The announcement on Wednesday detailed the Ministry of Defence’s decision to cut several naval assets in a cost-saving effort, including two amphibious assault ships, HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark. Additionally, logistics vessels RFA Wave Knight, RFA Wave Ruler, and the frigate HMS Northumberland, which is currently undergoing a refit due to significant structural damage, will also be decommissioned.
According to Defence Minister Rachel Eagle, the cuts—despite facing criticism from opposition parties—are aimed at achieving immediate financial relief, saving £150 million in operational costs over the next two years. Over a broader five-year span, the savings are projected to reach £500 million.
“The money saved through these measures,” Eagle explained, “will enable us to focus on addressing the strategic threats of the future rather than maintaining ships that are unlikely to return to operational service.”
However, opposition voices, particularly from the right-wing Reform UK party, are strongly critical. Deputy Leader Richard Tice described the plan as a move that “not only undermines our military’s readiness but also, at a time of rising global tensions, leaves us exposed and vulnerable.”
Strengthening Defense Ties with Germany
Meanwhile, Eagle traveled to Germany’s port city to advance progress on a defense cooperation pact signed in London last month by U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey and his German counterpart Boris Pistorius. This agreement lays the groundwork for collaboration on strategic defense initiatives, including the development of deep precision strike missile capabilities, joint procurement efforts, and cooperative monitoring of subsea infrastructure.
The pact signals a deepening of ties between the two nations, representing a broader commitment to strengthening military capabilities in the face of shared security challenges.
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