UK scraps plans to replace destroyers with focus on drone

Britain will scrap plans to replace its ageing destroyers and will instead procure at least six "Common Combat Vessels" to serve as control hubs for uncrewed systems, the Ministry of Defence confirmed on Sunday.



The Royal Navy's six Type 45 destroyers are due to be retired by the end of 2038, and original plans envisioned them being replaced by a next-generation Type 83 class.



However, under the long-awaited Defence Investment Plan, the warships will now be replaced by hybrid Common Combat Vessels (CCV), reflecting a broader shift towards drone warfare and frontline capabilities.



"Developed with exceptional British innovators, the new ships will be British-built, supporting jobs across the nation and giving the Royal Navy a capability built for modern warfare."



The ministry said the CCVs would coordinate uncrewed systems in the air, on the surface and under the sea. Delivery was expected from the early 2030s and when in service the vessels would work alongside crewed frigates as well as other planned autonomous vessels.