Fallon announces multimillion pound venture with Oman

Defence Secretary Michael Fallon has announced the development of a multi-million pound joint venture between the British defence company Babcock International and the Oman Drydock Company, which will secure jobs in the UK.

The agreement will provide vital engineering work and support the world’s naval vessels, including the UK’s new Queen Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carriers. It will also support the development of the Duqm Port complex. A permanent presence at Duqm will enable the UK to shape the development of the naval facility to support future carrier capability and wider British maritime needs in the area.

Fallon said: “This partnership will bring British engineering expertise to help develop Duqm as a strategic port for the Middle East on the Indian Ocean, benefiting the Royal Navy and others.

“It demonstrates how our long term commitment to the Middle East is promoting our security and prosperity. Last week’s attacks in Brussels were a reminder that all of us, the Gulf and Europe, must stand together to defeat ISIL and its ideology.”