The UK military has awarded Lancashire-based Northern Diver International a 24.4 million pound ($33.1 million) contract to supply diving equipment to enhance the underwater capabilities of the country’s armed forces.
As part of the agreement, the company will provide the British military with diving apparel, specialist equipment, and voice communication systems that can be used up to a depth of 30 meters (98 feet) underwater.
The contract will also provide the Royal Navy with scuba sets, wet and dry dive suits, flashlights, knives, watches, and float lines.
Northern Diver International will also be tasked with managing the reliability, safety, and availability of the diving equipment while facilitating personnel training and performing equipment maintenance.
Multiple requirements will be consolidated under the contract, with the option of a two-year extension.
Capability Enhancement
Northern Diver Managing Director Melanie Simm explained that the company has invested heavily in the research and development of state-of-the-art diving equipment over the last three years to prepare for multimillion-dollar agreements with armed forces worldwide.
She also noted that the firm has worked hard to ensure that it can provide improved staff training for the use of its equipment.
“We are pleased to have won the contract and very proud to supply the Royal Navy and we look forward to building on our partnership further going forward,” Simm said.
Salvage and Marine Operations Head Andy Liddell expressed his enthusiasm concerning the upcoming collaboration between the UK military and Northern Diver International.
He stated that the partnership would further support the British defense industry and deliver significant capability enhancements for the Royal Navy.