A £250M contract to modernise the Royal Navy’s warship and submarine communications has been awarded to Thales UK, securing over 100 high-skilled jobs across Portsmouth, Plymouth, Crawley, Reading, and Bristol.
This 10-year Maritime Communications Capability Support (MCCS) contract, awarded by Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), represents the largest-ever investment in naval communications capabilities, supporting the UK’s continuous at-sea deterrent and global naval operations.
Boost for UK Defence Jobs & Industry
100+ high-skilled jobs secured across key Thales UK sites £25–30 million in cost savings for the Royal Navy over the next decade Strengthens UK sovereign defence capabilities while reducing reliance on foreign suppliers Supports the objectives of the upcoming Defence Industrial Strategy, ensuring UK defence spending fuels domestic growth
Maria Eagle MP, Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, said: “This new contract is a vital step in ensuring our forces remain secure at home and strong abroad. By enhancing naval communication capabilities, we are reinforcing the UK’s ability to respond to threats wherever they arise. The Defence Industrial Strategy will drive investment into British businesses, boost defence jobs, and strengthen national security.”
Replacing the previous Fleetwide Communications contract, the new MCCS deal provides enhanced naval communication infrastructure for all Royal Navy vessels and submarines. It includes real-time operations support, equipment maintenance, and inventory management, ensuring mission-critical systems remain fully operational.
Commodore Phil Game, Director of Sense, Decide & Communicate at DE&S, highlighted the “one defence” team approach, designed to cut bureaucracy and streamline operations, he commented: “By working more collaboratively with Thales UK, we are increasing efficiency while ensuring the Royal Navy remains equipped with world-class communications technology. This approach will deliver £25-30M in through-life cost savings over the contract period.”
Phil Siveter, CEO of Thales in the UK, said: “This long-term support contract reaffirms our commitment to keeping the Royal Navy at the forefront of defence technology. By driving innovation and systems integration, we are ensuring our fleet remains mission-ready today and into the future.”
This investment aligns with the government’s Defence Industrial Strategy, ensuring defence spending directly supports UK industry, secures high-skilled jobs, and enhances the Royal Navy’s global operational readiness.
Image:UK MOD © Crown copyright 2025
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Vicky has worked in media for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.
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