Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Defence
  • /
  • BAE Systems and ISI set for next phase of Canada's River-class destroyer programme

Defence

BAE Systems and ISI set for next phase of Canada's River-class destroyer programme

A contract has been signed between BAE Systems and Canada’s Irving Shipbuilding Inc. (ISI), marking the start of the next major phase on the River-class destroyer programme.

Above: BAE Systems and Irving Shipbuilding Inc. sign contract for next phase of Canada’s River-class destroyer programme.
Courtesy BAE Systems

BAE Systems and Irving Shipbuilding Inc. sign contract for next phase of Canada’s River-class destroyer programme.

It follows the Canadian Government’s award of an implementation contract to ISI for the construction and delivery of the first three of 15 planned ships as well as the development and delivery of training, spares and maintenance to support the ships in service.
 
The River-class destroyer programme is the largest and most complex shipbuilding effort undertaken in Canada since the Second World War. It will provide decisive combat power for operations at sea and in support of joint-force operations ashore. The River-class will also support missions conducted including counter-piracy, counterterrorism, intelligence and surveillance, humanitarian assistance, research and rescue.
 
BAE Systems has designed the ship to meet the Royal Canadian Navy’s specific requirements and under this new contract will provide support and consultancy services throughout the build phase. This will ensure that ISI benefits from the expertise and learning gained across the UK’s Type 26 and Australia’s Hunter class programmes.

Advertisement
ODU RT


 
Anderson Smith, International Programmes Director, BAE Systems said: “This contract marks a significant moment for the River-class destroyer programme and I’m hugely proud of our team for their collective hard work and determination to bring us to this point. As we move into this next phase, our expertise and collaboration with our industry partners will be key to delivering a world-class capability for Canada. Our team will play a crucial role ensuring the successful delivery of the first batch of three ships and we’re looking forward to the journey ahead.”

Advertisement
ODU RT

Dirk Lesko, President, Irving Shipbuilding Inc. said: “This is a major milestone for Irving Shipbuilding and for Canada. This contract validates more than a decade of hard work by industry and government and provides stability for the hard-working men and women who design, build and maintain Canada’s surface fleet.”
 
With the UK, Australia and Canada all selecting the Global Combat Ship design, this collaborative programme spans three nations and a potential 29-ship fleet.

Advertisement
Babcock LB
DE&S takes ownership of new £98.5m warehouse facility

Defence

DE&S takes ownership of new £98.5m warehouse facility

29 April 2025

UK Armed Forces are better equipped for ever-evolving global security threats, as the construction of the Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) new state-of-the-art storage facility at Longtown in Cumbria is complete.

BAE Systems receives US Marine Corps ACV-30 FRP contract

Defence

BAE Systems receives US Marine Corps ACV-30 FRP contract

29 April 2025

BAE Systems has been awarded a $188.5 million full-rate production (FRP) contract from the US Marine Corps for 30 ACV-30mm vehicles, which includes fielding support, spares and test equipment.

MBDA invests in UK

Defence

MBDA invests in UK's Hydra Drones

29 April 2025

Hybrid Drones Ltd – producers of the hybrid Jet-Electric Hydra 400 uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) – has announced that MBDA is investing in its innovative technology.

Defence Innovation Loans open to UK SMEs

Defence

Defence Innovation Loans open to UK SMEs

29 April 2025

The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) supported by Innovate UK Loans Ltd (Innovate UK) are working together to offer Defence Innovation Loans aimed at SMEs.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Marshall wins Thales contract to produce Royal Navy sonar modules

Defence

Marshall wins Thales contract to produce Royal Navy sonar modules

28 April 2025

Marshall has received a long-term contract from Thales UK to manufacture, maintain and support key components of anti-submarine sonar arrays that provide a critical edge for the UK’s Royal Navy.

Navantia UK appoints Derek Jones as Chief Commercial and Business Development Officer

Defence

Navantia UK appoints Derek Jones as Chief Commercial and Business Development Officer

28 April 2025

Navantia UK has today announced the appointment of Derek Jones as Chief Commercial and Business Development Officer.

Advertisement
ODU RT