A £46M contract to support and maintain a new sophisticated combat system across the Royal Navy’s world class submarine fleet has been awarded to BAE Systems.
The Design Services Arrangement (DSA) contract will ensure that the system, which is used to navigate vessels as well as gather intelligence and defend against attacks, is maintained and developed over the next decade.
The Royal Navy operates three classes of submarine totalling 10 vessels, which are used to safeguard the UK’s interests around the world.
Currently different combat systems are used across the fleet.
This new contract will help drive adoption of a Common Combat System across all current and future Royal Navy submarines, with considerable benefits to training, maintenance and updating costs.
The contract has been awarded to BAE Systems Maritime-Submarines and will safeguard around a total of 30 jobs at the company’s sites in Ash Vale, Surrey, and Weymouth in Dorset.
Minister for Defence, Equipment, Support and Technology Philip Dunne said:
“The UK’s submarine fleet is second to none and plays a key role in protecting our waters and interests both at home and abroad.
“This latest commitment to maintain and develop this vital technology throughout the fleet will ensure that we can continue delivering first class capability for many years to come.”
Rear Admiral Simon Lister , MoD Director of Submarines , said:
“Command Systems on board our submarines contain many vital technologies and it is very important that our submarines retain their technological edge, both now and in the future.
“This contract will help secure that position for the MOD and UK industry.”
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, December 7, 2012; Image: Royal Navy