UK and allies assemble new naval 'strike force' amid rising Russia threat
Royal Navy of Great Britain (Photo:Getty Images)
UK is creating a new, powerful naval force alliance. It will include allies from Northern Europe to deter Kremlin aggression. The main goal is to be ready for immediate combat operations, reports Sky News.
According to a statement by the Commander of the Royal Navy, General Gwyn Jenkins, a special letter of intent has already been signed between the naval leadership of the Nordic countries. The project, named the Northern Navies Initiative, is to be developed in detail. The new grouping will not replace NATO, but will complement it.
"We know we have no time to lose, which is why by the end of this year, I want us all to have signed a formal declaration, laying the foundations for what will be a vital and enduring partnership for many years to come," the UK's Royal Navy stated.
Readiness for war and a "hybrid fleet"
London does not want to create a "paper" organization but plans full integration of crews and weaponry.
General Jenkins set out clear requirements for the future force:
- Creation of naval units that train and prepare together.
- Having real war plans for immediate combat operations.
- Formation of a "hybrid fleet" combining manned and unmanned vessels.
- The ability to freely exchange sailors, spare parts, and ammunition between participating countries.
Members of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) may join the initiative. These are the Baltic countries, Scandinavia, and the Netherlands. Canada is also showing interest in the naval alliance.
"I aim to create a maritime force that trains, exercises and prepares together. A force designed to fight immediately if required, with real capabilities, real war plans, and real integration," Jenkins emphasized.
Why Britain is raising the alarm: threat figures
The threat from Russia is growing every day, British military officials claim. Of particular concern is the Russian Northern Fleet, as the number of incidents in British waters is breaking records.
"We have seen Russian incursions into our waters jump by almost a third in the last two years," the general said.
In 2025 alone, the Royal Navy has been called out dozens of times for interceptions. Russian surface vessels are constantly testing the country's defenses.
The new allied forces are planned to be commanded from the main headquarters in Northwood, near London. This will enable rapid operational management in the North Atlantic and the Arctic.
What else is worth knowing about the British and US navies
Despite its status as a maritime nation, the UK has not intercepted a single vessel from Russia's shadow fleet. The reason is the fear that berthing and maintaining the vessels could cost tens of millions of pounds sterling.
Not only the Royal Navy, but any European fleet dares to block Russian oil exports through the Baltic Sea. Blocking shipping in international straits is effectively tantamount to an act of war, an expert says.
Meanwhile, a Golden Fleet is planned for Trump. The centerpiece will be the new Trump-class battleships, with over $65 billion allocated for their construction.
