Royal Navy industry engagement: Mine Hunting Capability programme update – 6 Feb 23.

On Monday 6th February 2023, the Royal Navy, in collaboration with Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) will host a Mine Hunting Capability (MHC) webinar between 11:00am and 1:00pm. The aim of this event is to engage with industry to provide an update on MOD’s thinking regarding the next phase (Block 2) of the Royal Navy’s successful MHC Block 1 programme, and the opportunity landscape in Block 2 for potential suppliers. Industry feedback from this event and subsequent engagements will also be used to shape and refine MHC programme plans and procurement strategy.

Attendees will gain an understanding of the RN’s requirements for mine countermeasures and their strategic context, the progress achieved across MHC Block 1 (leading to planned deployment) and in the accompanying Operational Evaluation, and the plans for development, fielding and scaling in Block 2. There will also be early visibility of the plan to establish a new Maritime Autonomous Systems Centre of Expertise (MASCoE), anchored in DE&S Ships, but operating across MOD, and its role in enabling programmes such as MHC.

Building on earlier engagements as part of Block 1 of the programme, it is anticipated that this will be the first in a number of events over the coming months and years. The event will facilitate information sharing and discussion at the Official level only and there are no nationality requirements for the webinar.

There will be no charge for attendance at the webinar and capacity is not limited; The Royal Navy and DE&S are keen to see representation from across Defence and from those in adjacent sectors operating in the underwater environment, including those entirely new to Defence. Registration will close at midday 1st February 2023.

For the avoidance of doubt, this is an information opportunity only. Neither the presentation nor discussions constitute any form of commitment and will not act as any form of pre-qualification exercise. Any formal procurement process will – if pursued – be undertaken in accordance with MoD procurement policy and procedures and the relevant Procurement Regulations. Nothing in the event or any other engagements with Industry prior to a formal procurement process, shall be construed as a representation as to the Authority’s ultimate decision in relation to any future requirement.

Registration can be completed via this form. If you have any questions about the event, please contact [email protected]. Please do not contact individual RN or DE&S personnel directly about the event.