§ Laura MoffattTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the procurement strategy is for BOWMAN. [132877]
§ Mr. HoonBOWMAN aims to provide a tactical combat radio communications system to replace Clansman, which as been in service since the mid-70s.
To deliver this project, we have been working with Archer Communication Systems Ltd. (ACSL), as our preferred supplier. ACSL has improved in recent months, but we have concluded that their proposal (submitted to us on 23 June) would not represent best value for money. We have, therefore, decided to hold a competition to meet the BOWMAN requirement. Through competition, we shall seek to achieve the best combination of performance, cost and timely delivery into service. The competition will offer substantial opportunities for participation for UK industry.