Linklaters has advised the Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom (the “MoD”) on its £4.2bn acquisition of a further five Type 26 Frigates from BAE Systems Surface Ships Ltd (“BAES”). The firm has advised the MoD on the Type 26 Programme since its inception, including in relation to the acquisition of the first three Type 26 Frigates.
The Type 26 Frigates, of which the first – HMS Glasgow – has just been floated on the Clyde, are designed as replacements for the Royal Navy’s current Type 23 Frigates. They will undertake the Royal Navy’s three core roles of warfighting, maritime security and international engagement, and will lead the Royal Navy’s anti-submarine warfare surface fleet. The vessels are designed to reduce environmental impacts, and are fitted with features to optimise fuel efficiency which reduces nitrogen oxide exhaust.
The announcement of the additional five vessels formed an integral part of the Prime Minister’s attendance at the G20 summit. This deal displays Linklaters’ market-leading and cross-practice expertise in the maritime defence sector. The firm’s work in the UK alone has also involved advising in relation to the Type 45 Destroyers, Type 31 Frigates, Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers, offshore patrol vessels and submarines. On the back of this role, Linklaters have also just been appointed to assist on one of Canada’s surface ship programmes.
The core team consisted of partner Richard Coar, managing associate Karen Clarke, and Will Morton (all Energy & Infrastructure, London).
