News, Articles and Comment

Ed. The author explores the progressive integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) into RN fleet operations. The strategic and operational advantages of UAV and autonomous systems in modern naval warfare are undeniable and will only continue to grow. A 10 minute read.

Ed. The author examines the state of the art with regard to generative AI, contending that human-like complex reasoning functions are necessary to improve AI’s usefulness for the RN, potentially introducing an advisory function for AI in the near future, alongside automating many other tasks and functions. A 15 minute read.

Ed. The author surveys recent drone warfare developments in Ukraine, pointing to the tactically revolutionary, but strategically not yet decisive, technological horizon. Russia and Ukraine will continue to seek marginal advantages in the attrition battle as both sides re-arm and await the spring. Originally published in The Article. A 10 minute read.

Ed. The author gives his state of play on the current socioeconomic conditions impacting British seapower, and proposes a possible RN force structure financially tailored for a ‘regional’ rather than a ‘global’ Britain.

Ed. In this third article in the NR’s series featuring BRNC Pellew Division officer cadets, the author explores the appeal and consequences of human augmentation and robotics for the Royal Navy, raising important questions about the nature and future of war itself. A 10 minute read.

Ed. General Sir Robert Fry reflects on the historical evolution of trench warfare during the First World War to demonstrate that, although post-modern technology may have improved in an absolute sense, the fundamental nature of a military stalemate necessitates awaiting the emergence of the next paradigm. Originally published by The Article, 13 July 2023 (https://www.thearticle.com/the-new-hiatus-in-warfare). A 10 minute read.

Ed. A summary of the UK Coastal Security and Communities conference that was co-hosted by the RN Strategic Studies Centre and the University of Portsmouth in April 2023. The author expands upon the major themes that were discussed, making the connection between technology, the environment, and the United Kingdom’s coastal communities. A 10 minute read.

Ed. Reflections on the current state of the UK’s strategic positioning amidst the background of an increasingly dangerous and unpredictable world. The author posits that the reality of medium power status means fundamentally reassessing the often ideologically driven assumptions that have brought the UK and the Royal Navy to this moment in history. A 40 minute read.

Ed. Naval practitioners have previously commented on the mission-focused desirability of warship modularity [NR 111/1, p. 34]. In this article, the author argues in favour of adopting the modular NavyPods technology concept aboard the Royal Navy’s Hunt-class Mine Countermeasure Vessels. A 10 minute read.