{{Short description|none}} {{Use dmy dates|date=October 2019}} {{Royal Navy}}{{Update|date=April 2025}} '''List of Royal Navy deployments''' is a list of operations and commitments undertaken by the United Kingdom's Royal Navy on a worldwide basis.<ref name="Global">{{cite web|title=The Royal Navy Deployed Forward Operating Globally|url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/About-the-Royal-Navy/~/media/Files/Navy-PDFs/About-the-Royal-Navy/Current%20RN%20Operations.pdf|publisher=Royal Navy|access-date=21 May 2014}}</ref> The following list details these commitments and deployments sorted by region and in alphabetical order. Routine deployments made by the Navy's nuclear-powered submarines and their location of operations is classified.
==Atlantic==
===Antarctic Patrol=== thumb|''Protector'' on Antarctic Patrol Antarctic Patrol is undertaken during the regional summer by the Royal Navy's Icebreaker and survey ship, {{HMS|Protector|A173|6}}, in the South Atlantic Ocean. Its primary mission is "''surveying and gathering data on the seas around Antarctica''" while also providing support to the British Antarctic Survey operation stationed in and around the British Antarctic Territory.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/south-atlantic/antarctic-patrol Antarctic Patrol], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 1 June 2014</ref> A Royal Research Ship is also deployed during the regional summer; RRS ''Sir David Attenborough''.
===Atlantic Patrol Tasking North=== [[File:HMS Ambuscade in Bermuda.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Former {{HMS|Ambuscade|F172|6}} at the South Yard (HMS ''Malabar'') of the Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda in 1988]] Formerly known as the '''West Indies Guard Ship,''' the remnant of the former America and West Indies Station.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://api.parliament.uk/historic-hansard/written-answers/2000/jul/13/west-indies-guard-ship#S6CV0353P0-10061 |work=Parliamentary Debates (Hansard) |date=13 July 2000 |title=West Indies Guard Ship |access-date=5 September 2008}}</ref> This is the Royal Navy's commitment to secure and protect the interests of the United Kingdom and British Overseas Territories in the regions of the North Atlantic and the Caribbean. The deployment primarily conducts counter narcotics missions and provides humanitarian assistance during hurricane season.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/north-atlantic/atlantic-patrol-tasking-north Atlantic Patrol Tasking North], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 1 June 2014</ref>
This tasking was augmented by Operation Ruman in 2017 as a result of damage caused by Hurricane Irma.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/north-atlantic/op-ruman|title=Operation Ruman|website=www.royalnavy.mod.uk|language=en|access-date=1 June 2018}}</ref>
The task is intermittently carried out by a single warship, or more recently by a River-class offshore patrol vessel or a Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel.<ref>Tony Skinner, 'RN cuts back Standing Task commitments,' Jane's Defence Weekly, 20 July 2005, p.12</ref>
===Atlantic Patrol Tasking South=== The Royal Navy has maintained a permanent presence in the South Atlantic and West Africa to provide "''ongoing protection and reassurance to British interests''" such as the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, while also supporting British Forces South Atlantic Islands. The commitment has, at times, consisted of two warships; either a guided-missile destroyer or frigate accompanied by a Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/south-atlantic/atlantic-patrol-tasking Atlantic Patrol Tasking South], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 1 June 2014</ref> Since 2015, a major warship has not been deployed.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.savetheroyalnavy.org/a-history-the-royal-navys-falkland-islands-patrol-vessels/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191215190852/https://www.savetheroyalnavy.org/a-history-the-royal-navys-falkland-islands-patrol-vessels/ |archive-date=15 December 2019 |title=A history – the Royal Navy's Falkland Islands patrol vessels {{!}} Save the Royal Navy}}</ref> As of 2026, the commitment is maintained by a River-class offshore patrol vessel. The 2021 defence white paper indicated that henceforth, one ''River''-class offshore patrol vessel, {{HMS|Trent|P224|6}}, would also be permanently based in Gibraltar for operations in the Mediterranean and also in the Gulf of Guinea.<ref name="navalnews.com">{{cite web |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2021/03/what-the-2021-integrated-review-means-to-the-royal-navy/ |title = What the 2021 Integrated Review means to the Royal Navy ? - Naval News|date = 23 March 2021}}</ref> However, as of 2026, the commitment is maintained more intermittently.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/defence/royal-navy-hms-trent-hurricane-help-portsmouth-return-5475100 |title=Heroic Royal Navy sailors who helped citizens rebuild after “storm of the century” return home to Portsmouth |last=Webb |first=Freddie |website=The News |date=15 January 2026 |access-date=19 January 2026}}</ref>
===Falkland Islands Patrol Task=== thumb|Former HMS ''Clyde'' patrols off West Falkland The Falkland Islands Patrol Task consists of a single warship (a River-class offshore patrol vessel) stationed around the EEZ of the Falkland Islands. It forms part of British Forces South Atlantic Islands and aims to reassure the inhabitants of the region and maintain British sovereignty.
{{HMS|Forth|P222}} was permanently assigned to the task from November 2019 until the end of 2025.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/south-atlantic/falkland-islands-patrol-vessel Falkland Islands Patrol Task], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 1 June 2014</ref> However, in late-2025, the tasking was assumed by her sister ship, HMS Medway.<ref>{{cite tweet |url=https://x.com/NavyLookout/status/2008456657336938819|title=@NavyLookout.@HMS_Medway arrived in the Falkland Islands just before Christmas to replace @HMS_Forth as the FIPV. |user=NavyLookout |number=2008456657336938819 |date=6 January 2026 |access-date=10 January 2026}}</ref> Royal Navy ships operating in the region use the deepwater naval base facilities of East Cove Military Port at Mare Harbour, East Falkland.
===Standing NATO Maritime Group 1=== The Standing NATO Maritime Group 1 is part of the wider NATO Response Force, its standard area of operations is the Atlantic Ocean.<ref name="NATO">[http://www.aco.nato.int/page13615814.aspx Standing NATO Maritime Group 1 and 2] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140602200013/http://www.aco.nato.int/page13615814.aspx |date=2 June 2014 }}, aco.nato.int, Retrieved 2 June 2014</ref> As of Feb 2023, the latest contribution to the task group was the Type 23 HMS ''Portland''.
==British and Northern European Waters==
===Littoral Response Group (North)=== Littoral Response Group (North), is the lead formation, based in Europe, with an area of responsibility in the Atlantic, Baltic and Mediterranean. As of 2024, it includes a {{sclass2|Bay|landing ship dock}} and a company of 45 Commando Royal Marines and supporting elements. While an {{sclass|Albion|landing platform dock}} is nominally assigned to LRG (North), both ''Albion''-class vessels were in reserve as of 2024 with HMS Bulwark only to be activated "if required".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/hms-bulwark-unlikely-to-return-to-sea-unless-needed/ |title=HMS Bulwark unlikely to return to sea 'unless needed' |website=Navy Lookout |last=Allison |first=George |date=19 March 2024}}</ref> Then in late 2024, the newly elected Labour government indicated that the ''Albion''-class ships would in fact be taken out of service, putting the entire Littoral Response Group concept into question.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-20 |title=Royal Navy finished as full-spectrum force as Albion and Bulwark axed |website= Naval News |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/royal-navy-finished-as-full-spectrum-force-as-albion-and-bulwark-axed/?cf-view |access-date=2024-11-21 |language=en-GB}}</ref>
LRG (North) had been supported by other Royal Navy and allied assets, including the Royal Navy's Carrier Strike Group, as required.<ref>{{cite web |title=The Carrier Strike Group: Our Nation's Spearhead |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/features/carrier-strike |website=Royal Navy |access-date=7 April 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Understanding the Royal Navy's littoral response group concept |url=https://www.navylookout.com/understanding-the-royal-navy-littoral-response-group-concept/ |website=NavyLookout |date=17 August 2021 |access-date=20 October 2021}}</ref>
===Baltops=== Baltops is an annual 2-week exercise run by the US Navy. It is an exercise in which several NATO members come together to take part in a huge multinational exercise designed to strengthen the bonds of international partnership. The 2021 exercises included Royal Navy ships HMS ''Albion'' and RFA ''Mounts Bay''.
===Cold Weather Training=== thumb|Royal Marines during the annual Cold Weather Training exercise in the Norwegian Arctic Cold Weather Training is a Royal Navy commitment to the annual Norwegian-led exercise in the Arctic regions. Its purpose is to build and strengthen military ties and to enable the Royal Marines and Royal Navy sailors to "fight and win" in extreme conditions.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/arctic-and-northern-european-waters/norway-cold-weather Cold Weather Training], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 2 February 2015</ref>
===Faslane Patrol Boat Squadron=== The Faslane Patrol Boat Squadron (FPBS) provides force protection in around the waters of HMNB Clyde, where the Royal Navy's nuclear-powered submarine fleet is based. The squadron currently consists of HMS ''Tracker'' and HMS ''Raider''.<ref>{{cite web|title=Faslane Patrol Boat Squadron|url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/uk-home-waters/faslane-patrol-boat-squadron|website=royalnavy.mod.uk|access-date=26 August 2017}}</ref>
===Fishery Protection=== The Fishery Protection Squadron is charged with protecting the British fishing industry, providing security to the oil and gas fields in the North Sea and other duties in the United Kingdom's Exclusive economic zone. It consists of three warships: HMS ''Tyne'', HMS ''Severn'' and HMS ''Mersey''.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/the-equipment/ships/patrol-and-minehunters/river-class | title=River Class | Royal Navy }}</ref>
===Fleet Ready Escort=== [[File:HMS Dragon with Russian Aircraft Carrier 'Admiral Kuzetsov' MOD 45157552.jpg|thumb|Fleet Ready Escort HMS ''Dragon'' escorting the Russian aircraft carrier, ''Admiral Kuznetsov'', through the English Channel]] The Fleet Ready Escort (FRE) is a single warship maintained at high readiness for deployment at short notice anywhere in the world. The FRE consists of either a guided-missile destroyer or a frigate.<ref name="Global"/> As of January 2014, this commitment has been 'gapped' by the Royal Navy twice; for 19 days in 2011 and 18 days in 2012.<ref>[https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201314/cmhansrd/cm140127/text/140127w0002.htm#140127w0002.htm_wqn32 House of Commons Hansard Written Answers] (publications.parliament.uk) 27 January 2014</ref>
===Fleet Operational Sea Training=== Training in UK Home Waters is essential for preparing both crews and ships before overseas deployment. Flag Officer Sea Training (FOST) is responsible for making sure that both Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships are fit for operational purpose after rigorous exercises and readiness inspections. This commitment is ongoing 365 days a year.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/uk-home-waters/training Training], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 2 June 2014</ref>
===Joint Warrior=== Exercise Joint Warrior is a Royal Navy (and wider British Armed Forces) commitment to engage in a biannual tri-service exercise (including multinational NATO forces) intended to achieve enhanced military effect. It is the largest military exercise in Europe.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/uk-home-waters/joint-warrior Joint Warrior], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 2 June 2014</ref>
===Towed Array Patrol Ship=== Towed Array Patrol Ship (TAPS) is a standing task for reactive anti-submarine patrol duties in support of the Continuous At Sea Deterrent (Trident).<ref>{{cite web | url= https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/89947/response/221885/attach/3/FOI%20Howell.pdf | title=Freedom of Information response to Mr A J Howell | author=Ministry of Defence | date=16 October 2011 | publisher=whatdotheyknow.com }}</ref> A Type 23 frigate is maintained at high readiness for this task 365 days a year.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm110328/text/110328w0005.htm#1103297000327 | title=House of Commons Written Answers c121W | date=28 March 2011 | publisher=UK Parliament}}</ref>
==East of Suez== This is a list of operations and commitments presently undertaken by the Royal Navy East of Suez in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea, the wider Indian Ocean and the Far East:
===Combined Task Force=== The Royal Navy regularly contributes to two multinational coalitions; Combined Task Force 150 and Combined Task Force 151. Combined Task Force 150 is focused on maritime security and counter-terrorism; while Combined Task Force 151 is charged with anti-piracy missions.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/indian-ocean/ctf-150 CTF 150], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 2 June 2014</ref>
===Humanitarian Missions=== The Royal Navy remains committed to providing humanitarian aid East of Suez.
===Operation Kipion=== Operation Kipion was an ongoing maritime presence in the Gulf and Indian Ocean by the Royal Navy to protect and secure the nation's many political and commercial interests. The enduring commitment usually consisted of an escort (a guided-missile destroyer or frigate), a supporting Royal Fleet Auxiliary ship and several other ships with various roles.<ref name="Kipion">[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/red-sea-and-persian-gulf/kipion Operation Kipion], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 2 June 2014</ref> Operation Kipion was formerly known as the Armilla patrol during the 1980s and 1990s.
In August 2022, {{HMS|Lancaster|F229|6}} departed Portsmouth en route to the Gulf to replace HMS Montrose as the forward deployed Type 23 frigate<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2022/august/15/20220815-hms-lancaster-sails-on-three-year-mission-to-maintain-security-in-gulf |title= HMS Lancaster sails on three-year mission to maintain security in Gulf|author=<!--Not stated--> |date=15 August 2022 |website=Royal Navy |publisher= |access-date=4 November 2022 |quote=}}</ref> and ''Montrose'' departed the Gulf to return to the U.K. in November 2022.<ref>{{cite tweet|title=@HMSMontrose sails from Bahrain for the last time after 4 years forward-deployed on operations in the Gulf. #Kipion |user=NavyLookout|number=1592476197732196352}}</ref> However, as of 2025/26, both HMS ''Lancaster'' and vessels from the navy's 9th Mine Counter-Measures Squadron were withdrawn from the region and it was unclear how or whether they will be replaced.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-mine-warfare-update-hms-bangor-extended-in-service-for-5-years/|title=Royal Navy mine warfare update – HMS Bangor extended in service for 5 years |date=21 November 2021 |website=Navy Lookout |access-date=21 November 2025 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://maritime-executive.com/article/royal-navy-s-bahrain-based-frigate-slinks-back-home-silently|title=Royal Navy's Bahrain-Based Frigate Slinks Away Silently |date=18 November 2021 |website=The Maritime Executive |access-date=21 November 2025 }}</ref>
===Operation Kipion Mine Countermeasures=== The Royal Navy maintained a permanent presence in the Gulf consisting of mine countermeasure vessels. These provided continued support to the region ensuring the "''safe flow of trade and oil''".<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/red-sea-and-persian-gulf/kipion-mcmv Operation Kipion Mine Countermeasures], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 27 April 2014</ref> Typically the mine countermeasure vessels were supported by a Royal Fleet Auxiliary ship acting as a 'mothership'.
As of 2025/26, these forces were withdrawn from the region.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navys-last-gulf-minehunter-hms-middleton-has-returned-to-uk/|title=Royal Navy’s last Gulf minehunter HMS Middleton has returned to UK |website=Navy Lookout |date=6 March 2026}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/royal-navy-mine-warfare-update-hms-bangor-extended-in-service-for-5-years/|title=Royal Navy mine warfare update – HMS Bangor extended in service for 5 years |date=21 November 2021 |website=Navy Lookout |access-date=21 November 2025 }}</ref>
===Littoral Response Group (South)=== Littoral Response Group (South), to deploy from late 2023, is to be based at the UK Joint Logistics Support Base in Duqm, Oman with responsibility for the Indo-Pacific.<ref name="Duqm">{{cite news |last1=Allison |first1=George |title=British Littoral Response Group ships to be based in Oman |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/british-littoral-response-group-ships-to-be-based-in-oman/ |access-date=23 September 2021 |work=UK Defence Journal |date=30 July 2021}}</ref> As of 2023, the principal vessels for LRG (South) were RFAs Argus and Lyme Bay.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63-ADo-SeOw |title= Royal Navy task force gears up for landmark deployment |publisher=Forces News |last=Williams |first=Briohny |date= 19 September 2023 |access-date=11 October 2023}}</ref> The LRG concept provides the UK options in an era of sub-threshold competition, a "grey zone" where nation states and actors compete in a hostile manner using tactics below the threshold of war.<ref name="HCDC">{{cite web |title=HCDC Inquiry - The Navy: Purpose and Procurement |url=https://committees.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/36642/html/ |website=Parliament |access-date=23 September 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Skingsley |first1=Juliet |title=Countering Threats Below the Threshold of War |url=https://www.chathamhouse.org/2020/12/countering-threats-below-threshold-war |website=Chatham House |date=2 December 2020 |access-date=23 September 2021}}</ref> The newly elected Labour government's decision to retire the ''Albion''-class assault ships meant that, in future, only vessels from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary would be available to equip both Littoral Response Groups North and South. This put the viability of the concept into question.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-20 |title=Royal Navy finished as full-spectrum force as Albion and Bulwark axed |website= Naval News |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/royal-navy-finished-as-full-spectrum-force-as-albion-and-bulwark-axed/?cf-view |access-date=2024-11-21 |language=en-GB}}</ref>
===Indian Ocean/Pacific Offshore Patrol Vessels=== In September 2021, two Offshore Patrol Vessels, HMS Tamar and HMS Spey, sailed from the U.K. for a planned five to ten-year deployment in the Indian Ocean/Pacific region. The vessels were to be assigned missions ranging from "security patrols to deal with drug-running, smuggling, terrorism and other illegal activities" to "joining in exercises with other navies and armed forces". Crews would be rotated to the ships on a regular basis and the ships were expected to operate from friendly ports as required, though the primary logistics hub is at the British Defence Singapore Support Unit in Singapore.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Graham |first1=Euan |title=Reflections on the Royal Navy's Indo-Pacific engagement |url=https://www.iiss.org/blogs/analysis/2021/10/reflections-on-the-royal-navys-indo-pacific-engagement |access-date=20 October 2021 |work=International Institute for Strategic Studies |date=19 October 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/september/07/210907-spey-and-tamar-deploy| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210907110449/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2021/september/07/210907-spey-and-tamar-deploy| archive-date = 2021-09-07| title = Patrol ships bid farewell to Portsmouth as they begin Indo-Pacific deployment}}</ref>
==Global==
===Continuous At Sea Deterrent=== thumb|upright|A Trident II D-5 ballistic missile launched from a Vanguard-class submarine The Continuous At Sea Deterrent (CASD; or, Trident) is provided by the Royal Navy's four Vanguard-class submarines which deploy on a continuous basis around the globe. The Vanguard-class are each armed with a maximum of 16 Trident II D-5 submarine-launched ballistic missiles and 48 nuclear warheads.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/global/continuous-at-sea-deterrent Continuous At Sea Deterrent], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 2 June 2014</ref>
===International Partnerships=== The Royal Navy remains committed to working with its International Partners around the globe. The principal purpose of these partnerships is to reassure allied nations, to share intelligence and expertise, to build trust and ultimately provide security across the worlds oceans.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/what-we-do/international-partnerships International Partnerships], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 2 June 2014</ref> Examples of such International Partnerships of which the Royal Navy plays a leading role include; the maritime component of the Anglo-French Combined Joint Expeditionary Force (CJEF), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, AUSCANNZUKUS, the European Maritime Force and the Five Power Defence Arrangements. The United Kingdom is a member of RIMPAC also, although it hasn't participated in way of deploying a surface ship in several years.
===Joint Expeditionary Force (Maritime)=== thumb|Former LPH HMS ''Ocean'' during the JEF(M) Amphibious Task Group in October 2016 Joint Expeditionary Force (Maritime) (JEF(M)) -formerly the Response Force Task Group (RFTG) created under the 2010 Strategic Defence and Security Review- is the Royal Navy's amphibious expeditionary task group maintained at high-readiness and available at short notice to respond to unexpected global events. In addition to amphibious operations, the JEF(M) can undertake a diverse range of activities such as evacuation operations, disaster relief or humanitarian aid.<ref>[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/royal-navy-ready-for-unforeseen-global-events Royal Navy ready for unforeseen global events], gov.uk, 9 May 2011</ref> The composition of the JEF(M) generally consists of several large amphibious warfare ships (both RN and RFA) and replenishment ships from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
To demonstrate the operational readiness and global reach of the JEF(M), the Royal Navy deploys the amphibious task group on annual large scale international exercises, primarily in the Mediterranean and Indian Ocean.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2013/august/09/130809-cougar-13 Royal Navy sails for annual ‘Cougar’ deployment], royalnavy.mod.uk, 9 August 2013</ref><ref>[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/royal-navy-set-for-cougar-13 Royal Navy set for Cougar 13], gov.uk, 8 August 2013</ref> As an international deployment, the JEF(M) gets the chance to engage in "intense" exercises with foreign and allied navies, such as (for example) the Royal Navy of Oman.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2013/october/25/131025-rn-sharpens-claws Royal Navy sharpens claws for Exercise Omani Cougar], royalnavy.mod.uk, 25 October 2013</ref>
The 2021 JEF (M) is centred on the Type 23's HMS ''Lancaster'' and HMS ''Westminster'' supported by {{ship|RFA|Tiderace|A137}} where they are operating in the Baltic. HMS Lancaster is the flagship for the group. The group comprises Estonian, Latvian and Lithuanian vessels supported by aircraft from Sweden. The group have recently been operating with SNMG1 within the baltic.
===NATO Mine Countermeasures=== This is the Royal Navy's commitment to support NATO MCM operations in the Baltic, Northern European Waters, the Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea (though it is capable of deploying globally if needed). There are two organisational structures; Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1 and Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 2.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/mediterranean-and-black-sea/nato-mcmv NATO Mine Countermeasures], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 2 June 2014</ref>
As of April 2022 the latest ship to be assigned was {{HMS|Grimsby|M108}} with Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1.
===UK Carrier Strike Group=== {{main|UK Carrier Strike Group}} Since 2015, the Royal Navy has maintained a carrier strike group based around the ''Queen Elizabeth''-class aircraft carriers with the aim to facilitate carrier-enabled power projection.<ref name="NN">{{cite book |title=Navy News |publisher=Royal Navy |page=14 |edition=October 2015 |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/-/media/royal-navy-responsive/images/navynews/archivepdfs/2010s/2015/navy-news-october-2015-issue-735.pdf}}</ref><ref name="SRNA">{{cite book |title=Royal Navy Senior Appointments, 1865- |publisher=Royal Navy |url=http://www.gulabin.com/armynavy/pdf/Senior%20Royal%20Navy%20Appointments%201865-.pdf |access-date=5 November 2020}}</ref> It took to sea for the first time in October 2020 and its inaugural operational deployment is scheduled for 2021.<ref name="assemble">{{cite news |title=UK Carrier Strike Group Assembles for the First Time |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/october/05/201005-hms-queen-elizabeth-carrier-strike |access-date=5 November 2020 |agency=Royal Navy |date=5 October 2020}}</ref> CGS21 will demonstrate a fully sovereign UK carrier strike group comprising:<ref name="CSG21">{{cite news |title=Counting down to the UK Carrier Strike Group 2021 deployment |url=https://www.savetheroyalnavy.org/counting-down-to-uk-carrier-strike-group-2021-deployment/ |access-date=5 November 2020 |work=Save The Royal Navy |date=7 July 2020}}</ref> {{HMS|Queen Elizabeth|R08}}, {{HMS|Diamond|D34}}, {{HMS|Defender|D36}}, {{HMS|Kent|F78}}, {{HMS|Richmond|F239}}, an attack submarine of the {{sclass|Astute|submarine|5}} class, {{RFAux|Fort Victoria|A387}} and a {{sclass2|Tide|tanker||ship}}. Also accompanying will be a U.S. Navy destroyer {{USS|The Sullivans|DDG-68|6}}.
==Mediterranean==
===Gibraltar Squadron=== [[File:Merlin Mk3s prove their mettle in day-long Gibraltar transit MOD 45160593.jpg|thumb|upright|Merlin HC3 of 846 NAS with former HMS ''Scimitar'' in British territorial waters off Gibraltar]] The Gibraltar Squadron consists of two fast patrol boats: HMS ''Cutlass'' (P295) and HMS ''Dagger'' (P296). The squadron provides force protection for NATO or coalition warships entering the naval facilities of Gibraltar and conduct maritime security in the surrounding British territorial waters.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/mediterranean-and-black-sea/gibraltar-squadron Gibraltar Squadron], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 2 June 2014</ref> The 2021 defence white paper indicated that henceforth, one River-class offshore patrol vessel, {{HMS|Trent|P224|6}}, would also be permanently based in Gibraltar for operations in the Mediterranean and in the Gulf of Guinea.<ref name="navalnews.com"/> However, as of 2026, the commitment to base an offshore patrol vessel out of Gibraltar is more intermittently maintained.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/defence/royal-navy-hms-trent-hurricane-help-portsmouth-return-5475100 |title=Heroic Royal Navy sailors who helped citizens rebuild after “storm of the century” return home to Portsmouth |last=Webb |first=Freddie |website=The News |date=15 January 2026 |access-date=19 January 2026}}</ref>
===Standing NATO Maritime Group 2=== The Royal Navy routinely provides a single warship to the Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 (part of the NATO Response Force). The standard area of operations for the Standing NRF Maritime Group 2 is the Mediterranean Sea.<ref name="NATO"/> In 2017, HMS ''Duncan'' deployed as flagship of the group, HM Ships ''Diamond'' and ''Ocean'' also took on the role prior to ''Duncan'' resuming her duties in early 2018 till July 2018.<ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2018/february/06/180206-hms-albion-deploys| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180209063108/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2018/february/06/180206-hms-albion-deploys| archive-date = 2018-02-09| title = Royal Navy's Assault Ship sails to lead NATO Task Group {{!}} Royal Navy}}</ref> The latest ship to be assigned was HMS ''Duncan'' in June 2023 as flagship.
===Special Purpose Task Group=== In April 2016, ''IHS Jane's'' reported that the Royal Navy had formed a new marine task group, named the Special Purpose Task Group (SPTG), in December 2015. The task group is reportedly 150-strong and centred around Zulu Company of 45 Commando Royal Marines. It conducts counter-trafficking, counter-terrorism operations as well as providing support to United Kingdom Special Forces. The SPTG's first operational deployment was in January 2016 to the Mediterranean on board {{ship|RFA|Mounts Bay|L3008}}. Additional personnel from 29 Regiment Royal Artillery, 17 Port and Maritime Regiment of the Royal Logistic Corps, 24 Engineer Regiment, and 30 (Information Exploitation) Commando Royal Marines were attached to provide specialist capabilities and expertise.<ref>{{cite news|title=UK forms new marine task group|url=http://www.janes.com/article/59519/uk-forms-new-marine-task-group|agency=IHS Jane's|date=14 April 2016}}</ref>
===Operation Sea Guardian=== {{main|Operation Sea Guardian}}
Ships transiting or operating in the Mediterranean will routinely be assigned in Associated Support to Operation Sea Guardian. With the forward basing of HMS ''Trent'' to Gibraltar, she has been assigned to OSG in direct support. In 2020 {{HMS|Albion|L14|6}} and RFA ''Lyme Bay'' have also operated in support of the operation.
===Humanitarian missions=== The Royal Navy remains committed to providing humanitarian assistance in the Mediterranean.
== Former ==
=== Humanitarian missions === When Typhoon Haiyan struck the Philippines in late 2013, the Royal Navy deployed HMS ''Daring'' and HMS ''Illustrious'' as part of the United Kingdom's humanitarian aid mission to the region (known as Operation Patwin).<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/pacific/patwin Operation Patwin], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 2014</ref>
During the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami the Royal Navy responded by deploying RFA ''Diligence'' and the frigate HMS ''Chatham'' with Westland Lynx helicopters to provide assistance.<ref>[https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2004/dec/31/tsunami2004.politics1 UK boosts help for tsunami victims], theguardian.com, 31 December 2004</ref>
In 2014, the Royal Navy deployed HMS ''Echo'' (a multi-role hydrographic survey ship) and HMS ''Tireless'' (a nuclear-powered fleet submarine) to search for the missing Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 in the Indian Ocean Region.<ref>[http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/indian-ocean/mh370-search Search For MH370], royalnavy.mod.uk, Retrieved 2 June 2014</ref>
In 2020, HMS ''Enterprise'' was ordered to sail from Crete to use her hydrographic survey expertise to help to re-open the port of Beirut following the massive explosion which devastated the port and surrounding area.<ref>{{Cite web |title=HMS Enterprise to deploy to Beirut in UK support to Lebanon |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/august/06/200806-hms-enterprise-beirut |access-date=2020-09-03 |website=www.royalnavy.mod.uk |language=en}}</ref> She also delivered humanitarian aid.
The Royal Navy provided assistance to Operation Sophia,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Operation Sophia | Royal Navy |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/operations/mediterranean-and-black-sea/operation-sophia |accessdate=30 March 2023}}</ref> the EU led mission to counter illegal people trafficking from Libya.
=== East of Suez === Previously, before the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union in 2020 ("Brexit,") the Royal Navy sent vessels to Operation Atalanta, a European Union multinational task force charged to combat Somali piracy off the Horn of Africa. For a period, the operation's headquarters was located in the United Kingdom at Northwood Headquarters, London.<ref>[http://eunavfor.eu/the-spanish-ambassador-to-united-kingdom-visits-eu-naval-force-operational-headquarters/ Spanish Ambassador Visits Operational Headquarters in the United Kingdom] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141121191623/http://eunavfor.eu/the-spanish-ambassador-to-united-kingdom-visits-eu-naval-force-operational-headquarters/ |date=21 November 2014 }}, eunavfor.eu, 28 May 2014</ref> In November 2017 Major General Charles Stickland Royal Marines was appointed as Operation Commander of Operation Atalanta.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Chain of command {{!}} Eunavfor |url=http://eunavfor.eu/chain-of-command/ |access-date=10 May 2018 |website=eunavfor.eu |language=en}}</ref>
==See also== {{Portal|United Kingdom}} *Naval Party (Royal Navy) *Blue-water navy *His Majesty's Naval Service *Merchant Navy (United Kingdom) *Overseas military bases of the United Kingdom
==References== {{Reflist|30em}}
==External links== * [http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/Operations/Current-Operations Royal Navy: Operations] (royalnavy.mod.uk)
{{DEFAULTSORT:Standing Royal Navy Deployments}} Category:Royal Navy Category:Non-combat military operations involving the United Kingdom