Power at sea: Naval project milestones to watch in 2026

January 2, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for navies worldwide, with major deliveries, sea trials, and commissioning of modern ships and unmanned systems. From new frigates and patrol vessels to next-generation autonomous platforms, these projects are redefining maritime power and marking a new era in naval operations.

Type 31 frigates to debut in 2026

The UK’s first two Type 31 frigates, HMS Venturer and HMS Active, are nearing float-off. The anticipated float-offs of the first two ships are set to take place in the upcoming fiscal year 2026, marking a milestone in the Royal Navy’s modernization.

Babcock: UK’s first two Type 31 frigates nearing float-off, HMS Venturer and HMS Active to debut in 2026

Vessels

US Navy’s final Freedom-variant LCS to be commissioned in early 2026

The US Navy accepted delivery of the future USS Cleveland (LCS 31) from Fincantieri Marinette Marine (FMM) in Marinette, Wisconsin, in November 2025. Following commissioning in Cleveland, Ohio, in early 2026, LCS 31 will be homeported in Mayport, Florida. It will support forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence in different operational theaters.

US Navy takes delivery of final Freedom-variant LCS

Vessels

Two new patrol vessels to join the Montenegrin Navy

Kership initiated the construction of new patrol vessels for the Montenegrin Navy. These ships will boost Montenegro’s maritime security and coastal defense, with commissioning expected to impact regional patrol operations in 2026.

Kership kicks off construction of new patrol vessels for Montenegro

Vessels

Keel-laying ceremony for the Portuguese Navy’s new logistics support ship

The keel laying of the Portuguese Navy’s first auxiliary oiler replenisher and logistics ship is planned for January 2026. Earlier on, Türkiye’s STM commenced steel cutting for the vessel, launching the construction phase of the country’s first-ever naval export to a European Union and NATO member.

STM begins construction of Portuguese Navy’s new logistics support ship

Vessels

HII’s first ROMULUS USV on track for sea trials in 2026

US defense major HII has announced that construction of its first ROMULUS unmanned surface vessel (USV) has reached 30% completion, staying on schedule for sea trials in late 2026. The USVs are designed to meet the current and emerging requirements of the US Navy, US Marine Corps, joint forces, and allies.

They will support missions including intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, counter-unmanned air systems, mine countermeasures, strike, and the launch and recovery of unmanned underwater vehicles (UUV) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV).