The UK’s defence capabilities were boosted as BAE Systems was awarded a £270m contract to upgrade and maintain critical radars that protect the Royal Navy’s warships.
The Royal Navy’s fleet of warships will benefit from enhanced protection against airborne and seaborne threats as critical radars undergo an extensive upgrade and maintenance program.
The ten year deal, running until 2032, will focus on supporting the Artisan, Sampson, and Long-Range Radars found on various vessels, including the Type 23 and Type 26 frigates, Type 45 destroyers, and the Queen Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carriers.
This investment in radar technology safeguards the operational capabilities of the Royal Navy. The contract encompasses a range of activities, including upgrading existing radars, ongoing maintenance, and providing other essential in-service support.
According to “The Global Military Radar Market Forecast 2022-2032”, The Global Military Radar Market is anticipated to register a CAGR of 2.4%, growing from $10.2 billion in 2022 to $12.9bn by 2032. The cumulative market for global expenditure on Military Radar is valued at $134.3bn over the forecast period.
Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge, emphasized the importance of equipping the Armed Forces with cutting-edge technology to counter emerging threats, demonstrating the country’s readiness and preparation for adversaries.
Cartlidge said: “Equipping our Armed Forces with the latest technology to counter emerging threats is critical to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of our fleet and personnel.”
The upgraded radars will enhance the Royal Navy’s defensive capabilities, swiftly identifying and tracking potential airborne and seaborne threats.
The third leading supplier of naval vessels and surface combatants in Europe will be BAE Systems; it is set to hold a 4.0% share of the European market over 2023–33. The company will produce and deliver the Type 26 Global Combat Ship Programme to the UK’s Royal Navy over the next decade, according to GlobalData’s report on “The Global Vessels and Surface Combatants Market 2023-2033” report.
Scott Jamieson, Managing Director of BAE Systems Maritime Services business, hailed the contract as pivotal for UK radar technology development.
Jamieson said: “This is a pivotal moment for UK radar technology development. This contract secures a decade of investment into a critical capability for the UK armed forces.
It also allows us to evolve future radar technology with the MOD to sustain maritime air dominance and vital radar development skills and experience in the UK.”
With the awarding of the £270m contract to upgrade and maintain critical radars, the UK demonstrates its commitment to bolstering its defence capabilities and ensuring the continued effectiveness of its naval fleet.
