This article was originally published on our DSEI Defence News hub, which provides the latest defence insights and procurement opportunities for businesses. 

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has issued a request for information (RFI) to industry for the procurement of uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) and launch and recovery systems (LARS).

Up to 24 UUVs and eight LARS to support mine hunting and seabed surveillance are expected to be procured under the Mine Hunting Capability (MHC) Block 2 programme, the RFI detailed on 14 April.

Pending the results of the RFI, the programme has an estimated value of GBP125 million, with the contract spanning around three years.

This RFI forms part of the wider Defence Equipment & Support MHC Block 2 programme, which aims to develop a new, effective mine countermeasure (MCM) capability for the Royal Navy. Uncrewed platforms are an essential element of this.

Little technical detail regarding the specific capabilities are provided in the RFI. DSEI understands that this was deliberate to open the floor to a broad range of solutions. This mirrors the approach taken in Block 1, which explored concepts to create an uncrewed MCM capability. 

While the specifications are left open, DSEI understands that a synthetic aperture sonar payload is important.

Other contracts related to Block 2 are expected, including a synthetic system level training facility, the MoD previously stated in December 2023. The MoD is also considering acquiring three new motherships to support the programme.

Along with this RFI for UUVs and LARS, the MoD published a notice in April informing interested parties that it has awarded Thales the MHC Block 2 Remote Command Centre (RCC) Integration and Supply contract.

This will involve Thales integrating the Royal Navy’s currently disparate and separately controlled MHC platforms and autonomous capabilities into its Mine Counter Measures (MMCM) RCC, thereby allowing integrated command, control and operation of the full range of platforms, systems and sub-systems.

Developing an effective mine counter measure system is a key priority not just for the UK, but also its ally France. Both countries are subsequently collaborating on developing a joint Maritime MMCM system. Part of this includes the 11m uncrewed surface vessel from L3Harris, Samdis towed synthetic aperture payload from Thales, and a Saab Multi-Shot Mine Neutralisation System.

Author - Olivia Savage, Editor in Chief of Clarion Defence.