Preventing Conflict

The high seas are a global network open to all, and a common highway that can be exploited for good or ill. The UK’s reliance on global trade and the international system that facilitates it, means that international stability is important to sustain the UK’s economic growth and protect our way of life.

In order to protect its national interests and its citizens at home and abroad, the UK has to be able to exert influence around the world. The Royal Navy uses its access to the sea to do this. Long before disputes escalate into conflict, the presence of a Royal Navy warship can send powerful messages, reassuring allies and deterring potential enemies.

If a dispute does escalate, maritime forces can deliver military power at a time and place of our choosing. In this way, the Royal Navy can not only fight war when that is necessary, but can also be used strategically to prevent conflict, and to protect and promote the UK’s wider interests.

Preventing conflict through deterrence:

Naval Operations:  The provision of the UK’s Continuous, at sea nuclear deterrent.

The South Atlantic: Through their constant presence in the South Atlantic since 1982, the Royal Navy, Army and RAF have together deterred further threats to the security of the Falkland Islands.

Operation Armilla and its successors: For over 30 years the RN has been operating in the Gulf region, preventing the disruption of energy supplies and containing the effects of conflict in the region.

Operation Calash: Working alongside a multinational naval task force countering the de-stabilizing consequences of terrorism, piracy and smuggling.

Northern Europe: Working with NATO across the North Atlantic and Mediterranean to maintain security and stability across the region.

Far East: Providing a global presence to maintain support to UK interests and protect vital sea lines of communication in the region.