Managing Director

The integration of our naval shipbuilding and support business into BAE Systems in October 2009 was the latest step of our UK maritime transformation programme undertaken in response to the changes outlined in the Defence Industrial Strategy in 2005. Now wholly owned by BAE Systems, the business has been renamed BAE Systems Surface Ships Ltd.

We have made tremendous progress toward transformation of the UK warship building and support industry in the UK in a short period of time. The signing of the 15 year Terms of Business Agreement with the MOD in July 2009, was a significant step for our business and retains key industrial skills in the UK. In addition, a few examples among many include the progress on the first of the Queen Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carriers, with the hull sections taking shape in our yards in Portsmouth and on the Clyde; delivery of HMS Daring and Dauntless to the Royal Navy; the Type 45 support contract which is now well underway; and start of the assessment phase for the Type 26 programme to develop the next generation combat ship for the Royal Navy.

An exciting and formidable through life surface ship business has been created and as part of BAE Systems we will to continue to forge our way forward in achieving our vision of setting the global standard in excellence as a trusted partner and innovative through life naval ship company.