What would an ideal Royal Navy composition look like if spending and acquisition were at the right level?
Short answerThe proposal combines two carriers and three F-35-capable LHDs with seven escort groups, substantial uncrewed support, logistics ships, about fourteen attack submarines, and seven or eight common-design ballistic- or cruise-missile submarines.
NotesThe proposal retains two carriers and adds three F-35-capable LHDs, aiming to keep at least one carrier and one LHD available with another major ship ready when needed. Each of seven escort groups would contain two air-defence destroyers, two primary anti-submarine frigates, and two flak frigates, represented by Type 45, Type 26, and Type 31 respectively. Eighteen large uncrewed surface vessels would accompany each group, giving three to each crewed escort. A deployed battle group would also need a solid-stores ship, at least two tankers, and an SSN. An initial estimate of twelve SSNs rises to about fourteen to cover group support and other missions. Seven or eight submarines would share an SSBN design, with three or four fitted for cruise missiles as SSGNs. Keeping at least one of each missile role at sea would create uncertainty about the purpose of a departing boat. Patrol ships and drone-control equipment aboard the crewed warships complete the proposal.