MoD Seeks Suppliers for £150M 40mm Grenade Contract
The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced plans to initiate a competitive procurement process for 40mm grenades, with an estimated contract value ranging between £134 million and £165 million. This significant procurement is aimed at sourcing a comprehensive suite of high-velocity and low-velocity 40mm grenades.
To kick off the process, the MoD has issued a Prior Information Notice (PIN) to engage the market and gather feedback from potential suppliers. The procurement process is set to begin in the second quarter of 2024, with the Defence General Munitions (DGM) team exploring options for the provision of these grenades starting from June 2025.
The MoD is actively seeking input from suppliers regarding the proposed contract strategy, which includes a five or seven-year hybrid framework. The first three years of the contract would be fixed, while the remaining years would operate on a flexible framework, with pricing assessed annually based on a base price and an index.
“This PIN is being issued to understand market research and the potential suppliers’ feedback to our proposed strategy,” the notice states. The Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) organization welcomes interest from individual suppliers or prime contractors capable of managing the total requirement.
The MoD’s engagement with the market aims to ensure the acquisition of high-quality 40mm grenades that meet the needs of the UK armed forces, enhancing their operational capabilities and effectiveness.
JVAT Joins MoD Hypersonics Framework
Management consultancy JVAT has been awarded a place on the UK Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) Hypersonic Technologies & Capability Development Framework (HTCDF). This prestigious framework is designed to offer a swift and flexible route to market, facilitating the efficient realization of advanced hypersonic capabilities.
The HTCDF will be utilized to select suppliers for services and supplies essential to the research, development, and testing of hypersonic technologies, ensuring the UK remains at the forefront of this critical capability. Hypersonic is a key component of AUKUS Pillar II, and JVAT’s global support, through its engineering and assurance expertise, is integral to this effort.
About JVAT
JVAT specializes in addressing complex challenges across Australia, the UK, and the US, providing a specialized team of engineering, management, and assurance experts. Their cross-functional understanding and collaborative approach with other companies make them an asset in the innovative and agile development of hypersonic technologies.
Ovzon Wins 12-Month MoD Satellite Contract
Ovzon, a global leader in mobile satellite communications services, has announced the extension of its contract with Babcock International, a prominent defence, aerospace, and security group. This 12-month contract renewal ensures the continued delivery of Ovzon’s Satcom-as-a-Service to the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD).
This marks the fourth consecutive year that Ovzon has been entrusted with providing satellite connectivity services to the MoD. The comprehensive Satcom-as-a-Service package includes a robust and high-performing satellite network, Ovzon T6 mobile satellite terminals, gateway services, and dedicated customer service and support. This extension underscores the ongoing confidence in Ovzon’s capabilities and the critical role its services play in supporting the UK’s defence operations.
“We are honoured to continue our collaboration with Babcock International and the UK Ministry of Defence,” said an Ovzon spokesperson. “This renewal is a testament to the reliability and effectiveness of our satellite communications solutions in meeting the demanding needs of defence operations.”
Ovzon’s advanced satellite services are designed to deliver resilient and secure communication capabilities, ensuring seamless connectivity for defence and security missions. The ongoing partnership with the MoD highlights Ovzon’s commitment to excellence and innovation in satellite communications technology.
About Ovzon
Ovzon is a leading provider of mobile satellite communications services, offering innovative and reliable solutions for defence, aerospace, and commercial applications. With a focus on delivering high-performance satellite connectivity, Ovzon supports critical operations across the globe.
SeeByte Secures Extended UK MoD Contract
SeeByte, a prominent provider of smart software solutions for unmanned maritime systems, has announced the extension of its contract with the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD). The newly awarded three-year contract enables SeeByte to continue its crucial support for the UK’s Mine Hunting Capability (MHC) programme.
This extension reaffirms the MoD’s trust in SeeByte’s cutting-edge technology and expertise in unmanned maritime systems. The MHC programme, a cornerstone of the UK’s maritime security strategy, focuses on enhancing the nation’s mine countermeasure operations. By utilizing SeeByte’s advanced software solutions, the programme aims to ensure the Royal Navy’s effectiveness in detecting and neutralizing underwater threats.
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the UK Ministry of Defence,” said a SeeByte spokesperson. “This contract extension highlights the MoD’s confidence in our technology and its pivotal role in safeguarding maritime operations.”
SeeByte has been a key player in providing sophisticated solutions that improve the operational capabilities of unmanned maritime systems. The continued collaboration with the MoD will ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of mine hunting and maritime defence technologies, securing its waters against potential threats.
About SeeByte
See Byte is a leading provider of smart software solutions for unmanned maritime systems, specializing in advanced technology for defence and commercial applications. With a focus on innovation and reliability, SeeByte delivers state-of-the-art solutions to enhance operational capabilities and ensure maritime security.
Bristol Airport Invests £11.5m in Security Scanners
Bristol Airport has announced a significant investment of £11.5 million in state-of-the-art security scanners, ushering in a new era of convenience for travellers. The deployment of next-generation scanners allows passengers to retain their mobile phones, laptops, and liquids in their hand luggage during the security screening process.
Starting from June 14, 2024, all passengers departing from Bristol Airport will benefit from these enhanced security measures. The new technology eliminates the need for passengers to adhere to the 100ml limit for toiletries and liquids, and they can now keep laptops, tablets, and mobile phones in their hand luggage.
While awaiting regulatory approval, passengers are restricted to carrying liquids in containers up to 330ml in size. However, all other electronic devices and liquids within this limit can remain in the hand luggage, streamlining the security screening process.
The new security regulations require passengers to keep all items, including liquids up to 330ml in size, in their hand luggage bag. Additionally, mobile phones, electrical items, and laptops can now stay in the bag during screening, simplifying the security procedure further. Passengers are also required to empty their pockets into their bag, and the contents of metal water bottles must be emptied.
Bristol Airport’s investment in these advanced security measures is part of a broader commitment to customer enhancements. Over the next five years, the airport plans to invest over £400 million in various upgrades, including a new public transport interchange, additional multistorey car parks, new retail and catering areas, and other customer-centric improvements.
That’s a wrap, Until next week…