Babcock International Group has agreed a six-month bridging contract with the UK Ministry of Defence to maintain naval base and nuclear submarine fleet support services. This arrangement follows the conclusion of the five-year future maritime support programme contract on March 31.
Maintaining service continuity at His Majesty’s Naval Bases Clyde and Devonport, Babcock said the agreement bridges the gap while a new long-term contract is negotiated. These operations involve supporting the transition from Vanguard class nuclear deterrent submarines to the Dreadnought class.
Following the strategic defence review and the defence industrial strategy, the future long-term agreement is expected to align with national priorities, the Ministry of Defence said.
Submarine Delivery Agency Chief Executive Officer Sir Chris Gardner said the arrangement offers continuity during a period of strategic importance for the submarine programme.
Both the Ministry of Defence and Babcock remain positioned to support growth and deliver against national defence requirements, Gardner added.
Babcock noted that negotiations for the succeeding long-term agreement are currently in the final stages, and the contract will include investment in skills and infrastructure.
Operations under the bridging contract will also focus on expanding scope and demand at the Devonport Royal Dockyard.