UK Armed Forces Weekly News Roundup (18–25 July 2025)
Welcome to this week’s British military news update, covering the latest developments across the British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, and veterans’ affairs. From cutting-edge battlefield technology to major naval operations in the Indo-Pacific, here’s everything you need to know.
British Army: New Tech Unveiled and Culture Under Scrutiny
The British Army has unveiled a pioneering digital targeting system called ASGARD that promises to transform battlefield operations. This AI-driven network links sensors and shooters, allowing troops to detect and strike enemy targets in minutes rather than hours.
Trials on NATO’s eastern flank demonstrated significant improvements in lethality and decision-making speed, with full deployment targeted by 2027. The technology, inspired by lessons from Ukraine, represents a major step towards a fully networked Army. However, an internal cultural report has also cast a spotlight on serious issues within the ranks.
A comprehensive study by Professor Anthony King revealed persistent misogyny and “lad culture” in some units, where female soldiers face harassment and marginalisation. Leadership has acknowledged the findings and pledged renewed efforts to address the concerns and ensure a zero-tolerance approach to abuse.
Royal Navy: Carrier Strike Operations, New Warship & Submarine Drone Trials
Carrier Strike in the Indo-Pacific
HMS Prince of Wales led the UK Carrier Strike Group during Exercise Talisman Sabre, the largest ever military exercise hosted by Australia. In the Timor Sea, Prince of Wales operated alongside the U.S. Navy’s USS George Washington, demonstrating dual-carrier operations with allied F-35B Lightning II jets and helicopters. This historic deployment marked the first visit of a British aircraft carrier to Australia in over 25 years, showcasing Britain’s maritime strength and global reach.
New Warship Commissioned
Closer to home, the Royal Navy commissioned HMS Stirling Castle, a specialist mine-hunting vessel. Transferred from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, the ship now serves as a mothership for autonomous surface and underwater vehicles, using robotics to detect and neutralise sea mines. This innovative approach enhances safety for sailors and reflects the Navy’s shift toward unmanned technology in mine countermeasures.
Submarine Drone Breakthrough
In a ground-breaking first, an Astute-class submarine successfully launched and recovered an uncrewed underwater vehicle through its torpedo tubes during trials in the Mediterranean. Part of Project Scylla under the AUKUS partnership, this milestone opens new possibilities for reconnaissance, seabed warfare and covert surveillance, further integrating AI and autonomy into Royal Navy operations.
Royal Air Force: Air Tattoo Showcase and New Aircraft Debut
The RAF took centre stage at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2025, Europe’s largest military air show. Highlights included the debut of the E-7 Wedgetail surveillance aircraft, flying in formation with the iconic Red Arrows. Spectators also enjoyed thrilling displays from Typhoon FGR4 and F-35B Lightning II jets, showcasing Britain’s cutting-edge airpower.
On the ground, visitors explored the RAF Experience zone, featuring air mobility aircraft like the C-130J Hercules and A400M Atlas. The event also marked the appointment of Air Marshal Harvey Smyth as the new Chief of the Air Staff, signalling continued modernisation for multi-domain operations.
Veterans’ Affairs: Boosting Support for Former Service Personnel
The Office for Veterans’ Affairs released survey findings this week highlighting how veterans view support services in areas like health, housing and employment. These insights are helping to shape policies, including the government’s VALOUR support programme – a £50 million initiative establishing nationwide hubs to simplify access to care for veterans and their families.
Additionally, over 200 UK employers were recognised with the Ministry of Defence’s prestigious Gold Award under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme. These organisations – ranging from small businesses to major corporations – were praised for their exceptional support of veterans, reservists and military families, setting an example for others to follow.
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