It is the first time that supply chain companies for both the Dreadnought and SSNA programmes have come together in one place to share their learnings and experience.
It was a great opportunity to introduce the Submarine Production Alliance (SPA) which, once fully-formed, will deliver great collaboration for both programmes across four key parties: Babcock, Submarine Delivery Agency., BAE systems, Rolls-Royce and the newest member of our production Alliance, Babcock.
The Submarine Production Alliance is being created to bring together the Dreadnought, SSNA and future submarine production programmes under a single portfolio. To allow for greater efficiency, economy of scale and long-range enablement; across Supply Chain, Engineering, Programme Management, Approvals, and Supporting Functions.
It will be built on the same enduring behaviours and ways of working that we have benefited from as part of the Dreadnought Alliance, one of which is to ‘stand together’. Preparation work to create the Submarine Production Alliance is ongoing and a multi-party agreement between Babcock, BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce and the Submarine Delivery Agency is expected to be signed towards the end of 2025.
Colleagues were welcomed with an introduction from Tony Meggs, Independent Chair of the Submarine Production Alliance, followed by presentations by some of the suppliers about how they have improved programme delivery over recent years.
There was also further opportunity to learn from one another in breakout sessions and conversations, as well as an AUKUS panel and Supply Chain Senior Leaders panel where suppliers could ask questions directly.
Speaking to the attendees, Maria Eagle MP, Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, said: “Today is the first opportunity to bring supply chain leads together under the new banner of the Submarine Production Alliance (SPA). The SPA brings together two programmes with one purpose – to drive world class delivery of the UK’s sovereign submarine capabilities.
“This conference is a great opportunity to discuss how we can drive efficiencies and performance improvements through the Submarine Production Alliance supply chain and how we can maximise your contribution to that process.
“Britain can only maintain its ultimate deterrent thanks to the suppliers and skilled workforce all around the country, who have built, supported and maintained our submarine fleet for over half a century with extraordinary professionalism and dedication. Today we look forward to a new era for the fleet. A new generation of nuclear-powered vessels. And new opportunities for the submarine supply chain to shape the future defence and security of the United Kingdom, allied with our international partners.”
Awards for excellence
The Supply Chain event also saw a number of awards being presented for excellence. BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce nominated suppliers for each category and the Submarine Production Alliance Senior Leaders made the final selection. The award winners were:
- Innovation – Castle Engineering
- Safety – McLoughlin & Harvey
- Collaboration – Drumgrange
- Cost Consciousness – SCHOTT AG
- Quality – Hydrogroup
A significant milestone for the UK’s submarine enterprise
Maddy McTernan, Chief of Defence Nuclear, Ministry of Defence, said: “Today marks a significant milestone for the UK’s submarine enterprise with the launch of the Submarine Production Alliance. This is a transformative step forward – one that unites us under a shared vision to deliver our national endeavour.
“The [Submarine Production] Alliance represents a way of working built on collaboration, innovation and a commitment to excellence. It’s about bringing together the best of our supply chain, MOD colleagues and international partners to meet the challenges ahead and seize the opportunities before us.
“The work we do together is vital – not just for the UK but also for our allies and for global security. It’s a privilege to be part of this endeavour and I want to thank each of you for your dedication and expertise.”
Award photos
Download a zip file of the award photography
Event video
Download the event highlights video from Vimeo.