS HCMC twin-engine heavy-lift RPAS to embark a dummy payload of naval memorabilia before returning to the UK with a fuel sample for laboratory testing, demonstrating the first steps in obtaining fixed-wing cargo capability for the [[Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier|Queen Elizabeth-class carriers]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-09-07 |title=The first fixed-wing UAV lands on a Royal Navy aircraft carrier {{!}} Navy Lookout |url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-first-fixed-wing-uav-lands-on-a-royal-navy-aircraft-carrier/ |access-date=2023-10-08 |website=www.navylookout.com |language=en-GB |archive-date=10 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010112541/https://www.navylookout.com/the-first-fixed-wing-uav-lands-on-a-royal-navy-aircraft-carrier/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Willett |first=Dr Lee |date=2023-09-08 |title=Video: Royal Navy Tests Cargo UAS Aboard Aircraft Carrier |url=https://www.navalnews.com/event-news/dsei-2023/2023/09/royal-navy-uas-trial-demonstrates-carrier-operations-capability/ |access-date=2023-10-08 |website=Naval News |language=en-US |archive-date=10 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010112541/https://www.navalnews.com/event-news/dsei-2023/2023/09/royal-navy-uas-trial-demonstrates-carrier-operations-capability/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Royal Marines==

{{See also|Future Commando Force}}

[[File:Royal Marines roll-out new vehicles on mortar trials MOD 45167533.jpg|thumb|RM trialling mortars on [[Can-Am Off-Road|Can-Am]] Outlander quad bike in 2020]]
The Royal Marines are being further downsized and restructured for the future, with 200 driver and administrative staff posts set to be reallocated to Royal Navy personnel. [[42 Commando]] was transformed into a specialised "Maritime Operations unit" so that roles from that unit such as heavy weapons specialists, can be reallocated across the Royal Navy as of May 2018<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/royal-marines-to-be-restructured-in-line-with-growing-royal-navy|title=Royal Marines to be restructured in line with growing Royal Navy|publisher=UK MOD|access-date=12 April 2017|archive-date=15 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170415182449/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/royal-marines-to-be-restructured-in-line-with-growing-royal-navy|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Royal Navy |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2018/may/17/180517-bickleigh-marines-mark-their-new-role-with-parade-and-fun-day |title=Bickleigh marines mark their new role with parade and fun day |publisher=Royal Navy |date=17 May 2018 |access-date=2019-02-12 |archive-date=29 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181029153805/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2018/may/17/180517-bickleigh-marines-mark-their-new-role-with-parade-and-fun-day |url-status=live }}</ref> The Royal Marines stood up an office programme titled, [[Future Commando Force]], aiming to give staff and intellectual horsepower to change the Royal Marines to meet the threats of the future.<ref>{{cite news |last=Ripley |first=Tim |date=12 June 2019 |title=UK Royal Marines stand up programme office to lead Future Commando Force |url=https://www.janes.com/article/89209/uk-royal-marines-stand-up-programme-office-to-lead-future-commando-force |work=IHS Janes |location=London |access-date=10 July 2019 |archive-date=10 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190710070339/https://www.janes.com/article/89209/uk-royal-marines-stand-up-programme-office-to-lead-future-commando-force |url-status=live }}</ref> There will be only two [[Littoral Response Group]]s: One based East of Suez, one based in the High North. The [[Royal Marines Band Service]] will remain at full strength.<ref>{{cite news |last=Nicholls |first=Dominic |date=26 June 2020 |title=UK's Future Commando Force: a radical and 'lethal' new unit to fight threats across the globe |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/06/26/uks-future-commando-force-radical-lethal-new-unit-fight-threats/ |work=The Daily Telegraph |access-date=27 June 2020 |archive-date=27 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200627040635/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/06/26/uks-future-commando-force-radical-lethal-new-unit-fight-threats/ |url-status=live }}</ref> On 27 June 2020, the Royal Marines announced the adopting of a new uniform with the [[MultiCam]] camouflage.<ref>{{cite news |title=New commando uniform for Royal Marines |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/june/27/200626-royal-marines-new-uniform |work=Royal Navy |date=27 June 2020 |access-date=28 June 2020 |archive-date=2 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201102061926/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/june/27/200626-royal-marines-new-uniform |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Royal Marines Commandos Go MultiCam |url=https://www.joint-forces.com/features/kit-camo/33675-royal-marines-commandos-go-multicam |work=Joint Forces News |date=26 June 2020 |access-date=28 June 2020 |archive-date=28 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200628192749/https://www.joint-forces.com/features/kit-camo/33675-royal-marines-commandos-go-multicam |url-status=live }}</ref>

== Weapons ==
{{Main|Active Royal Navy weapon systems}}
[[File:Sea Venom anti-ship missile on board HMS Prince of Wales.jpg|thumb|A dummy [[Sea Venom (missile)|Sea Venom]] anti-ship missile on board [[HMS Prince of Wales (R09)]].]]
*[[Sea Ceptor]] (formerly CAMM(M) or FLAADS) is a short-range air-defence missile to replace [[Sea Wolf (missile)|Sea Wolf]] on Type 23 frigates from 2016<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.mbda-systems.com/mediagallery/files/CAMM-family_background.pdf | title=Press Information – CAMM | publisher=MBDA Systems | date=June 2011 | access-date=16 October 2011 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110811224119/http://www.mbda-systems.com/mediagallery/files/CAMM-family_background.pdf | archive-date=11 August 2011}}</ref> and to be incrementally added to the armament of the Type 45 destroyers from 2026.
*Sea Viper, used by the Type 45 destroyers, has undergone trials using its SAMPSON radar to track ballistic missiles, and work is ongoing to develop its [[Aster (missile family)|Aster]] missiles to [[Anti-ballistic missile|counter ballistic missiles]].<ref name="Tran20130512">{{cite news | url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20130512/DEFREG01/305120007/MBDA-Positioned-Score-Big-3-Deals | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130629000307/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20130512/DEFREG01/305120007/MBDA-Positioned-Score-Big-3-Deals | url-status=dead | archive-date=29 June 2013 | title=MBDA Positioned to Score Big in 3 Deals | date=12 May 2013 | first=Pierre | last=Tran | newspaper=Defense News}}</ref> The UK is also considering upgrading its Type 45 Destroyers with the Aster 30 Block 1NT missile.<ref name="ReferenceB" />
*Martlet (formerly FASGW (Light) and the [[Lightweight Multirole Missile]]) is a short range, supersonic multirole missile for use against small surface warships, patrol vessels and craft. It has also demonstrated capability against [[unmanned aircraft|unmanned aircraft (UAVs)]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 November 2024 |title=The Royal Navy has enhanced its ability to thwart drone attack after helicopter crews downed a pilotless aircraft off the Welsh coast. |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news/2024/november/02/20241102-martlet-air-to-air |access-date=2 November 2024 |website=Royal Navy}}</ref> Martlet entered initial service in 2021 on the Fleet Air Arm's [[AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat|Wildcat]] maritime helicopters. Full operating capability is expected in 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/martlet-achieves-progress-in-operating-capabilities/ |title=Martlet achieves progress in operating capabilities |website=UK Defence Journal |last=Allison |first=George |date=23 July 2023 |access-date=24 July 2023 |archive-date=24 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230724092829/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/martlet-achieves-progress-in-operating-capabilities/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="savetheroyalnavy.org">{{Cite web|title=The Martlet missile – the Wildcat helicopter gets its claws {{!}} Navy Lookout|url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-martlet-missile-wildcat-helicopter-gets-its-claws/|access-date=2021-03-27|website=www.navylookout.com|date=15 June 2020|archive-date=16 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210916052433/https://www.navylookout.com/the-martlet-missile-wildcat-helicopter-gets-its-claws/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="savetheroyalnavy4">{{cite web |url=https://www.savetheroyalnavy.org/in-focus-the-wildcat-multi-role-helicopter-in-service-with-the-royal-navy/ |title=In focus: the Wildcat multi role helicopter in service with the Royal Navy |publisher=Save the Royal Navy |date=2019-02-04 |access-date=2020-05-12 |archive-date=26 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326025834/https://www.savetheroyalnavy.org/in-focus-the-wildcat-multi-role-helicopter-in-service-with-the-royal-navy/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
*[[Sea Venom (missile)|Sea Venom]] (formerly FASGW (Heavy)), a bigger anti-shipping missile launched from helicopters, replacing former [[Sea Skua]] missile which was withdrawn from service in 2017.<ref name="savetheroyalnavy.org" /> Initially reported deployed with helicopters of the Royal Navy's carrier strike group in 2021.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/rn-wildcats-field-new-anti-surface-guided-weapons-for-csg21 |title=RN Wildcats field new anti-surface guided weapons for CSG21 |access-date=6 November 2021 |archive-date=23 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211023111108/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/rn-wildcats-field-new-anti-surface-guided-weapons-for-csg21 |url-status=live }}</ref> However, operating challenges were reported in 2023 as "ongoing" and full operating capability for Sea Venom was delayed until 2026.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navys-sea-venom-light-anti-ship-missile-full-operating-capability-delayed-until-2026/|title=Royal Navy's Sea Venom light anti-ship missile full operating capability delayed until 2026|website=Navy Lookout|date=21 June 2023|access-date=22 June 2023|archive-date=22 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230622102628/https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navys-sea-venom-light-anti-ship-missile-full-operating-capability-delayed-until-2026/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="savetheroyalnavy4"/>
*The [[SPEAR 3]] missile is a multi-role networked anti-ship and land-attack missile based on the [[Brimstone (missile)|Brimstone]] anti-tank missile with the JSOW-ER turbojet to extend the range to over 120&nbsp;km. Four Spear 3 can fit in two internal weapons bay of an F-35B, MBDA are also looking at ship launch for members of the Brimstone family, including a quick-firing, anti-swarm 'Sea Spear'.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/uk-advances-air-launched-weapons-initiative|title=U.K. Advances Air-Launched Weapons Initiative &#124; Aviation Week Network|website=aviationweek.com|access-date=2 November 2022|archive-date=2 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221102133940/https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/uk-advances-air-launched-weapons-initiative|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mbda-systems.com/brimstone-solution/brimstone-sea-spear/|title=BRIMSTONE SEA SPEAR – MBDA|website=www.mbda-systems.com|access-date=22 September 2016|archive-date=27 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160927104620/http://www.mbda-systems.com/brimstone-solution/brimstone-sea-spear/|url-status=live}}</ref> In November 2021, Defence Procurement Minister Jeremy Quin suggested that full operating capability for SPEAR-3 on F-35 might occur in around 2028.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-rows-back-on-plans-to-acquire-new-anti-ship-missiles-before-2030s/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211104094541/https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-rows-back-on-plans-to-acquire-new-anti-ship-missiles-before-2030s/ |archive-date=4 November 2021 |title=Royal Navy rows back on plans to acquire new anti-ship missiles before 2030s {{!}} Navy Lookout}}</ref>
*The [[FC/ASW]] (Future Cruise/Anti Ship Weapon)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mbda-systems.com/uk-france-confirm-fcasw-conception-phase-starting-march-2017/|title=UK AND FRANCE CONFIRM FC/ASW CONCEPTION PHASE STARTING IN MARCH 2017|date=16 December 2016|publisher=MBDA|access-date=6 April 2017|archive-date=7 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170407054654/http://www.mbda-systems.com/uk-france-confirm-fcasw-conception-phase-starting-march-2017/|url-status=live}}</ref> is a future anti-ship cruise missile planned for the Royal Navy and the French Navy. MBDA has presented [[Perseus (missile)|Perseus]], a supersonic multi-role cruise missile concept study<ref>{{cite web|url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201719/cmselect/cmdfence/1071/1071.pdf|title=13th Report – Future Anti-Ship Missile Systems: Joint inquiry with the Assemblée nationale's Standing Committee on National Defence and the Armed Forces|date=12 December 2018|work=UK House of Commons Defence Select Committee|access-date=13 December 2018|archive-date=13 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181213014752/https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201719/cmselect/cmdfence/1071/1071.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> which was unveiled at the Paris 2011 Air Show. In the 2016 UK-France Security Summit, the two parties pledged to work on a "joint concept phase for the Future Cruise/Anti-Ship Weapon (FC/ASW) programme to identify solutions for replacement of the Scalp/Storm Shadow missiles, for both countries, Harpoon for the UK and Exocet for France." In 2021, Jeremy Quin indicated that the plan was to equip the ''Type 26-class'' frigates with the missile from 2028.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Royal Navy's Type 26 Frigates to be equipped with cruise missiles by 2028 {{!}} Navy Lookout|url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navys-type-26-frigates-to-be-equipped-with-cruise-missiles-by-2028/|access-date=2021-07-11|website=www.navylookout.com|date=9 July 2021|archive-date=9 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709134038/https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navys-type-26-frigates-to-be-equipped-with-cruise-missiles-by-2028/|url-status=live}}</ref> In October 2021 it was reported that the project had been put "on hold", at least temporarily, by France in response to the UK role in Australia's decision to cancel the acquisition of French-designed conventional submarines.<ref name="latribune">{{cite news |last1=Cabirol |first1=Michel |title=Sous-marins australiens : le programme franco-britannique de missiles de croisière en suspens |language=French |url=https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/sous-marins-australiens-le-programme-franco-britannique-de-missiles-de-croisiere-en-suspens-893639.html |access-date=3 November 2021 |work=[[La Tribune]] |date=4 October 2021 |archive-date=2 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211102110553/https://www.latribune.fr/entreprises-finance/industrie/aeronautique-defense/sous-marins-australiens-le-programme-franco-britannique-de-missiles-de-croisiere-en-suspens-893639.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="meretmarine1">{{cite news |last1=GroizeIeau |first1=Vincent |title=Missiles : le programme franco-britannique FMAN/FMC en suspens |url=https://www.meretmarine.com/fr/content/missiles-le-programme-franco-britannique-fmanfmc-en-suspens |access-date=3 November 2021 |work=Mer et Marine |date=1 October 2021 |language=French |archive-date=27 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211127020744/https://www.meretmarine.com/fr/content/missiles-le-programme-franco-britannique-fmanfmc-en-suspens |url-status=live }}</ref> Then in November the First Sea Lord, Admiral Tony Radakin, told the House of Commons Select Defence Committee that options for FC/ASW were still "being looked at" including potential hypersonic weapons. This might in fact delay the introduction of these weapons until the 2030s.<ref name=":0" /> 
*A prior information notice (PIN) for contracts was announced on 5 March 2019 for a Next Generation Interim Surface Ship Guided Weapon (I-SSGW), that is, an anti-ship missile to replace the Royal Navy's [[Harpoon (missile)|Harpoon Block 1C]] missiles on five of the ''Type-23-class'' frigates.<ref name="navaltoday1">{{cite news |title=Royal Navy seeking interim surface to surface missiles for five Type 23 frigates |url=https://www.navaltoday.com/2019/08/22/royal-navy-seeking-interim-surface-to-surface-missiles-for-five-type-23-frigates/ |access-date=3 November 2021 |work=Naval Today |date=22 August 2019 |archive-date=22 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211022024205/https://www.navaltoday.com/2019/08/22/royal-navy-seeking-interim-surface-to-surface-missiles-for-five-type-23-frigates/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The possible candidates for the requirement were the Harpoon Block II+, [[AGM-158C LRASM|LRASM]], [[Naval Strike Missile]], [[RBS-15|RBS15 Mk4]], [[Exocet|Exocet Block 3C]], [[Gabriel (missile)|Gabriel V missile]], [[SSM-700K Haeseong|C-star]], [[Type 90 Ship-to-Ship Missile]] or [[Hsiung Feng III]].<ref>{{cite web |author=Ministry of Defence, Weapons, Torpedoes, Tomahawk and Harpoon Project Team |url=https://ted.europa.eu/TED/notice/udl?uri=TED:NOTICE:111467-2019:TEXT:EN:HTML&src=0 |title=United Kingdom-Bristol: Anti-ship missiles |publisher=ted.europa.eu |date=5 March 2019 |access-date=12 March 2019 |archive-date=29 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191229182439/https://ted.europa.eu/TED/notice/udl?uri=TED:NOTICE:111467-2019:TEXT:EN:HTML&src=0 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Xavier Vavasseur |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2019/03/uk-mod-issues-notice-for-interim-ssgw-anti-ship-missiles/ |title=UK MoD Issues Notice for Interim SSGW Anti-Ship Missiles |publisher=Naval News |date=8 March 2019 |access-date=12 March 2019 |archive-date=15 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190715011542/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2019/03/uk-mod-issues-notice-for-interim-ssgw-anti-ship-missiles/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A contract notice was issued on 22 August 2019 for an "Interim Surface to Surface Guided Weapon System (I-SSGW)", requesting for an over-the-horizon anti ship capability and a terrain-following precision land attack capability. The land attack requirement had been likely to disqualify the Harpoon, Exocet and C-Star from the competition.<ref>{{cite web |author=Ministry of Defence, Weapons, Torpedoes, Tomahawk and Harpoon Project Team |url=https://ted.europa.eu/udl?uri=TED:NOTICE:397419-2019:TEXT:EN:HTML&src=0 |title=United Kingdom-Bristol: Missiles 2019/S 161-397419 Contract notice Supplies |work=Ted - tenders electronic daily: [[Official Journal of the European Union|Supplement to the Official Journal of the EU]] |publisher=ted.europa.eu |date=22 August 2019 |access-date=22 August 2019 |archive-date=27 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191227132301/https://ted.europa.eu/udl?uri=TED:NOTICE:397419-2019:TEXT:EN:HTML&src=0 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Xavier Vavasseur and Nathan Gain |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2019/08/uk-mod-further-details-interim-anti-ship-missile-need-through-contract-notice/ |title=UK MoD Further Details Interim Anti-Ship Missile Need Through Contract Notice |publisher=Naval News |date=22 August 2019 |access-date=22 August 2019 |archive-date=22 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190822100012/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2019/08/uk-mod-further-details-interim-anti-ship-missile-need-through-contract-notice/ |url-status=live }}</ref> However, in November 2021 the First Sea Lord, Admiral Tony Radakin, told the House of Commons Select Defence Committee that the program "had been paused" and seemed likely to be cancelled.<ref name=":0" /> The project was confirmed to have been cancelled in February 2022.<ref>{{cite news |last=Scott |first=Richard |date=February 16, 2022 |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/uk-confirms-cancellation-of-i-ssgw-programme |title=UK confirms cancellation of I-SSGW programme |work=[[Janes Information Services]] |access-date=February 20, 2022 |archive-date=20 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220220112719/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/uk-confirms-cancellation-of-i-ssgw-programme |url-status=live }}</ref> Even so, in July 2022 Defence Secretary Ben Wallace indicated that the project might be resurrected yet again.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/britain-resurrects-anti-ship-missile-project/ | title=Britain resurrects anti-ship missile project | date=5 July 2022 | access-date=5 July 2022 | archive-date=5 July 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220705200325/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/britain-resurrects-anti-ship-missile-project/ | url-status=live }}</ref> In November 2022, the [[Naval Strike Missile]] was purchased to be fitted to 11 Type 45 destroyers and Type 23 frigates. Initial delivery of the first systems was anticipated by the end of 2023.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/11/royal-navy-selects-kongsbergs-naval-strike-missile/ | title=Royal Navy selects Kongsberg's Naval Strike Missile | date=23 November 2022 | access-date=24 November 2022 | archive-date=24 November 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221124213151/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/11/royal-navy-selects-kongsbergs-naval-strike-missile/ | url-status=live }}</ref> In December 2023, [[HMS Somerset (F82)|HMS Somerset]] became the first Royal Navy warship to be equipped with the missile.<ref>{{cite tweet |url=https://twitter.com/NavyLookout/status/1736708119323893959?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet|title=@NavyLookout First view of Royal Navy warship equipped with the Naval Strike Missile. |number=1736708119323893959 |user=NavyLookout |author=Navy Lookout |date=18 December 2023 |access-date=18 December 2023}}</ref>
* The [[Government of the United Kingdom|British Government]] announced on 5 January 2017 that it had awarded a £30 million contract to UK consortium 'Dragonfire' to develop a directed energy weapon technology demonstrator. Their intention is to have a working prototype ready by the end of the decade and potentially have vessels equipped with directed energy weapons by the mid-2020s.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2017/january/06/170106-lasers|title=Whitehall invests £30m in laser weapon to protect ships from attack by air and sea|date=6 January 2017|access-date=6 January 2017|archive-date=7 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170107004942/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2017/january/06/170106-lasers|url-status=live}}</ref> In July 2022, the system began a series of trials to prove the accuracy and power of the weapon.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/07/uks-dragonfire-laser-directed-energy-weapon-started-trials/ | title=UK's Dragonfire Laser Directed Energy Weapon Started Trials | date=18 July 2022 | access-date=19 July 2022 | archive-date=18 July 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220718121318/https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2022/07/uks-dragonfire-laser-directed-energy-weapon-started-trials/ | url-status=live }}</ref> In April 2024, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps stated that the U.K. aimed to deploy [[DragonFire (weapon)|Dragonfire]] on Royal Navy warships by 2027 - five years earlier than previously planned.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2024/apr/12/royal-navy-to-mount-dragonfire-lasers-on-warships-/ |title=Royal Navy to mount DragonFire lasers on warships in 2027, 5 years earlier than expected |website=The Washington Times |last=Glenn |first=Mike |date=12 April 2024|access-date=13 April 2024}}</ref>
*In July 2019, the UK issued a Prior Information Notice for Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) demonstrators.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mod-to-develop-cutting-edge-laser-and-radio-frequency-weapons|title=MOD to develop cutting-edge laser and radio frequency weapons|date=9 July 2019|access-date=9 July 2019|archive-date=9 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190709113146/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mod-to-develop-cutting-edge-laser-and-radio-frequency-weapons|url-status=live}}</ref> This differs from the above Dragonfire as it combines multiple laser beams to produce a weapon more powerful than its predecessors and resistant to the most challenging environmental conditions.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2019/july/10/190710-mod-130m-lasers|title=MOD £130m investment into lasers|date=10 July 2010|access-date=10 July 2019|archive-date=10 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190710150131/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2019/july/10/190710-mod-130m-lasers|url-status=live}}</ref>

== Navigation and communication ==
*In January 2016, it was announced that a £44m Navigation Radar Programme would see "more than 60 Royal Navy ships, submarines and shore facilities" fitted with state-of-the-art navigation radars, with contracts awarded to Lockheed Martin Integrated Systems UK and [[Kelvin Hughes]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-navigation-radar-system-for-royal-navy|title=New navigation radar system for Royal Navy – GOV.UK|website=www.gov.uk|access-date=20 September 2016|archive-date=30 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170630023422/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-navigation-radar-system-for-royal-navy|url-status=live}}</ref>
*The MoD is reportedly investing heavily in development of [[quantum compass]]es which could potentially transcend the need for GPS as a means of navigation, providing a self-contained and interference-proof alternative.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.ft.com/content/4cac5a24-db68-11e3-94ad-00144feabdc0 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20221211/https://www.ft.com/content/4cac5a24-db68-11e3-94ad-00144feabdc0 |archive-date=11 December 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=MoD's 'quantum compass' offers potential to replace GPS|newspaper=Financial Times|date=14 May 2014|publisher=ft.com}}{{subscription required}}</ref> Deployment of this technology is often discussed with regard to the Royal Navy's submarine fleet, allowing vessels to navigate without outside assistance and therefore remain submerged for extended lengths of time.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theengineer.co.uk/issues/may-2014-online/quantum-technology-to-help-submarines-find-their-way/|title=Quantum technology to help submarines find their way – The Engineer The Engineer|website=www.theengineer.co.uk|access-date=20 September 2016|archive-date=17 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170217134746/https://www.theengineer.co.uk/issues/may-2014-online/quantum-technology-to-help-submarines-find-their-way/|url-status=live}}</ref>
*In December 2018, it was announced that a £23m agreement to provide Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships with new radios had been signed. The radios will be installed on 39 ships in total, including 13 Type 23 Frigates, 4 survey and ice patrol vessels, 13 minehunters and 9 RFA supply ships and will be used to communicate with other ships, ports and aircraft during operations. They will replace numerous older radios and as more modern pieces of equipment, they are easier to use/maintain, can be updated via software and operated remotely. Under the contract, Thales will develop, fit and support a V/UHF radio solution which includes the acquisition of around 300 Rohde & Schwarz radios. The first radio will enter service on a Type 23 Frigate in 2020, with all radios due to be delivered and installed by the end of 2023.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/new-radios-ordered-for-royal-navy-and-rfa-ships/|title=New radios ordered for Royal Navy and RFA ships|first=George|last=Allison|date=6 December 2018|access-date=5 March 2019|archive-date=6 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306042827/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/new-radios-ordered-for-royal-navy-and-rfa-ships/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==See also==
{{Portal|United Kingdom}}
*[[List of active Royal Navy ships]]
*[[Future of the Royal Air Force]]
*[[Army 2020 Refine]]
* [[Future of the United States Navy]]
* [[Future of the Royal Australian Navy]]
* [[Future of the Brazilian Navy]]
* [[Future of the French Navy]]
* [[Future of the Indian Navy]]
* [[Future of the Royal Netherlands Navy]]
* [[Future of the Russian Navy]]
* [[List of future Spanish Navy ships|Future of the Spanish Navy]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==

{{Naval Service (British)}}
{{British Armed Forces}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Future of the Royal Navy}}
[[Category:Royal Navy]]
[[Category:Military planning]]