David Brown has been awarded one of the first design contracts for key elements of the U.K. Royal Navy’s Type 26 Global Combat Ship by BAE Systems. Under the Design Development Agreement (DDA) David Brown will create detailed designs and progress plans for the gearbox of the Type 26 Global Combat Ship, while working in partnership with the joint BAE Systems and Ministry of Defense project team.

The Type 26 Global Combat Ship will replace and enhance the capabilities presently being delivered by the Type 23 Frigates in the Royal Navy’s current fleet. Geoff Searle, Type 26 global combat ship project director for BAE Systems said: “The ship design and program has progressed so well, that we are now at a stage where we are able to work very closely with our suppliers to identify the best quality products and technology for the ship that are already proven and ensure the highest level of service and capability.”

Steve Watson, managing director Europe at David Brown said: “This is great news for David Brown. We have a strong track record in mission-critical gearing and we’ve worked hard to remain at the very forefront of technological innovation - maintaining our capability and expertise to support the U.K. defense sector from our U.K. headquarters in Huddersfield."

Jason McCartney, member of parliament for Colne Valley, said: “I am delighted that David Brown has been awarded this contract. They are a world-class engineering firm that makes a huge economic and social contribution to Colne Valley and Huddersfield, employing a lot of people and running a fantastic apprenticeship scheme. Following a week of positive economic news for our country it’s great to see that local companies and people are set to reap the benefits. This contract is a welcome reminder that things are getting better for our part of Yorkshire.”