The UK is preparing to launch a major long-term procurement programme for military tactical communications, with plans for a framework valued at up to £8 billion excluding VAT, according to a newly updated government pipeline notice.
The notice, published on 11 December, sets out the intention to establish a framework agreement under reference RM6393 to provide specialised military-grade tactical communication and information systems. The framework is expected to run for eight years, from June 2026 to June 2034, and support the needs of UK defence and wider security users.
According to the notice, the requirement will cover “specialised military grade tactical communication and information systems, including hardware, software and associated design and implementation and support services”. The systems are intended for use in active battlefield environments, where secure and reliable communications are critical to real-time operational decision-making.
The scope of the proposed framework is broad. It states that the systems will be “deployed in active battlefield environments for critical real-time operational tactical communications” and may also have “potential cross-government Defence and Security sectoral applications”. This suggests that, in addition to the Armed Forces, other government departments with security or operational responsibilities could draw on the framework.
The new arrangement is expected to build on existing procurement under Lot 1c of the RM6116 Network Services 3 agreement, but with a stronger focus on integrated solutions. Unlike previous frameworks, the planned model places greater emphasis on end-to-end delivery, including system design, implementation, software provision and ongoing support.
In commercial terms, the programme represents one of the largest communications-related procurements currently signalled by the UK government. The estimated value is listed as £8 billion excluding VAT, rising to £9.6 billion including VAT, although pipeline notices do not guarantee that the full value will ultimately be spent.
The procurement is expected to be delivered through a framework agreement rather than a single contract, allowing multiple suppliers to be appointed. This approach would enable defence and security customers to complete specific requirements over time, rather than relying on a single provider, and reflects a growing emphasis on flexibility and lifecycle support.
The main category for the procurement is listed as services, highlighting the focus on integration, sustainment and long-term system management rather than standalone equipment purchases.
While the notice does not identify specific programmes or platforms, it provides early visibility to industry ahead of a formal competition. The estimated publication date for the tender notice is 7 January 2026, indicating that procurement activity could begin shortly after the start of the next calendar year.
Pipeline notices are used to signal potential future procurement activity and do not commit the government to proceed exactly as outlined.
