LONDON — The future size and composition of the Royal Navy is currently under review, as part of the UK’s forthcoming Strategic Defence Review, according to Minister of State for Defence, Maria Eagle. The review is set to play a crucial role in determining how the Navy and broader UK Defence will address the emerging challenges of the twenty-first century.

In a recent statement, Eagle confirmed that the review will assess the resources available, with a defence spending trajectory aimed at 2.5% of the UK’s GDP. “The review will determine the roles, capabilities, and reforms required by UK Defence, including the Royal Navy, to meet the challenges, threats, and opportunities of the twenty-first century, deliverable and affordable within the resources available to Defence,” Eagle said. The full report is expected in the first half of 2025.

This review comes at a critical time for the Royal Navy, which, despite facing concerns over reduced numbers and crewing issues, has managed to increase the availability of its key vessels. Approximately 47% of the Navy’s escort fleet, including Type 45 Destroyers and Type 23 Frigates, are now reported to be active or deployable, reflecting efforts to improve operational readiness.

Currently, the Navy operates six Type 45 Destroyers, of which only two—HMS Dauntless and HMS Duncan—are fully active, with the latter deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Type 23 Frigates are showing better availability, with five out of nine vessels active. HMS Lancaster is deployed in the Persian Gulf, while HMS Iron Duke and HMS Somerset are operating in the English Channel.

These figures represent an improvement over earlier this year, when many vessels were undergoing maintenance or refit. The availability of Type 45 Destroyers has increased by 17%, while Type 23 Frigates have seen a 26% improvement, suggesting more effective fleet management and maintenance practices are being implemented.

The Royal Navy’s strategic focus on maximising the readiness of its existing fleet signals a commitment to ensuring a larger proportion of ships are available for immediate deployment. This focus aligns with the broader goals of the Strategic Defence Review, which aims to optimise resources and respond effectively to global threats.

As the review progresses, it will likely provide clearer guidance on whether the Royal Navy’s fleet will see further expansion or restructuring to meet modern defence needs.