Written statement on The Commencement of the new Fleet Solid Support Competition - May 24

Secretary of State for Defence (Ben Wallace): Today I am pleased to be able to provide an update on our plans to take forward procurement of the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) Ships for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. The MOD's FSS programme is delivering three warships essential to the UK's Carrier-led Maritime Strike Group, while assuring value for money for the taxpayer.

Last year I said the new competition would be launched in Spring 2021, and today I’m pleased to announce that a Contract Notice has now been issued, inviting companies to register interest in participating in the tender for the design and build of FSS ships.

I am determined that all these ships will be integrated in the UK as well as keen to see British build playing a full or part role in the competition. The competition therefore seeks to maximise UK social value, balanced with the need to deliver value for money, while encouraging investment in domestic shipyards.

This is also an opportunity for British firms to work alongside international partners.

The competition consists of a two-phase process. Phase 1 is focused on the initial design maturity, with Phase 2 focused on the manufacture contract negotiation. Contract award is expected to be within two years, following approvals.