A parliamentary question from Mark Francois, Conservative MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, seeks information on the planned timetable for RFA Fort Victoria to rejoin the active fleet.
Responding on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, Minister of State Maria Eagle stated that “RFA Fort Victoria is in a period of planned maintenance, which was delayed to prioritise higher priority outputs. We do not disclose the details of forward availability forecasts to preserve the operational security of the fleet, however I can confirm that she will be regenerated in accordance with defence requirements.”
Publicly available information indicates that RFA Fort Victoria underwent refit in 2022 for an engine upgrade and other repairs, with initial reports suggesting a return to active operations in December of that year.
In May 2023, however, further reports emerged of significant mechanical issues that delayed full crew availability, although officials suggested the vessel could still support an urgent carrier group deployment if necessary.
By early 2024, the ship remained at the Cammell Laird shipyard in reported poor condition, and was expected to continue in refit through much of that year. Towards late 2024, RFA Fort Victoria was said to be heading into an extended period of reduced readiness.
While these updates have led to questions over her precise availability, the Ministry of Defence maintains that operational requirements guide the vessel’s regeneration. However, it is understood that a Norwegian stores vessel will now accompany the upcoming Carrier Strike Grou 25 deployment to the Pacific.
