BAE Systems unveiled the third iteration of the Herne extra-large uncrewed underwater vehicle (XLUUV) at DSEI 2025. This will be available for the Royal Navy or export customers to purchase as an operational platform from the end of 2026. Iterating fast This latest version, ‘Herne Mk 3’, represents continued progress from the prototype shown in| Navy Lookout - Independent Royal Navy news and analysis
In this guest article, Pete Spayne argues that the UK’s fixation with the latest uncrewed systems, artificial intelligence tools and data projects risks becoming a costly distraction. He argues that without matching investment in training, infrastructure and sustainment, new technology may look impressive on trials day but fails to deliver lasting frontline capability. UK Defence| Navy Lookout - Independent Royal Navy news and analysis
The new First Sea Lord, General Gwyn Jenkins, used his opening address at DSEI 2025 to set out an uncompromising plan to move the Royal Navy to full war-fighting readiness within four years. He stressed that the era of incremental change is over and that taut delivery timelines must drive every programme from now on.| Navy Lookout - Independent Royal Navy news and analysis
The MoD has admitted that a ‘Category A’ nuclear safety incident occurred earlier this year at Faslane, home to the RN’s all-nuclear powered submarine flotilla. Category A incidents are defined as having an actual or high potential for the release of radioactive material into the environment. The incident took place between January and April 2025,| Navy Lookout - Independent Royal Navy news and analysis
