Plans to build a new destroyer to replace Britain's ageing warships have been scrapped. This change is part of revisions to the long-awaited defence investment plan aimed at prioritising drones and modernising the military.
The revised strategy aims to create what officials describe as a "hybrid Navy" by focusing on uncrewed systems rather than traditional manned destroyers for immediate replacement roles.
Officials stated that the Royal Navy will instead procure at least six so-called "common combat vessels," or CCVs. These new ships are described as command hubs for uncrewed systems.
The delivery of these common combat vessels is expected in the 2030s, according to officials.
Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis is reported to have secured an extra £1 billion for the plan. Sources indicate this funding supports the shift toward uncrewed capabilities within the fleet structure.
Sir Keir Starmer is expected to unveil a blueprint for future-proofing the UK's armed forces in the coming days, according to reports published on June 28th, 2026. The timeline notes that Sir Keir Starmer plans to leave No 10 as soon as July 20.
The new vessels are part of efforts to expand the Navy's reach and firepower without a "proportional increase" in crew or cost, sources state.