What’s happening with SRVL?

The Ministry of Defence’s latest written answer provides a clearer sense of direction for Shipborne Rolling Vertical Landing, even if some uncertainty over timing remains.

In response to concerns raised after the MoD’s annual report referred to a ‘Rolling Vertical Landing’ upgrade cancellation, the Minister of State noted that “Shipborne Rolling Vertical Landing (SRVL) for the UK’s F35B Lightning aircraft to Queen Elizabeth Class carriers has not been cancelled; it has been reprofiled as a Defence Choice so that fitting the capability aligns with the introduction of a related complex weapons programme.”

A second line in the same answer added that this shift is “not expected to have an adverse impact on overall Carrier Strike or F35B capability.”

Taken together, the explanation more likely suggests a realignment due to budget concerns rather than a withdrawal. The carriers’ current configuration backs up that reading. HMS Prince of Wales retains several features installed for the early SRVL trials. HMS Queen Elizabeth, however, has not received the Bedford Array landing aid during her ongoing refit, even though that had once been expected for this maintenance period. That omission reflects a deliberate decision to pause near term integration while leaving the option in place for a later phase.

SRVL’s advantage becomes more relevant when planning for heavier and more complex long range stores. These were part of the original concept of operations, but their development and introduction have moved to the right. If SRVL is now intended to line up with the arrival of a future, heavier and expensive weapon, the sequencing is consistent with the operational logic. But only if.

What is SRVL?

Shipborne Rolling Vertical Landing, or SRVL, is a carrier landing method that lets jets touch down with greater weight by combining forward motion with vertical thrust. Instead of slowing to a hover, the aircraft keeps some speed on approach so its wings generate lift while the engine provides controlled thrust. This combination allows pilots to land safely without discarding fuel or weapons before reaching the deck.

The process occurs on an aircraft carrier at sea and blends elements of both vertical and conventional landings. The jet rolls onto the deck with forward momentum, uses wing lift to stay stable, and relies on vertical thrust to settle precisely. The technique is especially valuable for aircraft like the F-35B because it supports returning to the ship at higher all-up weights.