Six Hybrid CCVs to Lead Royal Navy’s Modern Air-Defense Push

The UK will build at least six Common Combat Vessels (CCVs) under the Defence Investment Plan to replace the Type 45 destroyers. These hybrid crewed/uncrewed ships will serve as air-defence hubs for unmanned sensors/weapon platforms, operating with Type 26/31 frigates and future unmanned platforms. The programme includes three Atlantic programmes (Atlantic Bastion/Shield/Strike) to counter regional threats, protect critical infrastructure, and boost UK shipyards and export potential.