Defence Online

Serco wins contract to support British Army’s marine assets fleet

Maritime March 26, 2026

Serco, the international provider of critical government services, has been awarded a seven-year contract to provide in-service support for the British Army’s fleet of 512 marine vessels.

The Army’s fleet delivers troops, transport equipment and supplies on ship to shore deployments in a range of conditions and Serco will support the Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) Boats Team with maintenance, repair, spares, trials and other associated technical services. Serco’s contract will begin in April 2026, with work carried out at sites in the South of England.

More than 140 Mexeflotes, used as landing crafts, causeways or pontoons and for transporting vehicles and equipment to shore, will be maintained through the contract. A fleet of 18 Combat Support Boats, which have a major role in bridging, amphibious and diving operations and several Army Workboats, which enable fuel to be provided to a deployed force via fuel dracones, will also be included.

In addition to these primary classes, a range of other vessels including lightweight army assault boats and other rapidly deployable vessels will be maintained.

Anthony Kirby, Serco Group plc Chief Executive Officer said: “We are proud to be supporting this specialised fleet of marine assets, which are vital for operational and strategic effectiveness and personnel deployments on coastal or near-shore environments on behalf of the British Army and the Ministry of Defence’s Boats Team.

“Military preparedness is a key priority and our success in securing this contract reflects the strength of our expertise and capabilities in defence engineering and asset management and builds on our recent strong momentum in the defence maritime sector.”

Boats and crafts included are:

• Mexeflotes – large logistics craft used to transport vehicles and equipment
• Combat Support Boats – powerful ships used in both bridging and amphibious operations
• Army Work Boats – enable the provision of fuel to a deployed force
• Gemini 650s – durable, rigid inflatable boats
• Hard Hull Riverine Craft – designed to perform fast, shallow-water operations.
• Army Assault Boats – lightweight vessels, used for shallow waters and covert sorties
• Avon Redcrests – rapidly deployable inflatable vessels.

Image: Crown copyright 2025

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Post written by: Vicky Maggiani

Vicky has worked in media for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.