British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is preparing to announce a new naval shipbuilding plan that will replace the existing two amphibious assault ships with a new Multi-Role Support Ship to enhance the UK’s amphibious warfare capabilities.
According to the Financial Times, sources familiar with the matter revealed that the British Prime Minister is expected to advance the new Multi-Role Support Ship program next month to strengthen the UK’s amphibious warfare capabilities.
The last update to the UK’s national shipbuilding strategy was two years ago when preliminary plans were made to introduce the Multi-Role Support Ship (MRSS) in the early 2030s to replace the current amphibious fleet consisting of warships and auxiliary vessels, including the Royal Navy’s amphibious assault ships, HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark.
Insiders disclosed that the new shipbuilding plan may be implemented in two batches, with three ships in each batch. However, the British government has not yet announced any new funding commitments, and specific details remain undisclosed.
Currently, Sunak faces pressure from within the Conservative Party, with MPs urging him to increase defense spending.
Sunak has previously stated that, given the economic conditions allow, he intends to raise defense spending to 2.5% of national income.
Former Cabinet Minister Sir Simon Clarke said, “In a dangerous world, we need to articulate with greater conviction and clarity how we will increase defense spending to 2.5% of GDP in the next Parliament.”
Number 10 Downing Street has initiated a series of policy committees to discuss potential manifesto commitments with Conservative MPs, covering public services, communities, security, the economy, and the environment. In addition to policy on the European Convention on Human Rights and tax cuts, defense has become a focal point.
Some Members of Parliament believe that Sunak may announce a one-off increase in defense spending post and pre the “Commemoration of NATO’s 75th anniversary” summit in Washington in July this year, with the total amount potentially reaching up to £5 billion. However, MPs are calling for a higher allocation.
Former Defense Secretary Ben Wallace stated that the UK has no alternative but to increase core funding, advocating for a swift increase in defense spending to 2.5% of national income, and reaching 3% by 2030.
The UK’s Defense Procurement Minister James Cartlidge mentioned in February this year that work is underway to define the requirements for the new ships and ensure the UK’s economic sustainability.
The Ministry of Defense has indicated that it is considering an integrated procurement approach for the shipbuilding plan, as part of the recent procurement system reform efforts initiated by the Ministry.
The Ministry of Defense further stated, “Following the principles of the new model, we will continue to thoroughly evaluate all available options at an early stage.”
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