Navy: Defence Equipment
Commons · Question 120442 · Tabled 12 Mar 2026 · Ministry of Defence · Official record
Answered 18 Mar 2026
Question
Asked by Ben Obese-Jecty
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the Royal Navy’s Phalanx CIWS is authorised to use lethal force.
Answer
Answered by Al Carns, 18 Mar 2026
As with all Armed Forces equipment capable of delivering lethal effect, the use of Phalanx is governed by strict Rules of Engagement. Internal directives relating to the use of weapons systems are operationally sensitive and are not disclosed.