Babcock is moving into the main construction phase of the 10 Dock redevelopment programme at our Devonport facility, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of infrastructure to support the UK’s submarine fleet and long-term national defence capability on behalf of the Defence Nuclear Enterprise (DNE).
As part of this next phase, Babcock has awarded a MOD funded circa £600 million contract to KierBAM to deliver the dock’s water-retaining boundary and associated infrastructure. The contract builds on the completion of enabling works, including the commissioning of an on-site concrete batching plant, and represents a key step forward in delivering this nationally important asset.
The upgraded facility will support deep maintenance of Royal Navy submarines, helping sustain submarine availability and ensure the UK retains the capability and capacity needed for our national security.
The contract highlights the importance of strong delivery partnerships and a resilient UK supply chain. Through Defence funding and working with KierBAM and its wider supply chain, we are helping to support UK industry and local economic growth. The wider 10 Dock programme is expected to support around 1,500 jobs across the supply chain, including approximately 300 Babcock roles at Devonport, while creating opportunities for local businesses and apprentices.
Phil Brown, Managing Director of Major Nuclear Capital Programmes, Babcock said: “This contract marks a significant milestone in the delivery of 10 Dock and reflects the strength of the partnerships underpinning this nationally important programme. By working closely with KierBAM and our wider supply chain, we are building the infrastructure, skills and industrial capability needed to support the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet and strengthen the UK’s long-term defence resilience.”
Rear Admiral Martyn Boyes, Director Submarine Support at the DNE, said: “The redevelopment of 10 Dock is an important part of the Defence Nuclear Enterprise’s investment in the infrastructure required to support the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet. Working alongside our industry partners, we are strengthening the facilities and capability needed to sustain submarine availability now and into the future. This contract award is a crucial next step on that journey.”
Craig Small, KierBAM Joint Venture board member said: “This is a critical piece of infrastructure that will support the future resilience and capability of the UK’s defence enterprise. Drawing on KBJV’s extensive experience in the nuclear and defence sectors, we are proud to be working with Babcock to deliver a project that will help meet the evolving needs of the Royal Navy and strengthen the UK’s long-term security.”