LONDON - Britain is in talks with Canada about a possible joint program to develop a frigate for their respective navies, according to U.K. Defence Minister Gerald Howarth.
Responding to questions from parliamentarians Jan. 31, Howarth said the British government is in "close discussion with the Canadians" on a possible collaborative program to develop the Global Combat Ship, destined to replace Type 23 frigates in Royal Navy service by the start of the next decade.
The minister said Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand and Turkey have expressed interest in the warship program, to be called the Type 26 in Royal Navy service, when Defence Secretary Liam Fox recently visited the various countries.
The British government is mounting a major effort to increase defense exports in the next few years to offset the downturn in military budgets at home, and has identified the Global Combat Ship as a key platform for a collaborative effort with Commonwealth and other allies.
BAE Systems has been working since last year on a 127 million-pound ($202 million) assessment phase to provide a warship capable of supporting land operations and conducting other roles, such as anti-submarine warfare.
Last year, the company, supported by the government, made proposals to Brazil to build up naval capabilities, including joint development of the Global Combat Ship. Italy, France and others have also shown an interest in the Brazilian program.
Responding to questions from parliamentarians Jan. 31, Howarth said the British government is in "close discussion with the Canadians" on a possible collaborative program to develop the Global Combat Ship, destined to replace Type 23 frigates in Royal Navy service by the start of the next decade.
The minister said Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand and Turkey have expressed interest in the warship program, to be called the Type 26 in Royal Navy service, when Defence Secretary Liam Fox recently visited the various countries.
The British government is mounting a major effort to increase defense exports in the next few years to offset the downturn in military budgets at home, and has identified the Global Combat Ship as a key platform for a collaborative effort with Commonwealth and other allies.
BAE Systems has been working since last year on a 127 million-pound ($202 million) assessment phase to provide a warship capable of supporting land operations and conducting other roles, such as anti-submarine warfare.
Last year, the company, supported by the government, made proposals to Brazil to build up naval capabilities, including joint development of the Global Combat Ship. Italy, France and others have also shown an interest in the Brazilian program.
No comments:
Post a Comment