Royal Navy chief General Sir Gwyn Jenkins has warned that Britain faces growing risks as Russia strengthens its naval capabilities while the UK struggles with a shortage of combat vessels.

According to the Daily Express, Jenkins raised the issue during a closed meeting attended by Prime Minister Andy Burnham. The newspaper noted that the Royal Navy remains at an extremely low numerical strength, while shortages of surface ships and submarines have repeatedly affected its ability to carry out assigned missions.

Jenkins pointed to Russia’s modern submarines, which he said are becoming increasingly difficult to track. He also highlighted long-range precision weapons and specialized systems designed for operations at significant depths. Similar concerns over Russia’s expanding undersea capabilities and the need to improve British naval readiness have also been raised publicly by Jenkins.

The Navy chief urged the authorities to work toward restoring Britain’s position as a full-scale maritime power and to improve the country’s preparedness for a possible major conflict.

He also called for the construction of more warships alongside a broader use of unmanned naval systems. Jenkins said Britain is now facing threats on a scale not seen since the Cold War. Recent reporting on his remarks likewise describes calls for more conventional warships and drones to strengthen the Royal Navy.