The UK and Indonesia have agreed a landmark £4 billion maritime deal securing jobs in the UK in the latest boost for the British industry.
Set to be announced by the British Prime Minister during a call to President Prabowo Subianto from the G20 Summit November 22, the new Maritime Partnership Program (MPP) led by British defense firm Babcock, will see the UK and Indonesia jointly develop maritime capability for Indonesia’s navy and more than 1,000 vessels for its fishing fleets to boost seafood consumption and in turn, food security.
The boats will be built in Indonesia using British shipbuilding expertise, which may support 1000 jobs at home in the UK. The majority of jobs are expected to be secured at Babcock’s Rosyth shipyard, with further roles at the company’s Bristol site and Devonport dockyard.
In Indonesia, the program will unlock major investment in local shipbuilding, revitalize fishing communities, enhance Indonesia’s defense and maritime security, and boost food security – one of President Prabowo’s top priorities. It will deliver on Indonesia’s ambition to grow food production responsibly while safeguarding its unparalleled marine biodiversity.