Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) personnel, who provide logistical and operational support to the Royal Navy globally, are set to receive an above-inflation pay rise and improved conditions. This follows the acceptance of a new pay offer by RFA seafarers and maritime trade unions.
The agreed pay offer includes a 4.5% pay rise effective from 1 April 2025, followed by a 3.6% pay rise from 1 April 2026. Additionally, the agreement features improvements to leave arrangements, allowing personnel to earn more time off for periods spent at sea, a one-off leave buy-back arrangement, and a £250 one-off payment.
Minister for Veterans and People, Calvin Bailey MBE MP, welcomed the pay rise during a visit to Portland Port today, 28 July. He met crews aboard RFA TIDESPRING and RFA MOUNTS BAY, thanking personnel for their service and discussing workforce challenges.
Both the RMT and Nautilus unions have confirmed that RFA seafarers accepted the pay offer. The unions also stated they would continue to work with the RFA on further modernisation efforts, including exploring increased leave entitlements and developing pay arrangements that better reflect the unique nature of RFA service.
This agreement is part of the Government's broader programme to enhance recruitment, retention, and workforce conditions across Defence.