British aerospace company BAE Systems has won a substantial fighter-jet contract with the Sultanate of Oman. We answer five questions on BAE’s Oman contract.
What is the contract for?
Europe’s largest defence contractor BAE Systems has signed a contract with the Sultanate of Oman to supply 12 Typhoon fighter jets and eight Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer aircraft, as well as in-service support. Manufacturing will begin in 2014 with delivery expected in 2017.
How much is the contract worth?
The contract is worth a staggering £2.5 billion.
What does this contract mean in the long term for BAE Systems?
Earlier in the year BAE Systems seemed to be struggling after it failed to close a merger deal with European defence company EADS. Other blows to the company include the US defense budget, where it derives 40 per cent of its earnings, being cut by $600bn (£369bn) and this week the news that it’s contract with Saudi Arabia for 72 Typhoon fighters has been delayed because of disagreements over the final contract price.
This latest deal will provide a much needed boost to the company and help safeguard 6,000 high-technology and engineering jobs across sites at Warton and Samlesbury in Lancashire, and at Brough in East Yorkshire.
What has BAE Systems said about the deal?
BAE said in statement: “This contract is further recognition that both Typhoon and Hawk are leading aircraft in their class.”
What are other people saying about the contract?
According to the BBC Prime Minister David Cameron welcomed the deal, saying:
“It’s testament to Britain’s leading aerospace industry and the deal will safeguard thousands of jobs across the UK, not just at the BAE Systems factories in Lancashire and East Riding in Yorkshire, but at many more small businesses up and down the country that play a vital role in delivering these aircraft.”
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