Bay-class auxiliary dock landing ship RFA Lyme Bay is being equipped with mine countermeasures (MCM) kit to act as a Royal Navy minehunting mothership.
The British Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) vessel, recently laid up in Gibraltar, is being reactivated and equipped with new MCM systems.
While the nature of these systems remains unspecified at this stage, in July last year the Royal Navy took delivery of three new SWEEP autonomous minesweeping systems.
It also received its first MMCM autonomous unmanned mine countermeasures platform from Thales in March 2025.
As per an RN press statement, RFA Lyme Bay was brought to heightened readiness “several weeks ago.” It was last operational in October 2025, when it took part in the Arctic Tide NATO exercise off Norway.
There has been widespread speculation the vessel is being prepared for potential MCM duties in the Middle East. Fears of a global economic recession have been heightened while the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to shipping as a result of the U.S./Israeli attacks on Iran.
First Sea Lord, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, said: “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.
“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.”
And Commanding Officer of Lyme Bay Captain Mark Colley added: “The RFA is a crucial support arm of the Royal Navy and being able to act as an MCM mothership once again shows how we can adapt to the operational demand where needed.”
He added: “Having recently returned to high readiness, we have been put through our paces but I know we are ready to support this autonomous uncrewed kit so as to play an important role in its use.”
- You can read more details on the Royal Navy website