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.
Thales will provide through-life-support for simulators at naval facilities across France for the French Navy under a contract announced on 4 November.
The contract includes support for 41 simulators at six facilities for the next six years.
The simulators cover a broad spectrum of operations and all deployment contexts, including shipboard system maintenance and surface vessel crew training, as well as firing simulators for the Mistral missile, 12.7 mm and 20 mm guns and other weapons.
The systems provide training for French Navy surface vessel crew, including multi-mission frigates, air defence frigates and the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier.
The contract covers systems currently in use with the navy and those on order.
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.