Babcock has unveiled new advancements to drive ARMOR Force, an initiative set to transform the United Kingdom’s Royal Navy through hybrid and autonomous operations.
The plan includes integrating Type 31 frigates with large unmanned vessels, creating a distributed naval force for anti-submarine missions, air defense, and long-range strikes. The partnership with HII and Arondite enables combining autonomous platforms, modular systems, and digital command into a single naval ecosystem.
The project incorporates ROMULUS USVs, produced by HII with AI technology and the capability to operate for extended periods at sea. These vehicles will be complemented by Babcock’s PODS modules, allowing rapid mission reconfiguration and expanded operational autonomy. Arondite’s Cobalt system will orchestrate missions between manned and unmanned platforms, ensuring interoperability and control from sea or land bases.
Babcock states that ARMOR Force will meet emerging maritime security demands and keep the Royal Navy at the technological forefront for decades. With development focused at the digital shipyard in Rosyth, the program strengthens the UK’s move toward a Hybrid Navy, aligned with international operations and NATO standards. Full autonomous deployment is targeted by the end of 2026.
Source: Naval News | Photo: X @Babcockplc | This content was created with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team
We’ve unveiled ARMOR Force – a transformational architecture to support the UK @RoyalNavy’s next-gen autonomous ambitions. Partnering with @WeAreHII and @AronditeTech to deliver a Hybrid Navy through advanced autonomy and digital innovation. Learn more: https://t.co/h2icuuvyRp pic.twitter.com/u8dnylWHjl
— Babcock International (@Babcockplc) December 8, 2025
