'Commitment secured': Royal Fleet Auxiliary strikes suspended but dispute is 'far from over' - what happened
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Disgruntled Royal Fleet Auxiliary sailors have called off their strikes due to new information coming to light.
The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) has confirmed to The News that planned industrial action for tomorrow and Friday has been postponed. Seafarers were due to walk out amid a bitter row over pay and conditions. - amid accusations of sailors not being awarded the minimum wage.
An RMT spokesperson said progress has been made, but any agreements have still not been finalised. “We have secured a commitment from the relevant minister’s office to meet with us by the end of the month to discuss the outstanding issues and the employer has shared their formula for calculating minimum wage payments which we will scrutinise,” they said.
“This progress is down to the determination of our members to win a decent pay offer that reflects the value they bring to such a challenging and increasingly dangerous role. The dispute is far from over and we cannot rule out naming further strike dates in the future."
Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) sailors play a vital role in supporting Royal Navy deployments, extending their reach through keeping them stocked with vital supplies. The civilians took the decision to walk out amid a host of problems within the force. This includes promised pay agreements that haven’t materialised, and reforms to working conditions and staffing which have not been actioned. A previous deal was secured in January 2025, but issues have persisted since. Strikes have previously taken place in Portsmouth.
This includes the issue of restrictive maternity policies, where female seafarers feel they need to take drastic actions - such as having abortions - to maintain their careers. Out of a turnout of 61.43 per cent within the RMT, 96.5 per cent voted to strike, with 95.3 per cent voting for action short of a strike.
Members of the Nautilus International union also voted to walk out. The ballot achieved 56 per cent turnout, with 88 per cent voting in favour of industrial action. A total of 95 per cent agreed to take action short of a strike.
Director of organising Martyn Gray said: “Nautilus International remains in dispute with the RFA & MoD over the 2025/2026 pay award. We continue to engage with representatives of the employer in seeking a resolution whilst working with members on evaluating next steps.”