In a major leap toward modernizing naval logistics, the Royal Navy is set to use drones for delivering critical supplies between warships during its upcoming deployment to the Indo-Pacific. This will be the first time the Royal Navy integrates uncrewed aerial systems into Carrier Strike Group operations.
The initiative will be led by HMS Prince of Wales and supported by a fleet that includes nine Malloy T-150 drones. These drones are capable of transporting payloads up to 68 kilograms at speeds of 60 mph and can remain airborne for around 40 minutes. They are expected to handle a variety of deliveries, ranging from essential engineering components to personal care packages for crew members.
The decision to incorporate drones stems from the Navy’s analysis of past deployments, which revealed that around 95% of all transferred items weighed under 50 kilograms. This makes them ideal for drone transport, reducing the need to deploy helicopters for relatively light loads. By freeing up manned aircraft, the Royal Navy hopes to increase the overall efficiency and readiness of its air wing for more complex missions.
Lieutenant Matt Parfitt of the 700X Naval Air Squadron, which is responsible for operating the drones, emphasized the strategic advantages of the move. He noted that using drones not only speeds up deliveries but also minimizes human risk and reduces operational costs.
This technological shift represents a broader push by the Royal Navy to adopt cutting-edge innovations that enhance maritime capability while optimizing manpower and resources. It also reflects a growing global trend in defense sectors to incorporate uncrewed systems across various domains, including logistics, reconnaissance, and surveillance.
If successful, the drone delivery trials could pave the way for routine use of such technology in future naval missions, setting a new standard for supply chain efficiency at sea. The Royal Navy’s move could also influence allied naval forces to consider similar upgrades in their operational strategies.
As the Carrier Strike Group embarks on its Indo-Pacific journey, all eyes will be on how this pioneering effort unfolds—and what it means for the future of naval warfare and support logistics.
