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Defence Secretary visits Hebburn as part of National Shipbuilding Strategy

Hebburn-based shipyard A&P Tyne welcomed Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon today (October 30) as part of his nationwide tour of UK shipyards.

The MOD spent £400m with UK industry in the North East last year, supporting over 2,600 jobs in the region.

A&P Tyne, which has played a crucial role in major defence programmes, such as building blocks for the UK’s new aircraft carriers and key parts for nuclear submarines, gave the Minister a guided tour of the site which supports 300 jobs in the region.

Following the launch of the Government’s National Shipbuilding Strategy last month, industry has developed over 20 different proposals for new Type 31e frigates.

A&P are involved in one of the early plans with Cammell Laird and BAE Systems to deliver the new class of ships.

Shipyards across the country were invited to provide initial high-level proposals to build the initial order of five ships at a maximum average price of £250m each.

The Defence Secretary, who is attending every major UK shipyard in the run up to the start of the formal competition to procure the new class of Type 31e in the New Year, said: “It is very encouraging to witness the renaissance of shipbuilding around the UK first hand.

“Having helped build our new aircraft carriers and the Astute Class submarines, A&P Tyne have the skills and expertise to bid for our brand new class of frigates.

“The whole industry is clearly excited about the opportunity to build cutting-edge ships for our growing Royal Navy, which will protect our nation and interests across the world.”

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