The United Kingdom’s Merchant Navy is the country’s commercial shipping fleet and its civilian seafarers — historically vital for trade and for transporting troops, supplies and materiel during wartime.
Quick summary
The term “Merchant Navy” refers to UK-registered commercial vessels and their crews (cargo ships, tankers, passenger liners, etc.).
Merchant seafarers have been crucial in both world wars (convoys, heavy losses to U-boats) and in sustaining the UK’s economy and supply chains.
The sector has changed substantially since mid-20th century: flag changes, containerisation, consolidation of shipping companies, and changes in crew nationality and training.
Background / context
Origins and name: “Merchant Navy” became a widely used term in the 20th century to recognise the civilian fleet’s wartime service and sacrifices (not a military service but recognised by the state).
Wartime role: Merchant ships operated in convoys protected by the Royal Navy; merchant losses were very high in both world wars, especially WWII (the Battle of the Atlantic).
Modern regulation and support: UK maritime safety, certification and seafarer welfare are overseen by authorities such as the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and other maritime organisations.
