Hush-hush RIB contract nears completion for BAE

It is the first defence contract for Southampton-based RIB-X, which makes bespoke RIBs with a portfolio across SOLAS, superyachts and leisure boats. The new contract, the company says, ‘highlights RIB-X International’s continued expansion into the defence sector’.

“This milestone marks a significant step forward, demonstrating the company’s growing capability and commitment to delivering high-quality, mission-ready vessels to meet the demanding standards of defence operations,” a statement said.

Further details of the vessels have not been released, although RIB-X says its vessels ‘are renowned for their performance, durability and versatility’, which makes them a good option for naval and defence operations.

“We are extremely proud to be nearing the successful completion of this defence contract with BAE Systems,” said director Richard Burlingham. “This achievement reflects the skill, dedication, and technical expertise of our team, and we look forward to continuing to support the UK’s defence and security sector with our world-class outfitting and manufacturing capabilities.”

BAE Systems is one of the world’s largest defence, aerospace and security companies, designing and supporting advanced military systems across naval, air, land and cyber domains. In the maritime sector, it builds complex platforms such as the Type 26 frigate and submarines, acting as a prime contractor that integrates equipment from specialist suppliers.

The contract with RIB-X International demonstrates how the supply chain works, and these boats are likely to support operations such as man-overboard recovery, search and rescue and general vessel support.

It is a major milestone for RIB-X. Securing work with a major defence firm signals that its products meet stringent military standards for quality and positions the company for further opportunities in defence and offshore markets.

Neither BAE Systems nor RIB-X would provide further comment.