UK Navy Plans Major Vessel Decommissioning

UK Defence Secretary John Healey has announced the decommissioning of several naval vessels, including former flagships HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark, as part of a comprehensive defence reform strategy aimed at saving costs and reallocating funds towards modern technologies and personnel retention. The decision will see HMS Northumberland and multiple helicopters, including 14 Chinooks and 17 Pumas, retired due to age and rising maintenance expenses, projected to save £150 million over the next two years and up to £500 million over five years. Healey emphasized the need for updating the fleet to meet evolving threats, referencing the 'biggest reform programme in defence for 50 years.' All affected personnel will be redeployed or retrained, with no redundancies planned. The decommissioned naval assets will be replaced by newer vessels, including a Type 26 frigate and H-47(ER) Chinooks, expected to enter service by 2027. The strategic overhaul is part of a broader initiative to improve the UK's military readiness in light of modern challenges.