In a recent keynote presentation at the 2025 DSEI UK show in London, Gen. Gwyn Jenkins, the chief of the U.K. Royal Navy, announced a significant operational shift towards utilizing uncrewed vessels over crewed options when feasible. This change reflects a new mantra for the Royal Navy, with a focus on enhancing maritime warfare capabilities.

**Mission and Vision for the Future**

Gen. Jenkins emphasized the need to elevate the Royal Navy to a state of war-fighting readiness within the next four years. He articulated a vision aimed at positioning the U.K. at the forefront of autonomous maritime warfare, stating, “We will create a larger and more lethal fleet with greater agility and resilience.” The guiding principle for this operational overhaul is described as “uncrewed when possible, and crewed only when necessary.”

**Innovation and Fleet Enhancement**

The Navy chief mentioned plans for a hybrid air wing composed of both crewed and uncrewed platforms, which is expected to be implemented by the end of the decade. These advancements are intended to augment the U.K.’s carrier strike group operations, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

**Priorities and Fleet Modernization**

Jenkins identified the submarine-launched nuclear deterrent as the highest priority for the Navy, emphasizing a commitment to enhancing innovation, leadership, and agility within the force. Notably, he did not mention the AUKUS agreement, which involves the sharing of nuclear-powered submarine technology between the U.S., U.K., and Australia.

Furthermore, Gen. Jenkins acknowledged the urgent need to replace significant portions of the aging fleet. He specifically pointed out the Type-23 frigates, which were initially designed for an 18-year service life but will have their lifespans extended. The plan includes replacing these vessels with the more advanced Type 26 frigates by 2035.

**Author Bio**

Jaroslaw Adamowski serves as the Poland correspondent for Defense News.