Babcock and Saab Denmark have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore integrating shipborne communications systems into future Arrowhead frigates, including possible ships for Denmark, according to Babcock.
The agreement covers customer engagement, technical information exchange and systems integration studies, and Babcock said it would add to a network of Denmark-based companies able to contribute to future programmes.
Sir Nick Hine, Chief Growth Officer and Chief Executive – Marine, Babcock, said: “Working with local capability sits at the heart of our approach to naval programmes around the world. Through this agreement with Saab Denmark, we are bringing together complementary expertise to explore how advanced communications capabilities can be integrated into future Arrowhead opportunities including those in Denmark.
“Our experience in building strong industrial partnerships, across the globe has demonstrated the value of creating national ecosystems of suppliers and technology partners that deliver long-term benefits for customers, industry and national security. We look forward to working closely with Saab Denmark to support that vision.”
Henrik Madsen, Chief Commercial Officer, Saab Denmark A/S, said: “Saab Danmark offers proven expertise in integrating and sustaining mission-critical communication systems for naval customers. With strong local engineering capabilities, software development expertise and decades of operational experience, we help ensure secure, reliable and interoperable communications that support mission success throughout the capability lifecycle.”
Babcock signed a letter of collaboration in August with the Danish consortium Danske Flådeskibe, under which modules would be built at several Danish sites and assembled at Semco Maritime’s facilities in Esbjerg, and the company estimates that could support about 2,000 direct and indirect jobs in Denmark. At the same event it signed memoranda with Stormborn, Cubedin and SH Group. The Arrowhead 140 design derives from Denmark’s Iver Huitfeldt class and is the basis of the Royal Navy’s Type 31 frigates.
Denmark has yet to choose a supplier. Shephard reported last month that no formal competition is under way and described Naval Group’s FDI as the favourite, with Navantia’s F110 batch II and potentially Rheinmetall’s GMF 140 also in contention. Danish Defence Minister Jeppe Bruus has told parliament that the government is still building its analysis of military needs, timing and costs, and a report in September said people familiar with the process expect the decision to slip into 2027.
Much as I would like Babcock to secure ship building orders their current performance in building our type 31’s can not be impressing any potential buyers.
There will be very strong competition from the French Fdi frigate which is at sea and already secured more orders.
Come on Babcock/MOD pull your finger out
So, SAAB Giraffe and Terma Scanter radars and SAAB EO sensors like the Luleå-class and mostly built and assembled in Denmark – must make Babcock favourite for the Danish order.