US tests the newest QUICKSINK maritime weapon variant in the Norwegian Sea
The low-cost, anti-ship, precision-guided 500lb class capability was launched by a USAF B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.
Serco's marine services work includes operations at HMNB Clyde. (Photo: UK MoD/ Crown Copyright)
Following the end of a 15-year private finance initiative arrangement to provide marine services, Serco’s new deal is with the RN directly.
The 27-month contract commences in December, following directly on from the previous arrangement for marine services.
A 650-strong team provide a range of services for the RN, including trialling new maritime technology, ferrying passengers, supporting training exercises and providing maintenance of moorings and buoys.
Serco’s marine services cover six sites, including HMNB Devonport, Portsmouth and Clyde.
The company also operates and maintains 100 tugs and other vessels.
The low-cost, anti-ship, precision-guided 500lb class capability was launched by a USAF B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.
With ongoing market research to find potential shipyards for building LCUs, NAVSEA intends to issue a request for proposals for the programme next year.
While the Australian government insists the investment is predominantly aimed at strengthening the country’s defence capabilities, the upgrade also bodes well for the AUKUS pact which Australia’s defence minister said “is going well”.
The USCG exercised a $507 million contract option for the acquisition of 10 extra FRCs. This new order will raise the total number of Sentinel-class vessels procured by the service from 67 to 77.
At DSEI 2025, Red Cat outlines its expansion from UAVs into uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), positioning itself as a multi-domain defence provider spanning land, sea, and air.
The vessels are expected to deliver a major boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities, with production set to start immediately.