UK to retire warship trio after century of combined service

July 15, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

The Royal Navy has decided to retire two Type 23 frigates, HMS Richmond and HMS Iron Duke, and minehunter HMS Chiddingfold, after the three warships delivered more than a century of combined operational service.

For over three decades, the three ships have been at the forefront of maritime security, supporting UK interests around the globe. From countering submarine threats and safeguarding vital shipping routes to humanitarian relief efforts and global maritime security missions, the ships have consistently helped protect the UK’s security, prosperity, and those of its international partners.

“HMS Richmond, HMS Iron Duke and HMS Chiddingfold have each played a key role in safeguarding the UK’s security and interests worldwide. As they are retired from service, their legacy continues through the next generation of warships and advanced autonomous systems. This marks a significant step in the Royal Navy’s evolution towards a Hybrid Navy, combining cutting-edge technology with proven capability to meet future maritime challenges,” said Vice Admiral Steve Moorhouse, Fleet Commander.

Most recently, HMS Richmond played an important role in the UK Carrier Strike Group’s deployment to the Indo-Pacific in 2025, providing protection and reassurance alongside HMS Prince of Wales on one of the Royal Navy’s most ambitious global deployments.

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Operations

HMS Iron Duke also continued to make a vital contribution. Recently, the frigate has been one of the Fleet’s most frequently tasked vessels, conducting repeated operations to monitor and track Russian warships approaching areas of national interest.

Meanwhile, minehunter HMS Chiddingfold has spent much of the past two decades supporting maritime security in the Middle East, operating from Bahrain alongside allies and partners to ensure freedom of navigation through some of the world’s busiest and most strategically important waterways.

HMS Richmond’s anti-submarine warfare role will be assumed by the next generation of Type 26 City-class frigates, led by HMS Glasgow, providing enhanced capabilities to operate in increasingly contested maritime environments. HMS Iron Duke’s responsibilities will transition to the Type 31 Inspiration-class frigates currently under construction, delivering greater flexibility and increased operational capacity for a wide range of global missions.

For mine warfare, HMS Chiddingfold’s legacy will continue through the Royal Navy’s pioneering autonomous and remotely operated systems. These technologies are already being deployed and tested operationally, enabling mine countermeasure missions to be conducted more effectively while significantly reducing risks to personnel.

The Royal Navy is transitioning toward a Hybrid Navy, supported by the Defence Investment Plan’s £1.3 billion investment in hybrid fleet capabilities and £1.1 billion for the Mine Hunting Capability program. This approach will combine autonomous systems with next-generation warships, aircraft, submarines, and uncrewed platforms to enhance reach, resilience, and operational advantage.