The Royal Navy is the naval warfare force of the United Kingdom, responsible for defending the country, the Crown Dependencies and the Overseas Territories. It is the oldest of Britain’s armed services and consequently known as the Senior Service.
The modern Royal Navy traces its origins to the English Navy of the early 16th century. From the early 18th century until the Second World War it was the world’s most powerful navy, playing a central role in establishing and defending the British Empire through a global network of bases and coaling stations. During the Cold War the fleet transformed into a primarily anti-submarine force, hunting Soviet submarines in the GIUK gap. Today it operates a fleet of technologically sophisticated vessels including two Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers, four Vanguard-class ballistic missile submarines carrying Trident nuclear weapons, six Astute-class attack submarines and numerous destroyers, frigates and patrol vessels. As of June 2026 there are 62 active commissioned ships in service. The Royal Navy forms part of His Majesty’s Naval Service alongside the Royal Marines and the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
