The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded BAE Systems a significant £4.2 billion contract for the construction of the next five City Class Type 26 frigates for the Royal Navy, to be built in Glasgow. This deal is vital not only for employment but also for the future of shipbuilding in the UK, sustaining over 4,000 jobs within BAE Systems and the broader maritime supply chain. It is projected that up to £1.8 billion from this contract will be invested in the supply chain, with £1.2 billion allocated to UK suppliers.
The Type 26 frigate is regarded as one of the most advanced warships globally, designed for anti-submarine warfare and high-intensity air defense while possessing the flexibility to quickly pivot to humanitarian missions and medical support. Currently, three Type 26 ships are under construction in Glasgow; the lead ship, HMS Glasgow, is expected to be launched later this year and delivered to the Royal Navy in the mid-2020s, alongside HMS Cardiff and HMS Belfast.
Defense Secretary Ben Wallace emphasized the importance of this investment in maintaining the Royal Navy’s capabilities to protect the nation at sea. He highlighted that the Type 26 design has already gained international recognition through its selection by Australia and Canada, underscoring its status as a world-class maritime solution that secures thousands of UK jobs while reinforcing alliances with partner nations.
Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive of BAE Systems, noted that this contract reinforces a vital UK industry and continues a long-standing tradition of shipbuilding along the Clyde. He further emphasized the ongoing investments in skills and technologies necessary to keep the UK at the forefront of the maritime sector, aligning with the government’s National Shipbuilding Strategy.
The Type 26 program is a UK-wide initiative, with more than 120 UK suppliers currently engaged in providing various components, including steering systems, gas turbines, and maritime lighting. BAE Systems is also focused on workforce development, having welcomed 180 new apprentices this year to join an existing 400 in the Type 26 program, while planning to recruit an additional 400 skilled tradespeople.
In support of the workforce, BAE has announced an investment of approximately £15 million towards a new Applied Shipbuilding Academy in Glasgow, aimed at fostering skill development at all levels. Additionally, the company is seeking planning approval for a new shipbuilding hall valued at over £100 million, which is expected to enhance productivity and support future orders, including the eight ships from the current program.
Collectively, this contract and associated initiatives not only bolster the UK’s shipbuilding capacity but also reflect the collaborative approach with Australia and Canada on the Type 26 design, together forming an anticipated 32-ship fleet across these nations. This multinational cooperation aims to leverage shared experiences to enhance operational effectiveness across all parties involved.
Source link
