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Babcock and BAE Systems Bofors have signed a memorandum of understanding to offer “comprehensive” support to the Royal Navy’s intricate gunnery systems.
Babcock and BAE Systems Bofors have teamed up to provide operational and field support to the UK’s Royal Navy Type 31 Inspiration Class frigate guns.
After signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Swedish-based BAE Systems Bofors, Babcock Mission System CEO Neal Misell said the result will provide “vital” support to the gunnery defence of existing naval ships.
“The signing of this MOU brings together our unmatched team of experts to support these critical naval gunnery systems through life.”
“With decades of technological experience and an intricate understanding of both the weapons systems and the platforms they will be operating from, we are geared and ready to provide the most capable and cost-effective support we believe is available for these guns,” Misell said.
The MOU will see the opportunity for continued in-service support (ISS) and maintenance for the Bofors 40 Mk4 and 57 Mk3 gun systems. Combining the experience and technological expertise and capabilities of both companies, Babcock said the “production of the cutting-edge gun system” will be vital for maintaining the Royal Navy’s gunnery effectiveness and service.
Babcock’s Mission Systems gunnery team has previously provided “international technical and field support, logistics and inventory management, independent safety assessments, maintenance, overhaul and repair” to Royal Navy ships. Currently, they provide ISS to the existing Royal Navy Maritime Gunnery Systems, such as the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System and the GSA9 gunfire control system.
Babcock said they are eager to collaborate with BAE Systems Bofors as they hold the “deep technical knowledge and design authority” as the original manufacturers of the systems.
They said the coordination will “complement our capabilities as the prospective ISS provider and combined, this develops an enduring offering for global customers”.
Director of naval sales at BAE Systems Bofors, Patrik Selling, said the globally recognised gunnery manufacturers are eager to provide support in order to aid in the successful operation of the UK’s defence systems.
“We are looking forward to contributing to an in-service support solution for our 40 and 57mm naval guns that will fulfil the needs of the UK MOD and the Royal Navy, ensuring that the guns will be in effective service for many decades to come.”
