News, Articles and Comment

Ed. Our correspondent continues his narrative of Operation HIGHMAST during the recent transit of the Red Sea, reflecting on developments in those tense waters. A 5 minute read.

Ed. The RNSSC author provides an appreciation of the strategic situation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), and endorses an organic ‘multiplex’ as against a hegemonic ‘multipolar’ order for the region. A 35 minute read.

Ed. Our correspondent continues his Operation HIGHMAST reporting, with the Carrier Strike Group beginning the return voyage through the Indian Ocean and conducting defence engagement and Joint Operations with the Indian Navy, before turning for Suez. A 5 minute read.

Ed. Taking stock of current challenges, with an eye to the strategic decisions made during the Cold War, the author argues that future RN thought leaders must be cultivated today. A 10 minute read.

Ed. Our CSG correspondent provides an update on the Task Group’s progress and describes defence engagement in Japan. A 5 minute read.

Ed. With the war in Ukraine escalating into a European ‘grey zone’ conflict, the author considers the First Sea Lord fit to the task of reestablishing Britain’s maritime role in terms of NATO strategy, recognition of a leadership situation different yet similar to that of the early 20th century. A 10 minute read.

Ed. This speech by the First Sea Lord, envisioning a paradigm shift with regard to uncrewed and autonomous systems in the RN Fleet, was delivered at the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) exhibition on 9 September 2025. A 10 minute read.

Ed. The author considers the rapid progress in drone development, and what challenges will need to be overcome towards maintaining defensive capabilities in an increasingly contested battlespace. A 20 minute read.

Ed. Our correspondent with the UK Carrier Strike Group relays the increasing tempo of joint and multinational operations as HIGHMAST continues. A 5 minute read.