How Dstl helped develop the Hybrid Navy concept
Dstl analysts worked with the military, wider defence and industry partners to inform and develop the future vision for the Royal Navy
The Royal Navy is exploring how people, platforms and technology can work together more effectively through its Hybrid Navy concept. Programmes focused on future naval operations including Atlantic Shield, Atlantic Bastion, Atlantic Strike and the Maritime Fighting Web support this work.
Atlantic Shield sets out how the Navy could combine crewed and uncrewed systems, digital networks and new ways of fighting to protect the UK and NATO’s critical maritime routes. Tomorrow’s force must adapt faster, be better connected and integrate new technologies more effectively.
The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) carried out a rapid programme of operational analysis and provided technical advice on behalf of the Royal Navy. Working to the First Sea Lord’s 100-day challenge in late 2025, analysts highlighted opportunities and challenges in just three months.
Evidence and insights were brought to life through workshops with military, wider defence and industry experts, tabletop exercises and targeted modelling. This allowed the team to examine sensing, decision-making, communications and operational effects across the wider force, rather than focusing on individual platforms. The work reflected how modern military capability depends on multiple interconnected systems working together.