What We Do | Preventing Conflict

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The Royal Navy’s presence on the world stage sends a powerful message. We are ready to deploy at a moment’s notice to prevent conflict. By being there when it matters with a credible and potent naval force, we provide reassurance to other nations and stand as a deterrent to would-be aggressors. This influence safeguards the flow of international trade, helping Britain to thrive.

Preventing conflict

Strategic positioning

The majority of maritime trade passes through a handful of global chokepoints. By positioning our strength to protect these areas, we stabilise the seas and prevent conflict, facing down threats with a strategic show of force.

By safeguarding global trade, we're not just keeping the seas safe from criminals, we're protecting the freedom and way of life of everyone in the United Kingdom.

Preventing conflict

Stabilising hotspots

The Royal Navy keeps a watchful eye over fragile states, containing potential threats and preventing them from escalating. Our presence protects our regional partners and makes the world a safer place.

When regions become unstable, it has a knock-on effect on essential resources. By ensuring stability in areas like the Gulf and West Africa, we keep the peace and maintain the essential global flow of goods and supplies. By curbing disorderly behaviour and providing stability far from home, we safeguard your quality of life.

Preventing conflict

Global presence

Tensions threatening Britain’s interests can arise anywhere, at any time. From the frozen waters of the Antarctic to the Gulf of Aden to the seas surrounding Somalia, we’re poised and ready. By making the most of our freedom to deploy globally, we use proximity to unstable or aggressive nations to suppress destabilising behaviour.

The formidable Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier is just one example of the Royal Navy’s imposing presence on the international stage – and it’s enough to make any would-be aggressor think twice.

Preventing conflict

Reassuring regional powers

The Royal Navy's global presence means we forge close relationships with partners across the world. By working closely with our global allies, we provide stability, reassure regional powers and contain situations before they develop into serious conflicts.

Global trade depends on cooperation and goodwill - and as an island nation, we're reliant on the sea for essential resources. That's why reassuring regional powers and protecting maritime trade is paramount for our own country's security, prosperity and success.

Lieutenant Joshi
Operations Officer

HMS Shoreham's arrival in the Gulf will be another tool in ensuring conflict prevention in the area. As well as playing an active role in mine clearance, we act as a deterrent to unfriendly forces in the region.

Leading Seaman Branston
Air Picture Supervisor

It has been challenging without a doubt as there are many busy air lanes in this part of the world to keep on top of. I have watched Turkish and Israeli military aircraft conduct sorties and generally developed air pattern of life for future operations. However, the biggest achievement, for me is that I have been a part of the ship's company that directly contributed the removal of chemical weapons from Syria.

Commander Marriott
Commanding Officer HMS Diamond

It has been an operationally intense deployment (HMS Diamond, on Operation RECSYR) with a necessity to be at a heightened state of readiness at all times. To say I am proud of what my team has achieved is an understatement; I have been privileged to command such a professional ship's company.