UK Aircraft Carriers to Forego 30mm Anti-Drone Guns This Year

The Royal Navy’s Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers are facing renewed scrutiny over their defensive capabilities. Despite the evolving threat of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and loitering munitions, the UK government has confirmed that it will not be installing specific anti-drone weaponry on these flagship vessels this year.

The “Toy” Controversy and Defensive Gaps

The debate over the readiness of the UK’s naval power intensified following comments from President Donald Trump, who recently described the two Queen Elizabeth-class carriers as “toys” incapable of real combat. Even as the remark drew widespread headlines, it underscored a persistent technical concern regarding the ships’ armament.

The 30mm Automated Small Calibre Gun (ASCG) mounts were originally specified for the Queen Elizabeth-class (QEC) carriers. However, as reported by Navy Lookout in 2021, these mounts were not fitted during the initial construction of the ships. Although expectations existed that these guns would be added during Capability Insertion Periods, that installation never occurred.

Official Stance from the Ministry of Defence

British Secretary of State for Defense Lord Coaker has officially denied plans to install Mark 2 30mm cannons on the two aircraft carriers this year. While acknowledging the absence of these specific guns, Lord Coaker stressed that the Royal Navy has other countermeasures in place to protect the vessels.

This decision comes at a critical time, as the flagship HMS Queen Elizabeth prepares for its operational deployment to the Indo-Pacific, a region where aerial threats are a primary concern.

The Evolving Threat of Drone Warfare

The push for 30mm autocannons stems from the increasing danger posed by cruise missiles and suicide drones. Modern naval warfare now requires specialized ordnance to counter small UAS. For example, the US Army has been testing “aviation proximity explosive” (APEX) rounds designed to detonate near a target to maximize effectiveness against small drones.

The Royal Navy is already familiar with this technology, as the DS30M Mark 2 30mm guns are widely utilized across other parts of the fleet and are capable of firing such specialized rounds.

Key Takeaways: UK Carrier Defense Status

• Current Status: No Mark 2 30mm cannons will be installed on the aircraft carriers this year.
• Historical Oversight: ASCG mounts were specified in the original design but not fitted during construction.
• Government Position: Lord Coaker maintains that alternative countermeasures are currently operational.
• Primary Threats: Loitering munitions, suicide drones and cruise missiles.

Looking Ahead

As the Royal Navy projects power into the Indo-Pacific, the balance between existing countermeasures and the need for dedicated short-range kinetic defenses remains a point of contention. The absence of the 30mm guns leaves a visible gap in the ships’ specified design, raising questions about whether existing systems are sufficient to counter the rapid proliferation of drone technology in modern conflict zones.