Possible boost for British shipbuilders from Saudi Arabia

Possible boost for British shipbuilders from Saudi Arabia

When the Type 45 Destroyer programme began it was often said that the advanced warship was a world-beater and could lead to a massive boost in naval exports. It would appear such positive sentiment took a step closer to being a positive prediction as British newspaper The Independent reveals that Saudi Arabia is interested in ordering at least two of the vessels.

The report however is short on detail and no sources are attributed.

However if it is true and a deal goes ahead it would be a massive boost for shipbuilders on the Clyde and at Portsmouth.

The newspaper claims that one option being looked at is Saudi buying two destroyers already earmarked for the Royal Navy, presumably the option for another two destroyers on top of the already agreed programme.

Some sections of the ships are built at VT's Portsmouth yard with the majority of build, launch and final outfitting taking place at BAE System's Glasgow shipyards.

So far two destroyers have been launched, HMS DARING in 2006 and HMS DAUNTLESS in January of this year. Four others; DUNCAN, DEFENDER, DIAMOND and DRAGON, are on the books or in the process of construction.

(PHOTO: Stuart Cameron)