MoD Green Light for Carrier Order
The MoD has announced today that it is ready to proceed with the contract signature for the two new super aircraft carriers. HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales will be the biggest and most powerful surface warships ever constructed in the UK, and will remain in the fleet for an expected 50 years from entering service in 2014 and 2016 respectively.
Industry is now expected to proceed with forming a joint venture company, BVT Surface Fleet, which will help build the two carriers. The Joint Venture, to be formed by BAE Systems and VT Group, will be a key member of the Aircraft Carrier Alliance of companies which will construct and assemble the new carriers at shipyards including the South East's Portsmouth.
BVT Chief Executive Designate Alan Johnston, pictured left with David Hewitt of MDC, was at the Marine Design Centre last month to brief members on the company formation and key programmes, and once the joint venture has been formed we will be seeking to work with BVT to involve MDC members on their future programmes.
Of today's announcement, Defence Secretary Des Browne said: "The two aircraft carriers will provide our front line forces with the modern, world-class capabilities they will need over the coming decades. They will support peace-keeping and conflict prevention as well as our strategic operational priorities.
"This is an important day for the project and I am delighted that we are moving closer to signing the contracts for the manufacture of the carriers."
Minister for Defence Equipment and Support, Baroness Taylor, added:
"Today's confirmation that we are proceeding with the two aircraft carriers underlines our commitment to both the Royal Navy and to the UK shipbuilding industry. We are investing about £14 billion in the Navy and in the maritime industry over the next ten to fifteen years. The future carriers will provide an important military capability and will sustain many jobs - around 10,000 at the peak of production."
Marine South East is planning to hold a Marenet event in the autumn looking at the implications and opportunities arising from this new contract. If you would like to receive information on this and other future events email admin@marinesoutheast.co.uk.
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