Associated British Ports (ABP), the UK’s largest port operator, has announced a new strategic partnership with the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) aimed at enhancing the flexibility and resilience of the UK Armed Forces’ sea mounting capabilities.
Under this agreement, the MoD will have access to ABP’s network of ports across the United Kingdom for sea mounting operations (the loading and unloading of military equipment from vessels transporting materials worldwide) at no extra cost beyond the original contract for services at the Port of Marchwood.
Henrik L. Pedersen, CEO of Associated British Ports, commented: “As part of our strategic commitment to supporting the defence sector, ABP is proud to provide the MOD access to our network of ports across Britain for both national emergencies and routine business. By doing so, ABP is confident it will increase the resilience and capacity of the MOD’s sea mounting capability for the most demanding scenarios, whilst driving greater cost-effectiveness into routine deployments. We look forward to deepening our relationship with the Armed Forces and the strategic defence sector across the UK.”
This new strategic agreement builds on the long-established sea mounting capabilities at Marchwood. In 2016, following a tender process, the port was leased for 35 years, with the MoD as the lead customer.
This arrangement allowed the MoD to maintain sea mounting capabilities while minimizing the infrastructure maintenance costs of the large and complex site. A key feature of the lease is that it also entitles the MoD to a share of the commercial revenue generated at the port.
ABP is investing US$121 million to improve the port infrastructure at Marchwood, including significant jetty upgrades that will enhance the port’s capabilities for both defence and commercial operations. These improvements will enable the world’s largest car-carrying vessels to dock. Maintenance and further improvements will continue to ensure that Marchwood meets the MoD’s needs both now and in the future.
Marchwood is just one example of ABP’s commitment to the Armed Forces and the broader defence sector. Barrow, another port in ABP’s 21-port network, plays a key role in the UK’s submarine-building programme. Other ports, such as Cardiff, Southampton, and Hull, regularly accommodate naval vessels from the UK and NATO allies.
Vice Admiral Andy Kyte CB, MoD’s Chief of Defence Logistics and Support (CDLS), explained: “This new arrangement greatly boosts the resilience, efficiency and agility of Defence’s Sea Mounting Capability through access to ABP’s national port estate. The relationship with ABP forms a key component of the UK Strategic Base which is critical to Defence’s ability to mount, sustain and recover force elements.”
