This Is Why Why is HMS Dragon taking so long to get to Cyprus?
Mar 6, 2026
Tom Sharpe, defence analyst and former Royal Navy officer with 27 years' service, gives a concise take on HMS Dragon and Royal Navy readiness. He discusses why the ship was held back, the Type 45's air‑defence systems and drone defenses, crew life and morale, and how capability shortfalls and politics shape deployments. Transit times to Akrotiri are also covered.
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Samson Radar Creates The Air Defence Bubble
- The Type 45's defining feature is its Samson radar which creates a long-range air defence bubble.
- The eight-ton radar sits high to extend radar horizon and lets the ship detect threats far before they reach the defended area.
Layered Weapons Make Dragon Versatile Against Drones
- The Type 45 uses Sea Viper missiles as its primary weapon supplemented by Phalanx, automated 30mm guns and helicopter-carried martlets.
- Sea Viper handles long-range, Phalanx and 30mm handle close threats and martlets/aircraft help counter drones cost-effectively.
Helicopters Extend Dragon's Defensive Reach
- Dragon carries a flight deck that can operate one Merlin or two Wildcats, enabling helicopter-launched martlets for drone defence.
- Tom Sharpe notes merlin is for ASW while Wildcats are smaller and ideal for agile drone interception.