Reform UK proposes "Operation Fortress," a hardline plan to militarize the English Channel by deploying the Royal Navy to intercept all unauthorized migrant small boats and forcibly return the passengers to France or Belgium.

 

Reform UK proposes "Operation Fortress," a hardline plan to militarize the English Channel by deploying the Royal Navy to intercept all unauthorized migrant small boats and forcibly return the passengers to France or Belgium.

 

Joint Military and Surveillance Command

• Unified Command Structure: Establish a joint military operation drawing units from the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, British Army, and Royal Air Force.
• Integrated Surveillance Command: Unify intelligence and military asset tracking to build a comprehensive maritime monitoring grid across the Channel.
• Emergency Powers: Pass emergency legislation to grant participating armed forces explicit legal powers for at-sea interception and detention.

Interception and Return Tactics

• At-Sea Interception: Deploy navy-crewed inflatable boats and patrol vessels to match speeds, approach, and halt small crossing vessels.
• Onboard Processing: Detain intercepted individuals at sea to provide immediate food, water, and baseline medical assessments.
• Forced Repatriation: Escort and return individuals directly back to continental ports in France or Belgium under naval supervision.