6
Conclusion
Third Report - “We’re going to need a b…
Acknowledged
The Royal Navy should be proud of its position as one of the leading global navies and its ability to deliver and operate two aircraft carriers. The carrier strike group deployment has shown that, when working with allies, the Navy can deliver a task group able to meet the goals …
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The Royal Navy should be proud of its position as one of the leading global navies and its ability to deliver and operate two aircraft carriers. The carrier strike group deployment has shown that, when working with allies, the Navy can deliver a task group able to meet the goals of establishing presence, building relationships with partners and supporting trade. The servicemen and women and civilian staff who worked hard to deliver the deployment should be proud of their achievement. We note that the loss of the F-35 plane, which is still being managed as we write this report, is a significant incident, and we are thankful for the safe recovery of the pilot.
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Government response AI summary
The government's response directly mirrored the committee's conclusion, acknowledging the Royal Navy's achievements and position as a leading global navy, without adding further comment.
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Ministry of Defence
20
Recommendation
Third Report - “We’re going to need a b…
Acknowledged
The Ministry of Defence should investigate claims that each PIP upgrade could be delivered in less than twelve months and confirm in its response what if any barriers there are to speeding up the programme. The response should also confirm whether an SRO has been appointed for the PIP. If …
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The Ministry of Defence should investigate claims that each PIP upgrade could be delivered in less than twelve months and confirm in its response what if any barriers there are to speeding up the programme. The response should also confirm whether an SRO has been appointed for the PIP. If not, one should be appointed and they should be prepared to provide the Committee with an annual report on the programme within six months of appointment, and then annually. If necessary, we will expect the SRO to answer additional questions on their programmes in a public evidence session.
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Government response AI summary
The government affirmed timely delivery of PIP is a priority and identified Director General Ships as having ultimate responsibility, but did not explicitly confirm an investigation into speeding up the programme or commit to specific annual reports from an appointed SRO to the Committee.
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Ministry of Defence
22
Conclusion
Third Report - “We’re going to need a b…
Acknowledged
The next decade is one of significant risk for the Royal Navy’s fleet. During a period when it is being expected to take on increased responsibilities in a deteriorating international security environment, the Navy will be relying on a mix of elderly vessels (like the Type 23 frigates) and new …
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The next decade is one of significant risk for the Royal Navy’s fleet. During a period when it is being expected to take on increased responsibilities in a deteriorating international security environment, the Navy will be relying on a mix of elderly vessels (like the Type 23 frigates) and new and untested assets and processes (like the uncrewed mine countermeasures), while also being constrained by a tight budget for operations and maintenance that will force it to change how it operates. In addition, crucial programmes like the Crowsnest early warning system, the Type 45 Power Improvement Project and introduction of the Naval Strike Network will not be completed for several years, all of which incurs risk. The Navy will also be forced to carry capability gaps in medical facilities and anti-ship missiles, because of the retirement of RFA Argus and Harpoon, and likely also in its ability to monitor critical national infrastructure and deliver support shipping and logistics, because of the uncertain in-service date of the Multi-Role Ocean Surveillance Ship and delays to the Fleet Solid Support ship programme. The lack of Fleet Solid Support ships is a particular concern because it threatens the Navy’s ability to deliver a force with a sovereign core that can act independently of allies.
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the risks to the Royal Navy fleet, stating that significant upgrades are funded, risks are being actively managed, and options for future offensive weapons and medical support are being explored or brought into service.
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Ministry of Defence