The Ministry of Defence has declined to provide details on how Defence Munitions Crombie is being used by the Royal Navy, citing operational security while confirming the site remains a key enabler for operations in the North Sea, High North and Euro-Atlantic.
The response came after questions from Graeme Downie, Labour MP for Dunfermline and Dollar, who asked the Ministry of Defence about the role of DM Crombie in protecting the High North and North Sea subsea infrastructure, its impact on transit times for Royal Navy vessels, and whether further investment such as refuelling capability was under consideration.
In a written reply, defence minister Luke Pollard said the Royal Navy and Defence Infrastructure Organisation work closely to ensure infrastructure supports operational continuity, describing DM Crombie as central to current naval activity.
“DM Crombie remains a key support enabler for Defence and continues to offer operational flexibility to the RN and RFA Fleet along with Allied Partners operating in the North Sea, Euro-Atlantic and High North regions,” Pollard said.
However, he repeatedly declined to provide further detail on how frequently the facility is used, the condition of its jetties, or any future upgrades, pointing to security constraints.
“For operational security reasons, the Royal Navy will not release the movements of Royal Navy and RFA vessels in and out of DM Crombie over the next five years, nor comment on the specific material condition of operational infrastructure at DM Crombie,” the minister added.
The same formulation was used when asked about the potential merits of increasing Royal Navy use of the site, the impact on patrol transit times, and whether refuelling capability might be added. No confirmation was given on planned infrastructure improvements or timelines for the jetty to be fully operational.
Located on the upper Firth of Forth in West Fife, Defence Munitions Crombie has operated as a naval logistics and munitions site since 1916. The depot has deep-water access and jetties capable of supporting Royal Navy warships and Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessels, allowing resupply operations close to key operating areas in the North Sea.
The site also hosts a US Navy cooperative security location, providing logistical support for American and allied forces operating in northern Europe, underscoring its role within wider NATO maritime activity. While the government response confirms DM Crombie’s ongoing strategic relevance, it leaves unanswered questions about how intensively the site is being used and whether further investment is planned.
