BAE Systems has added six equipment suppliers to support the UK Royal Navy’s Type-26 global combat ships (GCS) programme.
Babcock, DCNS, GE Energy Power Conversion, Imtech, Raytheon and Tyco Fire & Integrated Solutions have been awarded contracts covering key segments, including propulsion, ventilation and electrical equipment, as well as combat and navigation systems.
With 25 agreements scheduled to be placed by the end of 2014, the suppliers will be responsible for delivering a range of systems for the anti-submarine warfare platform.
BAE Systems Type-26 global combat ship programme director Geoff Searle said: "By the 2030s, the Type 26 will be the backbone of [the] UK’s surface fleet and a strong industrial base is essential to sustaining this naval capability.
"Our partners and suppliers play a key role in this, as we work together to further develop the detailed design of the ship’s systems and equipment to enable us to deliver 13 highly capable, affordable and supportable Type-26 ships for the Royal Navy."
Contractors already included under the programme are Rolls Royce, MTU, David Brown Gear Systems and Rohde & Schwarz.
With construction scheduled to commence in 2016, 13 ships will be delivered to the navy. The first vessel is expected to enter service as soon as possible after 2020.
Aimed at replacing the Royal Navy’s Type-23 Duke-class, the Type-26 vessels will be in service until 2060.
They are to be built in two variants, anti-submarine warfare and general purpose, and will be capable of carrying out anti-submarine warfare, air-defence and general purpose missions, as well as humanitarian assistance.
Image: The Type-26 vessels will replace the UK Royal Navy’s Type-23 Duke-class ships from 2020. Photo: courtesy of BAE Systems.
