"Deepening crisis" hitting Royal Fleet Auxiliary despite "indispensable" role in helping US seize Marinera
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Vital sailors who played an important role in seizing a sanctioned oil tanker have been praised for their efforts - while being impacted by a “deepening crisis” in the force.
Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) personnel supported US forces in seizing the Russian-flagged oil tanker Marinera last week. Alongside RAF surveillance aircraft, the ship’s company of RFA Tideforce aided the mission after the ship reportedly broke America’s blockade of Venezuela.
Defence secretary John Healey promised to step up the military’s efforts of fighting against such ships, and seizing them lawfully. RFA personnel are often called upon to shadow illicit vessels and support the Royal Navy in conflict zones, despite being civilians. Several sailors affiliated with the RMT union and Nautilus International are currently being balloted for strike action over pay and conditions, as their role on the global stage.
Martyn Gray, Nautilus International’s director of organising, said last week’s operation was a “powerful reminder of the indispensable role” that RFA personnel play in front-line security. “RFA seafarers are not just support staff: they are the backbone of the UK’s ability to project power and uphold international law.”
As previously reported in The News, RFA sailors were balloted for industrial action regarding the 2025/2026 pay deal in November. They were asked if they wanted to go on strike, or take action short of a strike.
Nautilus previously said the MoD has failed to present an offer which meets the aspirations of personnel. The ballot is due to close on February 18, 2026. Disgruntled sailors formed picket lines and took to the streets in Portsmouth on several occasions in 2024.
Concerns included staffing levels, the level of pay compared to other roles in the private sector, and the state of its ships and other equipment. Mr Gray previously told The News that staff were “harassed” into returning to work early to plug personnel gaps. A historic pay deal was announced in January 2025, with the government pledging extensive reforms in the RFA.
Despite a commitment to restore faith in the force, problems still remain. Reports are circulating that the RFA has reneged on the settlement made for the 2024 pay offer, meaning the improvements to working conditions and salaries haven’t come as fast as sailors would have hoped.
A Royal Navy spokesperson previously said: “The Royal Fleet Auxiliary is a highly valued organisation made up of specialist personnel who play a critical role in supporting Defence operations around the world. They continue to operate globally in line with Defence requirements and priorities.
“Pay negotiations are ongoing, and we remain committed to working constructively with the Maritime Trade Unions to reach a resolution that reflects the vital contribution of RFA personnel. Until these negotiations are concluded, it would be inappropriate to comment further.”