UK to join US Navy’s Virginia-class submarine assembly effort to speed up construction
The expansion of the Virginia-class submarine construction to UK shores could accelerate the project as US shipbuilders continue to fall short of delivery goals.
Ultra will continue to provide the EO tracking system for the UK Royal Navy’s Type 45 destroyers, after the MoD approved a three-year contract with a potential two-year extension.
The EO tracking system is part of Babcock’s Gun System Automation (GSA) 9.
Mike Williams, Managing Director of Ultra CSS, said: ‘Ultra is pleased to be engaged with Babcock in supporting this important frontline system and looks forward to delivering high levels of availability and service throughout the contract.’
The system provides high-resolution video performance with automation options that require minimal operator intervention, which simplifies operation in ISR, detection, acquisition and tracking of enemy targets.
The expansion of the Virginia-class submarine construction to UK shores could accelerate the project as US shipbuilders continue to fall short of delivery goals.
The US Navy intends to publish a draft request for proposals in Q2 2026 and conduct an open competition for the supply of new electro-optical and infrared capabilities for the CH-53K heavy-lift helicopter.
As new details emerge on the UK Royal Navy’s plan to secure the North Atlantic for the UK and NATO, three main areas of opportunity for new technology are the focal point.
Uncrewed surface vessels have shifted from a desirable capability to a critical one for navies. But should these systems be bought outright, rented as a service or rapidly built using commercial off-the-shelf components?
The Lunna House Agreement represents multiple opportunities for cooperation between the two navies, and follows on from last year’s declaration of a joint strategic partnership between the countries.
By joining the defence department, the coast guard will need to acquire new solutions and adapt its in-service capabilities to ensure interoperability with the Canadian Armed Forces.