Britain terminates plan to buy new autonomous survey vessel
The Ministry of Defence has formally terminated plans to procure an uncrewed surface vessel under Project Lily, bringing an end to a programme that had been expected to deliver a contractor-supported autonomous platform for survey work.
Warship downs drone swarm off British coast in exercise
Dutch warship Evertsen tracked and neutralised aerial targets while also engaging and sinking uncrewed surface vessels as part of Exercise Sharpshooter.
Shipbuilding debate raises yard access and fraud concerns
Ministers faced questions over naval shipbuilding, with MPs pressing on export claims, access for domestic yards, foreign suppliers and the impact of fraud.
Norway considers reducing Type 26 Frigate purchase
Norwegian defence planners are considering reducing the number of new Type 26 frigates purchased from the UK from five to three.
Sonobuoy contract for Royal Navy Merlin anti-sub force
The Royal Navy Merlin helicopter force is set to receive a major boost after the Ministry of Defence awarded a £40 million contract to Ultra Maritime to supply new sonobuoys.
Kongsberg Maritime set to spin off as independent company
Kongsberg Maritime is formally on track to become a stand-alone company after shareholders approved the separation at an extraordinary general meeting of Kongsberg Gruppen.
UK rules out funding Scottish steel for new support ships
The Ministry of Defence has confirmed it will not directly fund the supply of steel slabs from British Steel Scunthorpe plant to Liberty Steel Dalzell works for use on the new Fleet Solid Support ships, placing responsibility for sourcing materials firmly with the prime contractor.
Security of Scottish islands questioned in Parliament
Ministers were pressed in the Commons to clarify whether the government is reassessing the strategic significance of Shetland and surrounding waters, amid heightened Russian maritime activity and a renewed focus on the High North.
UK prepares to shoulder greater NATO capability burden
The UK has acknowledged concerns over European reliance American capabilities, but stopped short of committing to leading the replacement should Washington reduce its presence.
UK rejects calls for second British nuclear weapon system
The government has rejected calls to explore a second sovereign method of delivering UK nuclear weapons, arguing that the existing submarine-based system remains the most credible option as nuclear risks increase.
