UK Navy vessels

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded a £348m contract to BAE Systems to construct three new offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) for the Royal Navy, formalising an agreement signed last November.

The new vessels will be built at BAE Systems’ shipyards on the Clyde in Scotland, and will be designed to perform counter-terrorism, counter-piracy and anti-smuggling missions.

The construction forms part of a deal signed in 2009 between BAE and the UK MOD.

UK Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said: "UK warships are only built in UK shipyards.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

"This multi-million pound contract shows our commitment to investing in new ships for the Royal Navy and maintaining in the UK the expertise needed to build the warships of the future.

"UK warships are only built in UK shipyards."

"This sort of investment by the UK Government is vital for the sustainment of shipbuilding in the city and the hundreds of specialist manufacturing and engineering roles that play an important role in providing war fighting capability for the Royal Navy."

With the first delivery anticipated in 2017, the OPVs will be integrated with an upgraded flight deck to operate the latest Merlin helicopters. This will also include better storage and accommodation facilities.

BAE is also working on the second Queen Elizabeth-class (QE) aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, and recently floated out the Royal Navy’s new aircraft carrier, HMS Queen Elizabeth.


Image: River Class patrol vessels HMS Severn, HMS Tyne and HMS Mersey during exercises off the Cornwall coast. Photo: courtesy of Crown.

Defence Technology