In a bold move that promises to reshape the Royal Navy’s capabilities, the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) is pushing ahead with plans to integrate uncrewed maritime and amphibious drones into the next generation of assault ships. The goal? To make the Royal Navy quicker, more flexible, and capable of tackling future threats head-on.
Drones on Deck: The Key to Future Naval Power
The MOD has confirmed that its development of unmanned systems is central to the design of the Multi-Role Support Ships (MRSS), which will replace older vessels like the Albion-class assault ships and the Bay-class landing ships. The aim is to create a fleet of ships that can launch and support cutting-edge, uncrewed drones alongside traditional crewed platforms.
Defence Minister Maria Eagle recently highlighted this in a response to a parliamentary question on February 24, 2025. She explained:
“Integrating uncrewed systems with our crewed platforms is a critical part of ensuring the Royal Navy can effectively respond to competition, crisis, and conflict in the future. Delivering uncrewed systems will feature heavily in the design specifications of the Multi-Role Support Ships, the next generation of amphibious ships to support the Commando forces.”
The Role of MRSS Ships in Modern Warfare
These new MRSS vessels will not just be a facelift for the existing fleet, they are designed to be versatile, technologically advanced hubs for future amphibious operations. In addition to supporting a range of unmanned systems, the MRSS ships will be equipped with:
- Well docks for launching landing craft, amphibious vehicles, and unmanned surface vessels (USVs)
- Flight decks and hangars for helicopters and uncrewed aerial systems (UAS)
- Command and control suites to coordinate amphibious and littoral operations
- Modular spaces for troop transport, combat operations, or even humanitarian assistance
The integration of drones, both airborne and surface-based, will enhance the MRSS’s ability to deploy the UK’s Commando forces with speed and precision, ensuring they can rapidly respond to threats and maintain operational superiority.
Learning from the Frontlines
The MOD is keen to incorporate lessons learned from ongoing conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine. The experiences from the frontlines are driving the development of unmanned systems, and the UK is closely collaborating with industry partners to test and refine these technologies.
Maria Eagle explained that the future of naval warfare is not just about traditional ship combat but about seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technologies like drones into every aspect of operations. These systems will not only support tactical operations but also enhance the UK’s overall strategic capabilities in the face of rising global threats.
What’s Next for the Royal Navy’s Assault Ships?
As the Royal Navy looks to the future, the integration of drones into assault ships marks just the beginning of a new era in amphibious warfare. The MRSS programme promises to deliver the versatility, speed, and cutting-edge tech needed to keep Britain’s naval forces at the forefront of modern military capabilities. With trials underway and further developments on the horizon, the full potential of these unmanned systems will soon become a key part of the UK’s military strategy.
