Royal Fleet Auxiliary
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 106 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 8 July 2025, what assessment he has made of the use of commercial vessels to augment the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Fleet Solid Support Ships in non-contested environments.
Answered by Luke Pollard
The Ministry of Defence continues to assess options for augmenting Fleet Solid Support capabilities in non-contested environments. Commercial vessels are being considered for low-risk logistical roles, offering potential benefits in cost and flexibility.
Work is underway to establish assured access to UK-based shipping through strategic frameworks, supported by industry engagement via the Shipping Defence Advisory Council. These efforts aim to ensure readiness through identified vessels, trained crews, and secure communications infrastructure.
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