"The Type 23 frigate, once a mainstay of the fleet and a regular presence shadowing Russian warships in waters close to the UK, has not been to sea since October and has reportedly been stripped of key weapons and sensors."
"The development leaves the Royal Navy with just five operational frigates at a time when senior military figures are warning of increasing pressure on Britain's maritime defences."
"The Duke-class Type 23 frigates, including HMS Iron Duke, were originally designed for an 18-year service life but have remained in operation for more than three decades."
"However, ageing systems, rising maintenance costs and crew pressures have accelerated their gradual withdrawal from front-line service."
The Royal Navy has only five active frigates following the withdrawal of HMS Iron Duke, which has not been operational since October. Despite a £103 million life extension, it is unlikely to return to service. This reduction occurs as Russian naval activity in the North Atlantic increases, with incursions into UK waters rising by nearly a third in two years. The Duke-class Type 23 frigates, designed for 18 years of service, have been in operation for over three decades, but rising costs and maintenance issues are leading to their gradual withdrawal.
Read at London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com
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