United Kingdom in Talks to Sell River-Class Patrol Ships

The United Kingdom is reportedly in discussions to sell several River-class offshore patrol vessels as part of a broader restructuring of the Royal Navy fleet.

According to recent reports, the United Kingdom has offered three River-class patrol vessels HMS Tyne, HMS Mersey, and HMS Severn to the Uruguayan Navy.

The ships are expected to be withdrawn from Royal Navy service around 2028 as newer vessels and updated fleet plans are introduced.

The River-class ships currently under discussion were first commissioned in the early 2000s

While capable, these ships are considered part of the Royal Navy’s older offshore patrol fleet, and the UK has been gradually modernising its surface fleet with newer patrol vessels and higher-capability warships.

Officials in Uruguay have reportedly shown strong interest in acquiring the vessels, which would significantly boost the country’s maritime patrol capabilities.

The potential transfer would also extend the operational life of the ships while strengthening defence cooperation between the United Kingdom and Uruguay.

If finalized, the deal would follow a recent trend of the United Kingdom transferring older naval vessels to partner nations. Earlier in 2026, the UK confirmed the sale of the former Royal Navy survey vessel HMS Enterprise to Bangladesh, highlighting London’s ongoing efforts to support partner navies while reshaping its own fleet.

The potential sale comes as the United Kingdom continues to rebalance its naval capabilities, focusing more heavily on

Aircraft carrier strike groups

Advanced destroyers and frigates

Forward deployed patrol vessels

Indo-Pacific and global presence missions.

The Royal Navy currently operates newer Batch 2 River-class vessels, including HMS Forth, HMS Medway, HMS Trent, HMS Tamar, and HMS Spey,

Negotiations between the United Kingdom and Uruguay remain ongoing, and no final agreement has yet been announced.

If approved, the ships would likely undergo refits and crew training before officially transferring to their new operator.