The Royal Naval Auxiliary Service (RNXS) was formed in 1963 from the amalgamation of the Royal Naval Minewatching Service (RNMWS) and the Admiralty Ferry Crews Association, in response to the nuclear threat to British ports. The service was disbanded on 31 March 1994 due to defence cuts. Most vessels from its fleet were transferred to the Royal Navy. Following the disbandment of the RNXS, the Maritime Volunteer Service was formed as a national maritime training organisation with charitable status. It has taken over and expanded many RNXS roles.