UK's MoD Contract Raises Concerns Over Potential Chinese Involvement in Tug Boats
The UK's Ministry of Defence has awarded a £200m contract for 24 support vessels to a Dutch manufacturer, raising concerns about potential Chinese involvement in subcontracting. These vessels are essential for moving nuclear submarines and surface vessels, and fears have intensified due to security risks following China's hostile reactions to UK naval operations. An MoD spokesperson assured that the vessels will not be built in China, while GMB Scotland criticized the lack of consultation with UK shipyards and called for transparency in the procurement process.
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The UK Ministry of Defence awarded a £200m contract for 24 support vessels to a Dutch manufacturer, raising fears about potential Chinese involvement. The vessels are vital for moving nuclear submarines and surface vessels.
The Royal Navy previously secured a £1bn contract for base support, allowing Serco to subcontract without UK bids. Damen Shipyards is constructing the vessels under a broader £850m contract. Concerns about subcontracting to Chinese firms have intensified due to security risks, particularly after hostile reactions from China regarding UK naval operations.
An MoD spokesperson confirmed that vessels will not be built in China, and future maintenance will occur in the UK. GMB Scotland criticized the lack of consultation with UK shipyards, demanding transparency in the procurement process.
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