The 2010 naval plan lists continuous deterrence, defence of the United Kingdom and South Atlantic territories, enduring overseas presence, intervention from surface ships and submarines, and an 800-person commando landing capability. Its target fleet nevertheless falls to seven Astute-class submarines, one operational carrier with a second at extended readiness, 19 destroyers and frigates, 14 minehunters, and a support fleet scaled down to those totals. The review then orders HMS Ark Royal's immediate retirement, removes four frigates, places a landing-and-command ship at extended readiness, and disposes of another aviation or amphibious platform and a Bay-class ship. This treats spare capacity as a cost inefficiency even though it is what absorbs an unforeseen operation. The reductions left less capacity to perform the missions listed in the same plan.
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Future Force 2020 reduced the naval system behind its missions
Future Force 2020 promised deterrence, presence, intervention, and amphibious operations while reducing the carriers, escorts, minehunters, and landing ships that would generate those forces.