UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns
Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
With the award and signing of the contract to begin the formal design and build work of the Hunter-class frigates destined for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), the programme can now move forward in earnest as it looks to meet a 2022 deadline for first steel cutting.
The contract was awarded to BAE Systems Australia’s new subsidiary ASC Shipbuilding, which was structurally separated from ASC Pty and acquired on 14 December.
BAE Systems Australia chief executive Gabby Costigan stated: ‘We are extremely proud to have been chosen to design and manufacture a formidable fleet of frigates that will give
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Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
In an exclusive interview with Shephard, Raytheon’s VP of Shipboard Missiles disclosed what improvements the company plans to offer for the Sea Sparrow NSV.
Delays in the construction of the Polar Security Cutter – the future substitute for the Polar Star – are likely to prolong the ageing icebreaker’s service time even more, putting the USCG in a risky position.
The adaptable design of Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 frigate, already selected by the UK Royal Navy and Poland, has led to more orders from Indonesia while other countries continue to weigh it up.
The presence of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group in the Persian Gulf means additional naval and aerial capabilities, which provides the US with multiple attacking options.
The US Navy’s acceleration of its laser weapon development initiatives reflects a decisive shift towards ultimately having a “laser on every ship” across tomorrow’s surface fleet.