To maintain its operational commitments, the Royal Navy must have a fleet of nineteen first-rate vessels, including six Type 45 destroyers (Daring class). However, the navy is significantly below this target due to the gradual decommissioning of its last Type 23 frigates and the limited availability of its fleet. This situation raises concerns about the navy’s capability to fulfill its strategic roles effectively.

The recent retirement of the HMS Iron Duke has further reduced the Royal Navy’s operational frigate count to just five. This decline highlights the pressing need for a comprehensive review of fleet management and modernization strategies to ensure that the Royal Navy can meet its future operational demands.