The Ministry of Defence is exploring a major support contract worth up to GBP 150 million for the supply and maintenance of hoses, pipework and valves used on Royal Navy vessels.
Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) has issued a preliminary market engagement notice seeking industry input ahead of a potential procurement covering the supply of spare parts, repairs and engineering support for what it describes as hoses, pipework, engineering and valves (HPV).
The future contract is expected to include sourcing and manufacturing components, as well as providing technical support, repairs and post-design services for naval platforms. It would also cover associated fittings and assemblies, along with inventory management, packaging and delivery to Ministry of Defence locations.
The notice says that the engagement aims to understand the capacity and capability of suppliers across the market, including manufacturers, distributors and specialist engineering firms. The department is also seeking views on supply chain resilience, lead times, materials, manufacturing approaches and potential commercial models for delivering the work.
The contract could run for five years beginning in 2027, initially for three years with two optional one-year extensions. If awarded, the work would primarily support Royal Navy vessels operating from the United Kingdom, with the possibility of overseas deliveries for deployed units.
A supplier briefing event is expected to take place in April, followed by potential one-to-one discussions with industry participants. A formal tender could be issued later in 2026 if the project proceeds.
£150 million for plumbing 🤦
The people who issue contracts such as this… are they stupid, or on the take?
Ah pipes, nice one…….