The Royal Navy is the naval warfare branch of the United Kingdom's armed forces and is one of the world's oldest and most renowned naval forces. Founded in the early 16th century and formally established as the Royal Navy by King Charles II in 1660, it has played a pivotal role in shaping the maritime history of the UK and global naval affairs.
With its headquarters in Portsmouth, England, the Royal Navy operates a vast fleet of ships, submarines, and aircraft, as well as a network of naval bases and training facilities. Its primary objective is to protect the nation's interests at sea, maintain lines of communication, and enforce maritime laws and regulations. The Royal Navy is responsible for safeguarding the territorial integrity of the UK's coastal waters, patrolling international waters, and contributing to international peacekeeping efforts.
The Royal Navy has a distinguished reputation for excellence in operations, including both strategic and tactical naval warfare. It has participated in numerous significant conflicts throughout history, notably the Spanish Armada, the Napoleonic Wars, World War I and World War II. It has also been instrumental in counter-piracy and anti-smuggling operations, disaster relief efforts, and humanitarian missions worldwide.
Reflecting the UK's global reach, the Royal Navy maintains a significant presence all around the world, which includes deployments to regions such as the Middle East, the Mediterranean, the South Atlantic, the Caribbean, and the Asia-Pacific. It also actively collaborates with other navies and international organizations to enhance maritime security and promote stability at sea.