Defence chief hails aircraft carrier deal

By Sylvia Pfeifer, Defence Industries Correspondent BAE Systems and VT Group have won the lion's share of the £3bn manufacturing -contract signed yesterday to build the UK's biggest ever aircraft carriers. The two flagship carriers will contribute about £3bn to the order book of the two companies, which this week signed a joint venture covering their shipbuilding -operations. Des Browne, the defence secretary, speaking at BAE's Govan yard on the River Clyde, called it a "historic day for everyone in defence". The contract, which was signed on board HMS Ark Royal, is expected to secure 10,000 UK jobs. The contract, said Mr Browne, "ensures that we will have a Royal Navy fit for the 21st century". The two carriers are being built by an industry alliance that also includes Babcock International and Thales UK. The BAE and VT... [read full story]