The Ministry of Defence (MOD) announced that it plans to spend £12.5 million for the procurement of four additional Fresh Water Cooling Heat Exchanger (HEATEX) units to be installed on British submarines as part of a focus on enhancing the operational readiness and safety of its nuclear-powered fleet, UK Defence Journal reports.
This latest purchase follows the MOD’s ongoing efforts to maintain and upgrade critical systems within its submarines, ensuring they meet the highest standards of performance.
The contract, which was awarded to Naval Group Limited, the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) of these bespoke units, is set to supply four HEATEX units designed specifically for use in the UK’s nuclear-powered submarines.
“Naval Group is the only entity with the necessary technical drawings, specialist tooling, knowledge, and experience to supply these replacement units,” the MOD stated in a Voluntary Ex-Ante Transparency (VEAT) notice published on 3 January 2025. “These units will be manufactured to an improved specification, reinforcing the MOD’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational readiness.”
This contract follows a similar one awarded in March 2024 for two Fresh Water Cooling Heat Exchangers for ASTUTE-class submarines, with the MOD continuing its investment in submarine safety systems. HEATEX units are vital to the nuclear safety function of the submarines, with their ability to provide essential cooling to critical systems.
The direct award to Naval Group is justified under the Defence and Security Public Contracts Regulations 2011 due to the firm’s unique ability to produce these specialized units, which are essential for the safe operation of the UK’s nuclear-powered submarines. The MOD has also outlined that the contract does not require prior publication of a contract notice, in line with relevant regulations specific to defence contracts.
