UK to boost amphibious capability with Future Littoral Strike Ships
Not content with a raft of global military deployments, new bases and commitments to existing defence programmes, the UK Secretary of State for Defence, Gavin Williamson, has announced an intention to establish two ‘littoral strike groups’ with a focus on the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions.
Delivering a speech at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) on 11 February, Williamson said that concept work was underway for the Future Littoral Strike Ships (FLSS), although further details and the costs involved were not divulged.
However, it seems likely that such platforms would be based on existing commercial designs or ships, similar
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![As uncrewed naval systems advance, capabilities to counter them are emerging]()
As uncrewed naval systems advance, capabilities to counter them are emerging
Research programmes and system procurement efforts to counter uncrewed surface and underwater vehicle threats are accelerating as naval drone uptake spreads.
-
![US Coast Guard to receive the first three Offshore Patrol Cutters in FY2026 and FY2027]()
US Coast Guard to receive the first three Offshore Patrol Cutters in FY2026 and FY2027
After recording a nearly six-year delay in the OPC schedule, the USCG intends to advance with the programme, reaching multiple milestones in the short term.
-
![Japan’s first warship sale opens door to future exports but comes with strings attached]()
Japan’s first warship sale opens door to future exports but comes with strings attached
Australia’s selection of an upgraded Mogami-class frigate marks Japan’s first-ever export of a major surface combatant. With an ambitious 2029 delivery target, the deal could open the door to further naval exports – but inexperience and geopolitical friction with China loom large.
