Rolls-Royce has signed the biggest UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) contract in its history. The Unity contract stretches over eight years and brings together all elements of research and technology, design, manufacture and in-service support of the nuclear reactors that power the Royal Navy’s fleet of submarines. This contract between Rolls-Royce Submarines Ltd and the UK MoD, forms a single, harmonious capability portfolio.
Unity will enable improved focus on simplification and efficiency and better outcomes for the UK Royal Navy. It represents a significant undertaking and investment by the UK government and industry, providing thousands of highly skilled jobs across the country and an enduring commitment for the decades ahead. This is truly a national endeavour.
Rolls-Royce designs, builds and maintains all of the nuclear reactors that power the Royal Navy’s fleet of submarines. This eight-year Unity contract is worth circa £9 billion and will provide full support of the in-service UK Royal Navy submarine fleet throughout the period. It also includes continued support of the build and commission of Dreadnought Class submarines and the beginning of the previously announced SSN-AUKUS contracts.
The contract is the first of its kind awarded by the UK MoD and is the culmination of years of planning between Rolls-Royce and UK MoD, potentially creating a new way of doing business between Government and industry. It signposts the UK’s commitment to the continuous at sea nuclear deterrent and Rolls-Royce’s continuing dedication to the UK Royal Navy and the Defence Nuclear Enterprise.
With a long-term commitment across the Rolls-Royce Submarine programmes, Unity draws together current and upcoming work into one portfolio. It is designed to incentivise an even more collaborative working relationship between Rolls-Royce and the UK MoD.
Steve Carlier, President Rolls-Royce Submarines said:”We’re delighted to announce the Unity contract, which confirms our commitment to the Royal Navy and the Defence Nuclear Enterprise. This long-term contract enables us to invest in the right skills, equipment, and facilities to play our part in protecting UK interests at home and overseas.”
The Unity Contract will create an additional 1,000 new roles within Rolls-Royce Submarines by the end of the contract. This will predominantly be seen in Derby, but also includes recently announced satellite offices in Glasgow and Cardiff.
The Unity contract also brings opportunities to the supply chain, the vast majority of which is in the UK. The ability to develop long term, strategic relationships with long lead times means more capability, a longer lookahead and more competition in the supply chain, bringing enhanced benefit to the UK economy.
