Leonardo UK has been awarded a £12.5 million contract to supply three Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems for the Royal Navy’s Fleet Solid Support (FSS) ships, along with technical support and spares for both the FSS and Type 31 frigates.
A UK6 contract award notice, published on 7 August 2025, confirms the Ministry of Defence’s decision but makes clear the deal has not yet been signed. Under UK procurement rules, the publication of a UK6 notice starts a standstill period of at least eight working days before a contract can be finalised.
In this case, the standstill ends on 18 August, with 5 September listed as the earliest possible signing date.
The notice covers “procurement of three IFF systems for Fleet Solid Support (FSS) with technical support and spares for both Type 31 and FSS.” The award has been made via direct award to Leonardo UK Limited, with options for additional purchases and warranty extensions during the contract’s life.
Identification Friend or Foe is a vital capability in modern naval ops. It uses encrypted transponders and interrogators to allow ships and aircraft to identify allied or neutral forces and distinguish them from potential threats. IFF reduces the risk of fratricide, especially in complex maritime and littoral environments where multiple allied units may be operating in close proximity. Without reliable IFF, forces risk delays in engagement or accidental targeting of friendly assets.
The systems to be supplied will also need to integrate with other shipborne sensors and combat management systems, supporting secure, low-probability-of-intercept communications. In contested battlespace, such systems are critical for maintaining situational awareness and enabling rapid decision-making in line with rules of engagement.
The Type 31 frigate, also known as the Inspiration-class, is being built by Babcock at Rosyth, with the first of five ships, HMS Venturer, expected to enter service later this decade. Designed as a general-purpose frigate, the Type 31 will carry a flexible mix of sensors and weapons for tasks ranging from maritime security and counter-piracy to escort duties and participation in high-intensity operations.
Fleet Solid Support ships, meanwhile, are being built to resupply the Royal Navy’s carrier strike groups and other deployed forces with ammunition, food, spare parts, and other stores while underway. Constructed by Team Resolute, led by Navantia UK, these vessels will be a key part of sustaining operations worldwide.
