LONDON, June 28, 2026 — The United Kingdom will invest more than £500 million to modernize its elite Commando Force under the government's revised Defence Investment Plan (DIP), strengthening frontline capabilities through new maritime platforms, autonomous systems, and advanced communications technologies.
The Defence Investment Plan, refocused by Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis, is scheduled to be published ahead of the NATO Summit in Ankara, Türkiye, on July 7–8. The programme aims to improve the operational readiness of the UK Armed Forces while supporting NATO's collective defence objectives.
Investment in Advanced Capabilities
Around £100 million of the funding has been allocated for advanced technologies that will support the transformation of the Royal Marines into the Future Commando Force.
The planned procurement includes:
- Uncrewed surface vessels and autonomous systems
- Next-generation military communications
- Networked targeting systems
- Lethal strike drones
These technologies are intended to improve situational awareness, command and control, and operational effectiveness during missions in contested environments. The investment is also expected to support the UK's defence industry through the development and production of advanced military technologies.
New Commando Insertion Craft and Amphibious Fleet
A major element of the modernization programme is the acquisition of new Commando Insertion Craft (CIC) under the Joint Commando Craft (JCC) programme with Norway.
The two countries are exploring the joint procurement of up to 30 high-speed vessels designed to transport commandos, equipment, and support systems during littoral and coastal operations. The craft will enhance the UK's ability to conduct maritime security missions, rapid troop insertions, boarding operations, and the interception of sanctioned vessels.
The Defence Investment Plan also includes funding for new Amphibious Transport Ships, supporting the UK's objective of developing a combined amphibious fleet with the Netherlands. The initiative is intended to improve interoperability and strengthen NATO's amphibious capabilities during joint operations.
Increased Focus on the High North
The revised investment plan places greater strategic emphasis on the High North, including the Arctic region, reflecting increased Russian military activity such as submarine deployments and the operation of shadow fleet vessels.
The new Commando Insertion Craft and autonomous systems will support surveillance, deterrence, reconnaissance, and boarding missions in Arctic conditions, where Royal Marines regularly conduct joint training with Norwegian forces.
Supporting Global Operations
The Commando Force will continue to serve as the UK's rapid-reaction amphibious force, capable of deploying worldwide on short notice for crisis response, maritime security, and expeditionary operations. Recent missions have included the interception of the sanctioned tanker Smyrtos in the English Channel.
The government said the investment will strengthen the Commando Force's ability to operate across maritime and coastal environments while improving overall readiness ahead of the NATO Summit. Additional details on programme funding, procurement schedules, and implementation are expected when the full Defence Investment Plan is published.
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