Rolls-Royce has signed the largest contract in its history with the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD), an eight-year agreement valued at approximately £9 billion.
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Known as the “Unity” contract, the project encompasses research, design, manufacturing, and support for nuclear reactors that power the Royal Navy‘s submarines, marking a milestone for the country’s Nuclear Defence program.
The “Unity” contract consolidates previous agreements, streamlining collaboration between Rolls-Royce Submarines and the MoD. This approach aims to maximize operational efficiency, improve the Royal Navy’s performance, and secure long-term investments in infrastructure, skills, and jobs across the UK.
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According to Steve Carlier, President of Rolls-Royce Submarines, the agreement reflects the company’s “commitment to the Royal Navy and the UK’s Nuclear Defence program.” He also highlighted that the contract fosters innovation and proactive collaboration.
Impact on Jobs and Economy
- 1,000 new jobs will be created at Rolls-Royce Submarines, with most positions based in Derby, as well as new offices in Glasgow and Cardiff.
- 4,000 existing jobs will be secured, enhancing the stability of the UK’s defence sector and its supply chain.
Defence Secretary John Healey described the contract as a pillar of the UK’s defence industrial strategy:
“This investment in Britain’s defence will boost business, create jobs, and strengthen national security in the long term.”
The Scope of the Contract
The Unity contract covers:
- Ongoing support for the submarine fleet in service.
- Construction and commissioning of Dreadnought-class submarines.
- Initial development of the SSN-AUKUS program, which aims to equip the next generation of nuclear-powered submarines.
Additionally, the contract strengthens relationships within the supply chain, promoting strategic capabilities and economic benefits across the UK.
Strengthening the UK’s Nuclear Defence
Sir Chris Gardner, CEO of the Submarine Delivery Agency, emphasized that the contract represents a “significant milestone” in the longstanding partnership between Rolls-Royce and the Ministry of Defence. According to him, the agreement ensures:
- Greater operational efficiency and agility.
- A sustainable pipeline of domestic nuclear skills.
The Unity contract not only reinforces the UK’s defence capabilities but also solidifies Rolls-Royce’s position as a leader in nuclear innovation, ensuring long-term economic and strategic benefits for the nation.
Source: www.gov.uk. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.