STS Defence Secures £12.96 Million Contract for Type 26 Frigates’ Advanced Communications Systems
08th December 2025The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded STS Defence a prestigious £12.96 million contract to produce and install Integrated UHF SATCOM and EFMTE 4.2 baseline communications equipment on the Royal Navy’s next batch of Type 26 frigates. The contract, which covers Ships 4 to 8, is a seven-and-a-half-year agreement that will run from November 2025 through to May 2033.
This significant milestone further solidifies our position as one of the few companies with the technical expertise and experience to meet the MoD’s rigorous standards. The integration of these advanced communications systems is essential for ensuring the operational effectiveness of the Type 26 frigates, and the bespoke design and accreditation process for the SATCOM system has taken several years to perfect.
The contract represents not only a critical advancement in the Royal Navy’s capabilities but also a major boost to the local economy, particularly in Gosport. We will expand our operations in the region, generating new jobs and supporting the growth of the UK’s defence sector. We are dedicated to creating meaningful social value by prioritising skill development, providing training opportunities, and supporting local employment. Our focus on driving economic growth and technological innovation in Gosport ensures that the Royal Navy will receive the very best communications systems for its next-generation warships.
Ben Stancliffe, Managing Director of STS Defence, expressed his pride in the award; “We’re thrilled to have been awarded this important contract by the Ministry of Defence. It’s a fantastic opportunity to continue supporting the Royal Navy’s Type 26 frigates with cutting-edge technology, while also contributing to job creation and skills development here in Gosport. We’re excited to make a meaningful impact in both the defence sector and our local community.”
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