Q&A · 54:09-54:25

Do modern governments repeat Fisher's presence gap?

Type 31 frigates and River-class patrol ships address presence missions, though both types require greater numbers.

Question

Are modern governments following Fisher by prioritizing battle vessels and forgetting presence missions?

Short answer

Type 31 and River-class ships address presence, though substantially more are needed.

Notes

The Type 31 frigate is presented as an attempt to restore a dedicated presence capability, alongside the River-class patrol ships. Both programmes address routine presence, though neither provides enough hulls to cover the number of places in which the Royal Navy is expected to appear. The answer therefore accepts the policy direction while arguing for substantially more ships.