The UK is set to acquire two Littoral Strike Ships with the ability to launch troops and their equipment via helicopters and boats.

Defence Secretary at the time, Gavin Williamson, earlier confirmed that the UK will purchase the vessels:

“Take the Royal Navy. They are exerting British influence through greater forward presence. I want to capitalise on that. Investing now to develop a new Littoral Strike Ship concept. And, if successful, we will look to dramatically accelerate their delivery. These globally deployable, multi-role vessels would be able to conduct a wide range of operations, from crisis support to war-fighting.

They would support our Future Commando Force. Our world-renowned Royal Marines – they’ll be forward deployed, at exceptionally high readiness, and able to respond at a moment’s notice bringing the fight from sea to land.

Our vision is for these ships to form part of 2 Littoral Strike Groups complete with escorts, support vessels and helicopters. One would be based East of Suez in the Indo-Pacific and one based West of Suez in the Mediterranean, Atlantic and Baltic. And, if we ever need them to, our two Littoral Strike Ships, our two aircraft carriers, our two amphibious assault ships Albion and Bulwark, and our three Bay Class landing ships can come together in one amphibious task force. This will give us sovereign, lethal, amphibious force. This will be one of the largest and best such forces anywhere in the world.”

Vessels like this are often called Expeditionary Transfer Dock’s (at least, by the US) and are typically a large auxiliary support ship to facilitate the ‘seabasing’ of an amphibious landing force by acting as a floating base or transfer station that can be prepositioned off the target area.

Troops, equipment, and cargo would be transferred to the vessel by large-draft ships, from where it can be moved ashore by shallower-draft vessels, landing craft like the landing craft or even helicopters.

Is this practical?

The United States already does this with the USNS Lewis B. Puller (pictured above), a floating staging base for U.S. operations in the Central Command Region, an asset that is uniquely suited to facilitate special operations missions.

The vessel has a sister ship, the USNS Hershel “Woody” Williams, there are another three of this ship type planned by the US.

The vessel is a modified Alaska class oil tanker design.

The US Navy say that Puller has the third-largest flight deck in the naval services after aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships and can also launch small boats or unmanned surface vehicles from its mission deck.

In addition, vessels of this type can be configured with containers to support almost any mission.

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George has a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and has a keen interest in naval and cyber security matters and has appeared on national radio and television to discuss current events. George is on Twitter at @geoallison
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Andy
5 years ago

This sounds like a good idea and increases the capability of the Royal Navy. It would be interesting to know whether these will be purpose built and if so where, or whether they will be converted. If purpose built, lets hope they will be classed as warships and built in the UK.

https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/235377

Feel free to sign and share this petition, we’re getting there slowly.

Jack
Jack
5 years ago
Reply to  Andy

Interesting. A conversion along the lines of RFA Argus ?
But with improved facilities to support SF and RM & support helicopters.
Petition signed.

Herodotus
5 years ago
Reply to  Jack

Well done Andy…you got it in again!

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Jack

remove that superstructure fit a full deck HL.P. i hope it will get sufficient means to defend itself unlike the albions.

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Andy

hang on, we’re getting two of these yet we couldn’t replace ocean??

maurice10
5 years ago
Reply to  andy reeves

Who cares, at least these are additional rather than alternatives. We will need this kind of reach, and as I’ve always said, Global Britain means having the equipment to back up international trade with meaningful military assets.

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  maurice10

looking at the picture i can easily imagine that layout could easily be turned into a floating fortress, plenty of room for torpedo searam 76mm gun e.t.c i like the way the russians use every space they can find to put a weapon, we leave capital assets criminally under armed, the albions for instance are very big ships, but have little or no defense to them i’d be interested knowing main specs size,speed,crew size e.t.c.

andy reeves
4 years ago
Reply to  maurice10

GLOBAL BRITAIN? MEDIA HOGWASH

Darren Sharrocks
Darren Sharrocks
4 years ago
Reply to  andy reeves

You can laugh the Royal navy is the the second best navy in world,and it is the only navy out side the US able to plonk 50k troops anywhere in the world. So stop sniffing. If you spend too much on ships eventually they become a drain. The US is having major problems with ships not being maintained and not enough training. This has lead to numerous collisions in the pacific. Build minimal ships for peace time, to keep the peace and keeps skills at home, then expand when needed. https://features.propublica.org/navy-accidents/us-navy-crashes-japan-cause-mccain/ Historical precedent, the Royal navy was in the same… Read more »

Andrew Smith
Andrew Smith
5 years ago
Reply to  andy reeves

No it makes no sense what with the gaping hole in the defence budget as it is. I think it’s all grand standing for a general election in the very near future. More ships rule Britannia…. should score points with some voters

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Andrew Smith

more ships that are WARSHIPS

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Andrew Smith

i’d sooner see another destroyer these are a waste of time

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  andy reeves

is it april 1st? NO, its a P.R stunt

Watcherzero
Watcherzero
5 years ago
Reply to  Andy

They’ve said they are scouting for two cargo or passenger liners that are suitable for conversion.

andy reeves
4 years ago
Reply to  Andy

IS THIS 1ST APRIL???

SiP
SiP
5 years ago

Wouldn’t be surprised if these are built by the Us seeing as they have to knowledge and recent history. So makes logical sense.

Mixed RFA/RN/RM crewed.

Julian
Julian
5 years ago

That’s a surprise. It’s not often that we get the announcement of 2 pretty sizeable new vessels out of the blue. So possibly converted oil tankers with reasonably significant aviation facilities and due to size I assume a good amount of internal space? Doesn’t sound that dissimilar to Argus so perhaps the first one of these coming into service, maybe in combination with the previously talked about possibility of a hospital ship funded by the foreign aid budget, would clear the way for Argus to be decommissioned. If all that happens then one heck of a lot better plan that… Read more »

Fedaykin
Fedaykin
5 years ago
Reply to  Julian

I would say if this comes to be Argus would certainly have to go, I still think a hospital ship is a terrible idea but don’t wish to go over old ground.

For me what is most useful about the idea is it would go some way to replacing RFA Diligence as there would certainly be space for workshops.

It could be a more flexible and useful solution than Argus.

andy reeves
4 years ago
Reply to  Fedaykin

ARGUS?DILIGENCE? STAY ON SUBJECT FFS

Andrew Smith
Andrew Smith
5 years ago
Reply to  Julian

It’s all smoke and mirrors ahead of a GE. Wont happen

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Andrew Smith

agreed

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago

Wow didn’t see this coming. I believe the US pre positions assets at Deigo Garcia, maybe that could be the location of the East of Suez vessel? The DS makes the Amphibs force sound great talking of all 3 Bay and the 2 LPDs joining together. If only that were reality. The spare LPD is a shell I believe when not in use. The 3 Bays coukd be used together if only we had other vessels to be MCMV support ships in the Gulf and another to replace the Bay in the Caribbean. There’s been a lot if talk of… Read more »

Levi Goldsteinberg
Levi Goldsteinberg
5 years ago

Diego Garcia quite possibly, but it was Gavin Williamson himself that announced about a month ago that a base would be built closer to the South China Sea; likely in Brunei or Singapore. Quite possibly that base is planned around supporting an amphibious strike group that these new ships would slot right into

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago

Yes Levi.

And re reading my post, maybe the Bays WILL be released from their roles, by these assets.

andy reeves
5 years ago

will need escorts i think

andy reeves
5 years ago

singapore/ back to sembawang, best run ashore ever bugis street? wow, what memories, there and the ‘gut’ in malta, oh for the good old days of empire.

andy reeves
5 years ago

i’d fear for one of the albions. despite recent comments saying they are safe.

Kevin Rhodes
Kevin Rhodes
5 years ago

What’s the betting an older single hull oiler RFA gets a quick conversion x 2. Job done. Save on budget and provides required platform. Mind you still needs a lot more bodies to man. Will keep reserves busy.

david alcock
david alcock
5 years ago

we had one and just sold it for peanuts to Brazil ex HMS OCEAN!!

Fedaykin
Fedaykin
5 years ago
Reply to  david alcock

We sold Ocean to Brazil for a fair market price as a hot swap as it had been in service for twenty years and the QE class is coming on line. Brazil had a need for a vessel of that type and it helps them out of a bind as the Nao Sao Paulo was no longer economically practical to run on. It allows them to at least keep a toe in the Carrier game until they have made a decision about their planned future indigenous Carrier program. It is a good exercise in UK soft power that ensures Brazil… Read more »

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Fedaykin

the old ocean will carry a few f35’s when brazil can afford them

andy reeves
4 years ago
Reply to  Fedaykin

FAIR PRICE? THE r.n LOST ONE OF ITS PRESTIGIOUS SHIPS AND BADLY AFFECTED ITS CAPABILITY IN THE AMPHIBIOUS ARENA SOFT POWER? NO POWER MORE LIKE

David Steeper
5 years ago
Reply to  david alcock

David let it go. We needed the crew for the Q.E’s.

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  david alcock

I’D IMAGINE A DESIGN VERY MUCH LIKE THE HARPERS FERRY CLASS OF THE USN but they have SEARAM on the bridge roof!

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  andy reeves

if we can suddenly afford these, why was ocean not replaced like for like? or her proposed sister ship built? i smell a con here. (but i’m just a cynic).. i don’t think the t 31e will happen either!!

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago

This Is so very Vague, Are these ships New Builds, Conversions or Pipedreams ?
I don’t seem to remember them being part of the 168 billion. It all sounds a bit at odds with the black Hole in defence funding.
Anyone have any actual facts ?

Mr Bell
Mr Bell
5 years ago

Maybe foreign aid budget. That hasgot £15 billion a year which we seem to squander. Would only take £500 million from that budget to build these 2 forward base vessels. With the loss of Ocean this is a great idea steel is cheap, thus get the largest damnvessel you can afford and cram it with helicopters. A modern day Atlantic conveyor.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

Need the helis first!

CHF has 7 at the moment I believe!

Maybe this was in mind with that announcement of the new Chinooks.

Bob
Bob
5 years ago

CHF currently has 6 Wildcat AH1 and is currently converting its 25 Merlin to the HC4 standard. About 3/4 of CHF’s Merlin aren’t currently being upgraded or in depth maintenance.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Bob

Exactly. I meant those same Merlins.

andy reeves
5 years ago

hang on, we’re getting two of these yet we couldn’t replace ocean??

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

foreign aid last year was 13.2 billion, that’s a good bunch of t31’s (which i’m beginning to think won’t happen).

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

as long as they’re exocet proof. we should have learned not to put all the eggs in one basket.

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

when i google and see how much money and where it goes to i get angrier and angrier! the numbers are a disgrace, millions to nations who harbour and allow terrorists to operate on their soil,(pakistan) the same amount to a nation with the regions biggest economy,(india) another shedload of money to a nation run by inept despots who waste it while those who DO need help go without(nigeria).

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Mr Bell

pointless what beaches are we expecting to storm/ the M.O.D hasn’t a clue the type 31 looks less likely to happen whenever a P.R stunt like this is made.

andy reeves
5 years ago

the best known facts are, that the M.O.D CANNOT BE TRUSTED

David Flandry
David Flandry
5 years ago

They are conversions based on info from Defense News. Wonder where they will get the crew?

Harry Nelson
Harry Nelson
5 years ago

Where is the money coming from and also the crew??

Dean
Dean
5 years ago
Reply to  Harry Nelson

I second the where is the crew coming from? we cant even man our current ships let alone 2 new ones. the forces need to drag themselves up to compete in the work market, civvy street is far more appetising straight out of school these days

Mr Bell
Mr Bell
5 years ago
Reply to  Harry Nelson

DFID has £15 billion that is squandered every year. Order 4 of these vessels and fund the crew and helicopters and boats and all operational costs from DFID and label them disaster relief vessels. Creative accountancy, the Tory party know all about that.

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Harry Nelson

foreign aid and press gangs!

David Steeper
5 years ago
Reply to  andy reeves

Where is the money coming from ? No idea. The crew ? RFA ?

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  andy reeves

when i google and see how much money and where it goes to i get angrier and angrier! the numbers are a disgrace, millions to nations who harbour and allow terrorists to operate on their soil,(pakistan) the same amount to a nation with the regions biggest economy,(india) another shedload of money to a nation run by inept despots who waste it while those who DO need help go without(nigeria). the millions going to syria and afghanistan are an apology for bombing the cr*p out of them methinks

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Harry Nelson

the crew will be lower than 100

Albion
Albion
5 years ago

Maybe it could be named HMS Ocean.

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago
Reply to  Albion

Or HMS Pacific and HMS Atlantic ?

Levi Goldsteinberg
Levi Goldsteinberg
5 years ago

Glorious and Furious

Lusty
5 years ago

Ark Royal and Eagle.

Richard Hoare
5 years ago
Reply to  Lusty

Oh, ignore my double posts!

Geoffrey Hicking
Geoffrey Hicking
5 years ago
Reply to  Lusty

Agoniser and Excruciator.

keithdwat
keithdwat
5 years ago
Reply to  Lusty

Cockchafer and Gay Centurion

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Lusty

or h.m.s won’t happen

Andrew
Andrew
5 years ago
Reply to  Lusty

HMS Rainbow and HMS Diversity

Jonny
5 years ago
Reply to  Lusty

HMS Mohammed and HMS Buddha

Ian
Ian
5 years ago

Overlord Class:
HMS Sword, HMS Gold, with the option of a third, HMS Juno.

Steve Salt
5 years ago
Reply to  Ian

Quality.

Lusty
5 years ago
Reply to  Albion

Penny Pinch and Stealth Cuts.

or

Ark Royal and Eagle.

Herodotus
5 years ago
Reply to  Lusty

Gladys and Brenda!

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Lusty

or poodle and beagle

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Lusty

intrepid and fearless

Steven
Steven
5 years ago
Reply to  Albion

HMS Cuck and HMS Simp, funded by the aid budget.

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Albion

H.M.S PIPE DREAM OR H.M.S CANCELLED?

Mark Wallace
5 years ago

Hope they are purpose built as the US ships look ugly.
Also confused how they are different from a normal amphibious ship like we have already? Are they smaller, less navalised or tankers converted on the cheap with a Heli deck and a hanger?

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Mark Wallace

Our LPD with well dock carry LCU LCVP and numbers of RM, as well as considerable C3 facilities.

I envisage these to be much more basic. Floating SF bases basically.

The US has these types of vessels already.

andy reeves
5 years ago

ENOUGH WITH THE ACRONYMS!!!!

David Steeper
5 years ago
Reply to  andy reeves

Know what you mean Andy but if you get rid of acronyms the comments are going to get a lot, lot longer !

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  David Steeper

AT LEAST I’LL BE ABLE TO UNDERSTAND MORE OF THE POINTS THAT BAFFLE ME!!

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  andy reeves

LOL. Can I help you? 🙂

Cam Hunter
Cam Hunter
5 years ago
Reply to  Mark Wallace

I hope they get ordered new with the solid suport ships so thy last longer and are modern and all get built at the same yard in the uk to save money, or even convert two old RFA vessels like the old forts but I think RFA fort George has already been scrapped hasn’t it.

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Cam Hunter

speaking of lasting longer how long did pakistan get out of the 6 type 21’s they had, maybe the first retiring t23 in exchange for their return, refit, upgrading with all new systems could fill the gap waiting for the clyde to actually deliver something! 6 short term frigates bought for very little outlay, might be worth considering? very, very popular and capable ships in their time re equipped with ceptor e.t.c nice especially as they’re already built.

Fedaykin
Fedaykin
5 years ago
Reply to  Mark Wallace

The picture released by 1SL appears to be closely based upon the US MV Ocean which is a conversion from a fast RoRo. It is on the whole a smaller and arguably more handsome solution than the tanker based Expeditionary Transfer Dock.

If this is going to come to be then expect a conversion, there are more than one UK yard that would appreciate the conversion work.

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Mark Wallace

neither, they’re a P.R stunt

Andy
5 years ago

so are these going to be replacing the gap left by HMS Ocean,quite a shock that we are getting 2 I just hope this does not affect the number of frigates,we all know they like to penny pinch so where has the money come from or what is being planned to scrap something else to pay for them??

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Andy

They wont replace Ocean, no.

SF use or company sized RM deployments I’d imagine, using small boats and helicopters.

As for your other worries. I agree.

Maybe the DSF budget, which is considerable, and which is separate from other areas, pays for them?

Riga
Riga
5 years ago

Where is it stated that SF budget is seperate? Should GCHQ et al now come under Defence, I.m confused with SF not being so.

Great idea, where do the boys and girls come from?

Names? Wishful and Thinking.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Riga

GCHQ SIS SS consider Single Intelligence Account. Not part of Defence Budget.

DI does come under Defence Budget as it is indeed a part of the MOD.

DSF reports to the VCDS st the MOD. It’s been stated many times it has it’s own budget separate from the TLBs of the 3 frontline commands and DES.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Riga

Riga.

DSF has it’s own “voice” and funding stream within MoD. Still a part of MoD budget, though separate from that of the other TLBs, Top Level Budgets, Land. Air. Fleet. DI. DES. DIO, etc.

Not separate like thecibtelligence services, which are part of the Home Office and FCO.

Cheers.

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Riga

bashful and snoozy?

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Andy

i still think the removal of a bay superstructure and fitting a full length deck to make a h.l.p would be a better idea, especially as they’re already built.

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Andy

CAN WE HAVE LESS ACRONYMS ON HERE? get lost by half the posts on here lately

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  andy reeves

Apologies Mr Reeves.

I guess FFBNW is gone then?

Missing the Gosport Ferry are we? Or your Archer Squadron?

andy reeves
5 years ago

BAFFLED, THANK YOU, the archers(fanny boats)are a total waste, a squadron of those, say 8 or 9 to replace the poor old sabre. in the gib squadron. and see if they are worth the prefix of h.m.s

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Andy

if these actually do happen, i think the issue of losing albion or bulwark could still happen. like the t 31e i’m having my doubts if they’ll ever happen.

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago

Can’t find anything on any Official site about this. Also, given that they are “Strike” Ships I guess they will be classed as Warships so will be built in the UK ?
It is worrying what might be axed though.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago

They are “Strike ” ships because UKSF and USSOF will delpoy off them using heli.

Floating special ops bases.

We are not talking ocean replacements, amphibious landings, LCU LCVP, armed to the teeth with sea viper !

I’d imagine boats would include RIB, RRC, ORC, and the HSIC used by the SBS and seen racing round Poole harbour on a regular basis.

captain P Wash
captain P Wash
5 years ago

But They are Littoral Ships, I’m guessing they will have some sort of Defensive Systems especially carrying such important “cargo” just off shore. This whole “What Is a Warship” business, just adds to the confusion of our Government Members.
Call them Warships, Build them Here In the UK, preferably in England before we actually lose all Capability.

Then we can have a “National Shipbuilding Program”.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  captain P Wash

I’d hope so Captain, at the very least some guns and the usual Defensive aids.

And yes, build them here. I’d say convert them here more likely. Argus and Dilligence were conversions I recall?

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  captain P Wash

Because that is their role…to loiter off coasts saving the carrier from doing it.

Why would a 3 billion Fleet carrier be needed to launch a couple of Chinooks inland on a mission? Or some small boats or SDV?

Dave
Dave
5 years ago
Reply to  captain P Wash

Littoral in this context is the area of sea influenced from land and area of land influenced from sea. In terms of amphibious operations, it is the range in land the marines can be directly supported from the sea rather than from a forward base onshore. In terms of boats and aircraft it is the range out to sea that boats will operate against land and shore based weapons can engage boats and aircraft. The exact range is vague. The increasing range of shore based weapons, Long range cruise missiles and carrier strike deeper in land falls a little beyond… Read more »

andy reeves
5 years ago

NO ACRONYMS AGAIN PLS!!!!

Mark
Mark
5 years ago

@capt p wash. I think this is coming from a speech the Def Sec is giving at RUSI, he also has mentioned squadrons of drones being used to overwhelm air defences and the deployment of QE in2021 (as per another article on this site)

andy reeves
5 years ago

warships? my ars*

Lusty
5 years ago

Wait, new ships? Gav’ you’re meant to be cutting the RN down to only one ship because that’s clearly all we need according to HMG. Joking aside, this is an interesting development. The ‘Special Forces’ spin is always a good way of securing some extra funding, but I do wonder if these ships would come at a cost. Would one of these ships basically be a ‘replacement’ for Argus? That would be better than simply cutting her with no replacement and would increase the need for a dedicated hospital ship. But also, would these vessels be RN or RFA? New… Read more »

Jonathan
Jonathan
5 years ago
Reply to  Lusty

Lusy the proposed hospital ship can’t be a replacement for Agus, the rules around hospitals ships would prevent that (they include a legal obligation to allow search by opposing powers etc), the legalities mean a hospital ship does not fit allied joint doctrine for medical support (with UK national elements), although there is nothing to prevent a change in doctrine a Hospital ship (as legally defined) does not fit with UK requirements for an afloat role2E MTF or role3 MTF. Having your MTF on a warship allows you to manage wider security and stabilisation elements of a deployment, which although… Read more »

Lusty
5 years ago
Reply to  Jonathan

Well aware of the rules.

Still think a pair of hospital ships would do wonders for soft power and would free up Bays and converted ships like Argus from having to be on hurricane or humanitarian relief watch for large portions of the year.

Jonathan
Jonathan
5 years ago
Reply to  Lusty

Totally agree but only if they could somehow be manned outside the present pool of staff as stripping the pool of health professionals that are available to staff the role3 MTFs is an issue. Exemption from mobilisation could hit deployment of long term role3 MFTs if we overused a hospital ship. NHS employers don’t like doing it, but the state we are in at present means to we risk impacting on role4 if we we tried to staff a hospital ship as well as our army and navy role3 commitments (especially if they became long term commitments). Running an already… Read more »

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Jonathan

I THOUGHT WE’D DONE THE HOSPITAL SHIP DEBATE ALREADY

Jonathan
Jonathan
5 years ago
Reply to  andy reeves

It’s a discussion and discussion never ends, and stop shouting I’ve got a headache

Rob
Rob
5 years ago

Where are the crew and helos coming from then? Is the nest announcement a new Merlin order? Doubt it.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Rob

Dont know anout Merlins Rob.

But I read over on Gabs Twitter feed the DS also says that the RAF “Will be able to deploy swarms of drones ” by the end of the year.

Watch this space!

Jonathan
Jonathan
5 years ago

Expensive

Jonathan
Jonathan
5 years ago
Reply to  Jonathan

An expense of drones

Herodotus
5 years ago

According to Gatwick Airport authorities it’s an ’embarrassment of drones’

David Flandry
David Flandry
5 years ago

A pod of drones
A herd of drones
A pride of drones
A pack of drones
A slew of drones
A bunch of drones
A lot of drones
Many drones
Many many drones
Multiple drones
More than one drone
Numerous drones

………

Cam Hunter
Cam Hunter
5 years ago
Reply to  Rob

The commando helicopter force has a couple dozen helicopters that are getting upgraded and will all be done by 2021. But we have apache, chinooks, pumas and wildcats and the commando Merlins and carrier Merlins a couple hundred airframes atleast. And the likes of ocean could only take 18 max.

Lusty
5 years ago
Reply to  Cam Hunter

A ‘couple of hundred’ down from 500+ mearly 10 years ago.

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  Rob

IF THEY ARE AS I FEEL ALONG THE SAME LINES AS THE HARPERS FERRY CLASS OF THE U.SN,then the crewing issue shouldn’t be too high they carry crews of under 100

Cam Hunter
Cam Hunter
5 years ago

Once Hms ocean left we lost the mass commando helicopter lift. Apart from using our carriers obviously. But I didn’t see this coming, they will no doubt be RFA a replace argus and ocean. But why sell ocean then? Was it because she was worn out and only fit for a second tier navy? I’m surprised they opted for two ships though. A nice capability that we needed for the commando helicopter force. I can’t wait to hear more about the details, size, compliment ect ect.

AlexH
AlexH
5 years ago

Surely two Mistral class ships built under license would be ideal?

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  AlexH

Massive overkill Alex.

andy reeves
5 years ago
Reply to  AlexH

too expensive, a total non starter a contract like that wouldn’t be given to a foreign builder

Steven B
Steven B
5 years ago

Quite clearly stated that they are to to be tanker conversions

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago
Reply to  Steven B

Steven B , Does It, I’ve missed that ?

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago
Reply to  Steven B

Steven, Where Is That ? I can’t find It in the Headline Post ?

Cam Hunter
Cam Hunter
5 years ago
Reply to  Steven B

It doesn’t say that atall! Yes the American ones are ex tankers. And it will if it does what what they say kind of fill the role of Hms ocean.

Mr Bell
Mr Bell
5 years ago
Reply to  Cam Hunter

Looking at the artist’s impression from the RN above they look like a modified Tide design. Good 30000 Tons and a large internal volume should yield a ship able to support a couple of hundred troops and 6-10 helicopters each. That’s not a bad idea, good use of resources delivering a worthwhile capability (auxillary carrier) for not much money.

expat
expat
5 years ago

The Sun have an article on this also.

Great news, assume they will not be as large as the US vessels but great news all he same. Hopefully new build as if these are littoral you’d expect survivability not offered from a commercial conversion. Assuming they follow the principles set out in the Nation Ship Building Strategy and we’ll see a competitive UK based tender to meet a fixed price with a minimum spec like the T31.

Andy
5 years ago
Reply to  expat

Agree that there should be a competitive tender between UK yards as per the type 31. Wonder if they could be built at Appledore, maybe it’s too small a yard.

expat
expat
5 years ago
Reply to  Andy

Too big for Appledore unless its a block build and Appledore pick up some of the blocks. Cammell Liard or H & W would be my preferred yards. I’d also be OK with foreign design, I don’t think its a design area the UK needs to have expertise, better to focus design funds in other areas. Keep the cost down focused on delivering the build.

Callum
Callum
5 years ago
Reply to  expat

I’m not so sure, from the sounds of it these aren’t meant to be actual fighting platforms, more like support ships. Survivability isn’t likely to be a high priority.

My biggest concern though, is funding. I was under the assumption that T31 was being built as a class of 5+, with any additional funding found being used to build extra hulls. The LSS certainly seems like a nice to have, but imo returning mass to the fleet and protecting existing capability is more important than shiny new toys

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago
Reply to  Callum

“Literal Strike Ships” sound like they would probably have some Defensive Systems.

David Flandry
David Flandry
5 years ago

If they are to carry Special Forces they will have to have defensive armament and countermeasures, plus some casualty treatment facilities.

Mike
Mike
5 years ago

Where the F*** did that come from! Got to admit I am pretty shocked. Very interested to see how this develops. Let the speculation begin!

Lusty
5 years ago

It must be said though, that concept that has just been edited in looks a hell of a lot like a modified Point Class vessel.

Hmm.

CliveH
CliveH
5 years ago
Reply to  Lusty

I agree, ignore the floating base stuff, the first picture makes it look like a Point class conversion.
The US has something very similar already for its Special Forces:

http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/21261/americas-elusive-special-operations-mothership-is-packing-stealth-speedboats

…And we have two spare point class, lucky!
Probably RFA manned, extra amphib capability with existing spare assets

Julian
Julian
5 years ago
Reply to  Lusty

You might be on to something there. If they took back the 2 Points they let go so it didn’t affect existing numbers it would be reasonable, commonality of a lot of onboard systems, but it wouldn’t surprise me at all if this ends up not being 2 new vessels but actually being converting 2 of the currently in-service Points to this new role.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Julian

That’s a good spot Julian.

There were 6 points reduced to 4.

Maybe.

Paul.P
Paul.P
5 years ago
Reply to  Julian

You beat me to it. Agree. Definitely looks like recycled Point Class. But very welcome nonetheless. Williamson gets 10/10 for positive spin.

Mike
Mike
5 years ago

The image does look a bit like various concepts for cheap helicopter carriers. Not complaining though. I think it is a great idea.

JohnG
5 years ago

Thought this was an April fool. I’m disproportionately excited by this!

Gunbuster
Gunbuster
5 years ago

I was working on the Puller not long ago. God it is ugly!
However it does a job.
A huge flight deck and Aviation support facilities and under the deck is room for LC and Hovercraft/LCAC or other goodies that SF like to play with in and below the water.
Looking at the RN supplied picture that is a modified Point Class Ro/Ro. So instead of leasing them it looks like an outright buy and convert job. Cover the vehicle deck to make a flightdeck and still retain all the storage inside.

rec
rec
5 years ago

Could it be a modified Absalom and built by Babcock? Or converted waves, if they are surplus? Or Dutch Derutyer

T.S
5 years ago

Sorry, what??!! An increase in ship numbers, a new class of ship???!! Wow! What will TH say to that? The idea the Uk purchase anything other than unarmed coastal patrol cutters will infuriate him ???. My only question is where do helicopter airframes come from to load these out? Am I too wishful to think we might get some extra soon?

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  T.S

7 Squadrons Chinooks.

Or even the 14 new builds recently announced?

TAA
TAA
5 years ago

The Point class look good but are now aging, some well worn, and in need of replacement for strategic / heavy lift.

Marc
5 years ago

If they are going to be built build them in Appledore.

Cam Hunter
Cam Hunter
5 years ago
Reply to  Marc

appledore did build Hms Scott but could it fit anything bigger in the dock hall? I’m not sure.

Herodotus
5 years ago
Reply to  Cam Hunter

I’ve had to go and lie down….the MOD just doesn’t work this way. Okay so who are you…and what have you done with the real Secretary of State?

Herodotus
5 years ago
Reply to  Cam Hunter

Nah…they had to turn Scott at an angle to get it in!

Cam Hunter
Cam Hunter
5 years ago
Reply to  Herodotus

I thought it was a tight fit, appledore was fine for patrol ect boats though.

R.H
R.H
5 years ago

This is great news. However we still require an increase in escort numbers. Couple of 26’s would be nice.

Stephen
Stephen
5 years ago
Reply to  R.H

We should build the Type 45 replacement on the Type 26 hull and speed up the glacial build rate.

We should aim to increase the size of the Royal Navy to 8 anti air Type 26 (type 45 replacement), 8 anti submarine Type 26, 8 Type 31s, another Astute for a total of 8 attack submarines and a couple more River class O.P.V.s.

Stephen
Stephen
5 years ago
Reply to  Stephen

And B.A.E.S. should be encouraged to build the new frigate factory on the Clyde with the steady stream of work (16 Type 26, 8 x anti air and 8 x anti sub).

Graham
Graham
5 years ago

From other articles it sounded more like a conversion of a tanker than a new build.
Either way an innovative addition to our amphibious forces.
The RN just has to come up with escorts for them….

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Graham

If they are forward deployed on SF missions would they be escorted? Not necessarily.

In wartime yes.

To me this is welcome news. Too often MOD cut the enablers as well as the fighty end. These enable SF to operate off terrorist shores, example Somalia, enabling our Bays, QEC and others to do other jobs.

Phillip Curtis
5 years ago

Looks like they will be Point conversions and managed a manned by AW Shipping, so not really new ships, and won’t require RN or RFA crewing

JohnHartley
JohnHartley
5 years ago

They do look a lot like Korean Tankers. I suspect that is where they are coming from.
New Zealand has a Korean tanker with an ice hardened hull. I would want that on these, if the RN is to aid the Baltic NATO states in Winter.
I would prefer them built in a UK yard, but not holding my breath.

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago

Let’s not all get carried away here.

All I’ve found Is a Comment saying that the MOD are Looking Into possible options and that Funding has already been Allocated. Nothing else at all concrete.
Nowhere does it state New Builds or Conversions specifically, nor are there any Facts or Figures.

Time Will Tell.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago

The thing these days is small, well trained professional forces, being able to power project as required, with the logistics, bases, and intelligence capabilities to back them up. Rather than sheer numbers, which indeed remains important, and which have as we know reduced far to much.

UKSF at the tip of that, and always in demand from the US and used by HMG.

In my opinion this is a done deal and will happen. And they can be used for humanitarian too, another tick in the box.

Cam Hunter
Cam Hunter
5 years ago

But it’s a nice wait for a change.

john melling
john melling
5 years ago

Hello Everyone

Good News , Long over due as well

The US version USNS Lewis B. Puller has a displacment Approx. 78,000 long tons (87,000 short tons) fully loaded

Obviously we are not getting anything that big, same size as QE and POW!! haha

HMS OCEAN was 21,500 t

So are we looking at something similar in size to HMS OCEAN or a little bigger?
Anything smaller for helicopters, drones and UKSF plus crew and storage might be pointless
Defensive armaments…

Its going to be interesting to see what designs etc come out

Albion
Albion
5 years ago

I was actually being sarcastic when I suggested ‘Ocean’ as a name.
Anyway, I have just read in today’s paper that there is a 3 billion pound pensions shortfall at the MOD, which the Treasury will not cover. So it would seem that the 1 billion pounds granted to the MOD earlier will go on this. That still leaves 2 billion pounds to be found from elsewhere. So the question is, where’s the money coming from?

Richard
Richard
5 years ago

It’s an interesting idea but presents a few questions. Where does the money come from? A few have suggested foreign aid but at a political level there’s been no serious suggestion that would happen. Plus raiding foreign aid isn’t a zero sum game, yes undoubtedly some is wasted but some of it helps prevent conflict in areas that might otherwise destabilise, so you can’t just redirect it all or any one part of it necessarily with no consequence. In the long term redirecting the wrong funds could cost more than it saves. But, if not foreign aid then where? Where… Read more »

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Richard

As floating bases forward deployed and I guess not in use for much of the time, and resident at Diego Garcia, Gib, or wherever, what permanent crew would they need?

A big tanker has a crew of 30 odd does it not?

SD Victoria operates world wide with HSIC and SDV on it, that I don’t think has many crew.

Jonny
5 years ago

We are actually buying something? Surely not! I thought it was a joke but then i saw it wasn’t April the first. This buy was quite unexpected but hopefully good news as long as there are no hidden surprises e.g scrapping the rest of the surface fleet. (nothing would surprise me)

Paul.P
Paul.P
5 years ago

Conversions of the 2 Point Class Ro-Ro ferries we let go? Anyway, looks like a thought through replacement for Ocean which avoids sending QE class inshore. Forward based assault troops and Chinooks to be the norm?

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Paul.P

Looks useful Paul.

I’m optimistic at these. Seems like someone somewhere had a plan.

Didn’t the DS get quoted months back concerning converting ferries. It may have been these.

Herodotus
5 years ago

Thought that was for Brexit…oh no that was the transport wowser and the ferry company without any ships. Priceless!

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Herodotus

Lol I know what your referring to. That Tit Grayling and his Ferry contract.

No this was earlier, some time last year when the amphibious capability was rumoured to be on the chopping block. The DS was quoted as suggesting that converted ferries could be used as troop ships.

Paul.P
Paul.P
5 years ago

Failing Grayling….specialist in failure lol.

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago
Reply to  Herodotus

In all fairness, I think you will find that the Company was 60% owned by one of the Biggest Shipping Companies somewhere, can’t remember the details but It’s out there somewhere.

Paul.P
Paul.P
5 years ago

Maybe, I don’t recall. Makes more sense to create these purpose designed ships than try to modify QE class to replace Ocean. I think ‘the plan’ is still work in progress, but these ships look like thought through improvements on eithef sending exoensive QE class inshore or building a straight Ocean replacement. If they are based on a RoRo design they might be able to perform the mother ship role done by fhe Bay in the Gulf. So maybe think of them as replacing the Bay we should not have sold and Ocean? As ‘Littoral Strike’ ships they will be… Read more »

expat
expat
5 years ago
Reply to  Paul.P

May be correct, possible the ACA have quoted silly numbers to modify the carriers for this role so cheaper to convert a commercial vessel.

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago

When a Subject like this gets so many Replies, It’s really hard to work out Who Is Replying to Who and at which point in the Conversation. It’s not exactly a free flowing, easy to keep up with format, that’s for sure.

Is anyone else on any other Site that I can have a look at ???

(Not saying I don’t enjoy It here but, It Is a tad confusing at times).

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago

Gabriel’s Blog at UK Armed Forces Commentary is brilliant, and I find myself constantly agreeing with his thinking.

He posts a new article every few months however, as I guess he actually has a life! Accordingly the comment section is not on going like here.

expat
expat
5 years ago

Save the Royal Navy is also good for RN articles.

Steve Taylor
5 years ago

Gibraltar and San Carlos………

Steve Taylor
5 years ago

We need THREE fast modern dock ships similar to the USN San Antonio class.

I am still digesting the news.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Steve Taylor

Don’t take too long. Interested in your take on these.

Steve Taylor
5 years ago

I think they are alluding to something like U.S. Special Operations Command’s MV C Ocean Trader. This is a conversion of a sister class to the Points. Google them.

We need something like the San Antonio, a class of three. One of these will follow the carrier. We have close combat company, a small TAC HQ, and a clutch of Junglies in the carrier. And the balance in the dock ship with support elements and other stores in a bay stooging behind. Deploying the carrier beomes the main ‘overseas’ activity (in peace) for the RN and the RAF.

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago

Well, It looks like MP’s are trying to stop HS2, so I guess That’ll free up 20 Trillion ££££’s or thereabouts !

Steve Taylor
5 years ago
Steve R
Steve R
5 years ago

My guess for some of the things discussed here is as follows: 1) new build or conversion? My money would be on a conversion of another ship. Much cheaper and as it’s basically a floating base for SF, doesn’t need as much as traditional RN surface ships like frigates and destroyers. 2) crew? As this is an SF floating base my assumption would be an RN crew, due to the nature of the missions of would undertake. Secrecy would be paramount. I’d assume that few apart from the captain and some key staff would know what the SF are actually… Read more »

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Steve R

This is my view too Steve R.

As for RFA and OSA. Do Serco Denholm people have to sign the OSA? I guess so? As when there are SBS aboard training with their kit in far away places they will have some knowledge.

Steve Taylor
5 years ago

Google,

The Drive

U.S. Special Operations Command’s Elusive Mothership Is Packing Stealth Speedboat

Photos Surface Of Elusive U.S. Special Operations Mothership In Seychelles

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Steve Taylor

Yes seen that before. Agreed.

Daniele Mandelli
Daniele Mandelli
5 years ago
Reply to  Steve Taylor

A far more capable version of SD Victoria, which has just the one mission bay for boats and no aviation facilities.

Steve Taylor
5 years ago

Yes in a way. But we sold a Bay not so long back. And we have two LPD’s that we struggle to man.

Basil
5 years ago
Reply to  Steve Taylor

Steve, exactly the point I was about to make. We couldn’t run Largs Bay and presently struggle with manning the remainder of the RFA. I am delighted with the news, however not going to hold breath until I see what exactly we are going to get.

Steve Taylor
5 years ago
Reply to  Basil

I am not opposed to ‘civilian ships’ being re-purposed. It actually has been a passing interest of mine since 82.

And I think our main maritime threat in the next three to four decades won’t be China but us policing the North African coast to protect Europe. We will need lots of hulls for helicopter, UAVs, and small boat motherships; we don’t need full on warships for that job. Saying that I am concerned about non-state actors using AShM……..

Gunbuster
Gunbuster
5 years ago

I did a bit of work on that one as well.
It was Civvy manned .
You couldn’t get access to the SF areas which was understandable. Those areas where all cypher locked compartments and spaces.
Big floor area under the flight deck though for all sorts of goodies. The flight deck is big (not Puller sized) with a hanger . They had been operating Little Birds, Pave Hawks and drones from it .

Steve Taylor
5 years ago
Reply to  Gunbuster

The Points have impressive endurance. Something like 9000 miles at 21kts………

I don’t know. They seem a good answer to a different question. A question that is different to what we are asking…..

Geoffrey Roach
Geoffrey Roach
5 years ago

Just got in. Excellent news….and extra (?) drones. Sorry about this but Fish and Chips…landing from the sea !

HF
5 years ago

Let’s hope that means an increase in surface escorts – T26 & T45. A couple of extra SSN’s to provide asw support is too much to hope for, I suppose.

Stephen
Stephen
5 years ago

Sounds like good news. I too think these will be conversions rather than new builds.

David Johnson
David Johnson
5 years ago

And in the real world the select committee reports that the MoD has still not sorted the huge gap between its budget on the one hand and its future equipment plan on the other. Until that issue is resolved, this is just political puff…..

captain P Wash.
captain P Wash.
5 years ago
Reply to  David Johnson

You’re forgetting the £3 billion Pension fund hole in the Army mate. !

Steve Taylor
5 years ago

I just realised there’s that s-word again……..