Royal Navy turns RFA Lyme Bay into drone mothership for mine warfare

March 30, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

The Royal Navy is stepping up its mine hunting capabilities with new uncrewed equipment being added to the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Bay-class ship RFA Lyme Bay.

The high-tech equipment will be able to detect, identify and neutralise threats and is part of the Royal Navy’s transition to a ‘hybrid navy’.

The move comes after RFA Lyme Bay was brought to a heightened state of readiness several weeks ago.

After being fitted with the technology, Lyme Bay will be able to store, prepare, deploy, and recover a variety of autonomous and crewless technologies, from underwater drones to minehunting boats – acting as a crewed ‘mothership’ for drone tech.

“RFA Lyme Bay preparing for a possible minehunting mothership role is a perfect example of how we are building a Hybrid Navy – one where crewed ships and cutting-edge uncrewed systems work together seamlessly to keep our people safe and our seas secure,” First Sea Lord, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, said.

“Mine countermeasures have always been vital work, and by harnessing autonomous technology we are ensuring the Royal Navy remains at the forefront of underwater defence. I am proud of everyone involved in making this capability a reality.”

RFA Lyme Bay will be fitted in Gibraltar to serve as a mothership for advanced mine countermeasures systems.

The upgrade will turn the vessel into a mobile command centre with a plug-and-play control system, allowing rapid deployment of uncrewed technology where needed. While in Gibraltar, the ship will also undergo inspections to prepare for extended operations at sea.

The Royal Navy’s use of autonomous and uncrewed minehunting kit comes as it continues to forge ahead with its bold ambitions of a hybrid navy.