UK awards £283.5m defence contracts to maintain 3,000 military boats until 2033
The Ministry of Defence has awarded nine contracts worth £283.5 million to maintain and support around 3,000 boats used by the UK Armed Forces and MOD Police. The deals, part of the Boats In-Service Support programme (BISS26), will run from April 2026 to March 2033 and ensure the continued availability of vessels critical for patrolling, interception, and nuclear deterrence operations. The contracts have been shared among five companies: Babcock, Serco, Golden Arrow Marine, UK Docks, and Griffon Marine Ltd. UK Docks secured three of the nine lots, while Griffon Marine and Babcock each won two, and Serco and Golden Arrow Marine one apiece. This distribution reflects a deliberate effort to spread work across multiple providers, including UK-owned small and medium-sized enterprises.
The BISS26 programme supports Royal Navy vessels linked to the Continuous At-Sea Deterrent (CASD) mission, covering Vanguard-class and Dreadnought-class nuclear submarines at HMNB Clyde. It also maintains surface ships such as Astute-class attack submarines and Type 23/26 frigates, alongside boats used by MOD Police for enforcement at naval bases.
At least £250 million of the funding will flow exclusively through UK-based businesses. The work is expected to create and sustain over 100 skilled jobs across England, Scotland, and Wales. Additionally, activity tied to the contracts will drive site redevelopment and infrastructure upgrades in locations like Teesside, Gosport, Plymouth, and Cornwall.
The vessels covered by these contracts serve a wide range of operations, from patrolling and interception to supporting the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Fleet Auxiliary, and MOD Police. The nine contracts will guarantee the operational readiness of around 3,000 boats essential for defence and security missions. With funding directed toward UK-owned firms and job creation spread across multiple regions, the programme also strengthens domestic industry and infrastructure. The deals remain in effect until March 2033.
