The
Royal Fleet Auxiliary (
RFA) is a civilian-manned fleet owned by the
United Kingdom's
Ministry of Defence, whose purpose is to support the Royal Navy. The RFA enables ships of the
Royal Navy to maintain operations around the world. Its primary role is to supply the Royal Navy with fuel, ammunition and supplies, normally by
replenishment at sea (RAS). It also transports
Army and
Royal Marine personnel, as well as supporting training exercises, and engaging in anti piracy and anti drug smuggling operations.