The Government's continuing commitment to the next generation of aircraft carriers has secured the future of shipyards on the Clyde. Two stern blocks for the massive carriers are currently under construction at BAE System's Govan shipyards.
BAE Systems has welcomed the Government's Strategic Defence and
Security Review which was published on 19 October 2010.
Alan Johnston, Managing Director
at BAE Systems' Surface Ships division, said: "We warmly welcome
the UK Government's confirmed commitment to the outstanding
capabilities of the Type 45 destroyers, two Queen Elizabeth Class
aircraft carriers, development of the Type 26 Global Combat Ship
and the long-term support of the surface fleet at Portsmouth Naval
Base.
"We remain committed to working
with the Ministry of Defence to drive substantial efficiencies
across maritime naval procurement, whilst continuing to deliver
world-class capability to the Royal Navy and sustaining the skills
to build and support complex warships in the UK."
Construction of the Queen
Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers is significantly advanced at six
shipyards across the UK, with two stern blocks being built at BAE
Systems' Govan yard on the Clyde and a centre section of the hull
in build at its Portsmouth facility.
BAE Systems will continue to work
with the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and partners in the Aircraft
Carrier Alliance to maintain momentum on the build programme,
whilst advancing the work required for conversion of the ships to
incorporate conventional launch aircraft.