Charlotte Kleberg
A mid diversifying security threats in a contested maritime environment, the United Kingdom (UK) faces critical vulnerabilities in its logistical supply chains and sealift capacity. Sealift can enable the deployment and sustained presence of a substantial force in an overseas theatre. 1 While Britain faces growing threats from aggressors within its own waters – such as hostile underwater activity – the nuclear deterrent allied to the country’s maritime geography means expeditionary operations are still likely. This makes sustainment and rapid resupply during extended operations a pressing concern. Recent events, including the contestation and denial of trade routes as seen in attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, underscore the need for resilient supply chains to ensure national security.
The UK’s ability to maintain a global presence and respond at the ‘speed of relevance’ in distant and increasingly contested environments depends on a sucient strategic lift and logistical support capacity. 2 Because military equipment, personnel, and supplies are primarily transported by sea, the ongoing Strategic Defence Review should make logistics, sealift, and sustainment of forces, one of its key issues. A robust logistical support capacity, swift transport of troops and equipment, and timely reinforcements are essential for conducting a wide range of operations both within Europe and beyond. The worsening security environment, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, underscores the growing requirement for sealift capabilities to reinforce operations at short notice
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