In a significant move aimed at strengthening national security, Babcock International Group, a renowned international defense company, has entered into a substantial four-year £750 million contract with the UK Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA). This groundbreaking agreement is set to shape the future capabilities of the UK's submarines, ensuring sustained support for decades to come.
As part of an extensive infrastructure initiative at the Devonport site, Babcock will lead substantial upgrades to existing facilities. This critical enhancement is designed to bolster the Royal Navy's capabilities and fortify the infrastructure supporting the UK’s Defence Nuclear Enterprise.
The comprehensive contract encompasses the delivery of essential infrastructure for submarine maintenance, including a dock, logistics, and state-of-the-art support facilities. This commitment underscores Babcock's broader role in sustaining the entire UK submarine fleet, marking a pivotal contribution to the nation's defense capabilities.
Crucially integral to the UK submarine program, this contract is a key component of the site-wide infrastructure upgrade at Devonport. It will facilitate ongoing base maintenance periods and deep maintenance projects for current and future submarine classes, including the complex process of nuclear defueling.
Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, emphasized the significance of maintaining the infrastructure supporting the world-leading submarine fleet. He highlighted the government's commitment to growing the UK economy through this substantial investment, which is expected to generate over a thousand jobs in the south-west. These improvements are crucial for the dockyard's vitality and are essential for the Royal Navy to continue safeguarding the UK and its Allies.
David Lockwood, Babcock’s Chief Executive, underscored the critical role played by Babcock in sustaining the entirety of the UK’s submarine fleet. This substantial investment ensures the capability to deliver complex maintenance and life-extension programs, allowing the Royal Navy to safely navigate the seas and fulfill its crucial role in protecting the nation.
Sir Chris Gardner KBE, CEO of the Submarine Delivery Agency, expressed the importance of investing in vital submarine maintenance facilities at Devonport for national security. Delighted with placing the construction contract with Babcock, he highlighted the significance of delivering available and capable submarines for the Royal Navy, crucial for the nation's defense.
The construction program associated with this contract stands as one of the largest of its kind, showcasing the MOD’s commitment to investing in the Devonport site. This initiative not only brings vital skills and capabilities to the city and region but also reaffirms the ongoing dedication to protect the nation.
Over the coming year, the major infrastructure program is expected to create an additional 1,000 construction roles as it ramps up the construction phase. Babcock will be supported on 10 Dock by delivery partners Costain and Mott Macdonald, along with the main works contractor Kier BAM, bringing world-class infrastructure delivery experience to this critical program.
Babcock's £750 million contract with the Submarine Delivery Agency marks a pivotal moment in ensuring the future strength and capabilities of the UK's submarine fleet. The strategic investments and upgrades underscore the commitment to national security, job creation, and the long-term defense interests of the nation.
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Naval Force