Rolls-Royce has signed its largest-ever contract with the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD), an eight-year agreement worth approximately £9 billion.
Dubbed the “Unity” contract, it encompasses the research, design, manufacture, and support of nuclear reactors that power the Royal Navy’s fleet of submarines, marking a significant milestone for the Defence Nuclear Enterprise.
The Unity contract consolidates previous agreements, streamlining collaboration between Rolls-Royce Submarines and the MoD. This approach aims to improve efficiency and enhance outcomes for the Royal Navy, ensuring long-term investment in skills, facilities, and jobs across the UK.
According to Rolls-Royce Submarines President Steve Carlier, the deal reflects the company’s “commitment to the Royal Navy and the Defence Nuclear Enterprise” while enabling proactive collaboration and innovation.
Boosting Jobs and Strategic Resilience
The agreement will create 1,000 new roles within Rolls-Royce Submarines, with most based in Derby and additional positions in newly announced satellite offices in Glasgow and Cardiff. It also secures 4,000 existing jobs, providing stability for the UK’s defence sector and its supply chain.
Defence Secretary John Healey highlighted the contract as a key component of the government’s defence industrial strategy, stating, “This investment in Britain’s defence will deliver a long-term boost to British business, jobs, and national security.”
Unity’s scope extends to supporting the in-service submarine fleet, the build and commissioning of the Dreadnought-class submarines, and the initial phases of the SSN-AUKUS programme. By fostering long-term relationships within the supply chain, the contract promises enhanced capabilities and economic benefits across the UK.
Sir Chris Gardner, CEO of the Submarine Delivery Agency, called the agreement a “key milestone” in the Rolls-Royce and MoD partnership, enabling “greater effectiveness, efficiency, and agility” while securing a pipeline of home-grown nuclear skills.
Great for Rolls Royce since the project will inevitably be inflated and they will probably pocket double
How is the weather n Moscow?
What? How is that relevant?it was in reference to the MoD’s track record. Not everything is related to moscow
He is suggesting that you are a Russian troll because you had the audacity to suggest UK defence projects are late and over budget 🤣