At home on the high seas, just as powerful on land: ready to defend our nation’s interests at a moment’s notice.
Safeguarding territorial waters. Hunting pirates. Delivering humanitarian aid.
Whatever the mission, our fleet - from formidable aircraft carriers and destroyers, to minehunters and patrol vessels - gives us the capacity to respond rapidly to any eventuality by ocean, sea or river.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year: we have to be constantly prepared to stabilise the seas and keep trade flowing.
Positioned in key points across the globe, we’re able to monitor, assess and take action whenever and wherever there’s a threat. The UK economy - and the peace of our nation and allies - depend on it.
Silent and secretive. Our submarine fleet plays a powerful role in protecting and defending the high seas.
Using potent torpedoes and precision land-attack missiles, our underwater fleet can seek out and destroy surface vessels, other submarines and land targets - before enemies even know we’re there.
With world-leading tech in our arsenal, we have the freedom to lead national, coalition and nuclear deterrent missions.
Our Vanguard class submarines - the UK’s strategic nuclear deterrent force - are continually in operation: patrolling the world’s oceans undetected, ready to strike at any time.
Their presence alone sends the most powerful message to anyone who would do us harm. That message will be stronger than ever when our fearsome new breed of submarine, the Dreadnought class, comes in to service.
Technologically-advanced aircraft and world-leading expertise. Our Fleet Air Arm delivers the air power required to maintain the UK’s influence over sea, air and land.
Unlike other forces operating by air, we have a unique advantage: floating platforms that bring our helicopters and jets to waters around the world - opening up our reach and giving us the freedom and agility to operate our aircraft from wherever they’re needed
Attacking on the offensive. Hunting submarines. Intercepting suspect craft. From combat missions to humanitarian aid, we’re ready to strike and support our global operations at a moment’s notice.
With some of the world’s most advanced rotary and fixed wing aircraft, the Fleet Air Arm gives us the upper hand in the most testing environments.
The first to understand. The first to adapt and respond. The first to overcome.
Fully integrated with the Royal Navy’s amphibious ships, our Royal Marines can be deployed globally without host nation support - and projected stealthily from the sea to conduct operations on land.
Some of the toughest fighters on the planet. Going where others won’t, doing things others can’t. Royal Marines Commandos go through some of the most rigorous training on the planet, so they’re ready to deal with a wide spectrum of threats and security challenges.
Embarking on some of the British military’s toughest operations takes a unique set of personal qualities and skills - and an unflinching commitment to our ethos.
Fully integrated into operations around the world, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) provides vital support on everything from high-tempo combat and counter-piracy campaigns, to disaster relief and emergency evacuations.
Highly trained and working to the same standards as other military personnel. Professionally qualified seafarers, trained and educated to recognised international maritime standards.
With a deep understanding of military operations and protocol, they’re a world-leading civilian force - and essential to our global success.
