Recommendation 27

In the meantime, the MoD is considering mothballing Royal Navy ships because of crew shortages, and the only Royal Navy ship able to fully replenish the UK’s aircraft carriers is unavailable this year because of a refit.86 With the support of its allies, the UK’s Armed Forces continue to fulfil a crucial international role.87 However, many of its allies are facing similar challenges to the UK, which might affect their ability and willingness to continue providing extensive support.88 77 Qq 39, 40 78 Q 41; C&AG’s Report, para 2.5 79 Q 41 80 Qq 76, 116, 118, 120 81 Q 61 82 Qq 8, 11, 49 83 Qq 8, 54 84 Qq 10, 11 85 Qq 6, 125 86 Qq 41, 43, 48–50 87 Q 54 88 Qq 108, 117 16 MoD Equipment Plan 2023–2033