Source · Select Committees · Defence Committee
Recommendation 23
23
Paragraph: 152
Towards the end of this decade the Navy intends to bring in several completely new...
Conclusion
Towards the end of this decade the Navy intends to bring in several completely new classes of vessels simultaneously. These plans must be delivered on schedule if the “We’re going to need a bigger Navy” 77 Navy is to avoid capability gaps and end the period of risk it has created through its own planning and procurement decisions. We welcome indications that these programmes are currently on target. However, past performance is not encouraging, and numerous risks have been identified. The security of the fleet and the UK rely on these projects being delivered on time. Given the challenges associated with the age of the vessels, like the provision of spare parts, we are far from confident that any delays can be effectively managed by extending the life of ageing vessels without additional risk.
Paragraph Reference:
152
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
Response: The MOD has a clear plan and approach to future ship procurement. The Type 26 and Type 31 Class of ships will be brought into service to replace the Type 23 Frigates in the latter half of the 2020s, and into the 2030s. As with all complex programmes, there is risk associated with delivery dates which is being closely managed by the Senior Responsible Owners. The project teams have experienced people who have successfully brought into service the River Class Batch 2 OPVs and Queen Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carriers. The Type 23 Frigates continue to be highly effective and successfully deployed to provide maritime security for key trade routes and to protect the Continuous at Sea Nuclear Deterrent and CSG. The risks associated with the delivery of Type 23 availability and Frigate transition plan are well understood and are also being managed by experienced DE&S and RN teams. On current plans, the transition into service of Type 31 and Type 26 to replace Type 23s will not introduce any capability gaps.