British SME Force Development Services (FDS) announced at CNE 2026 it is teaming up with defence prime BAE Systems to work on developing modular defence systems for naval and uncrewed platforms.
Last week on the first day of Navy Leaders’ Combined Naval Event conference — the largest annual naval show in Europe — the two firms signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
As per FDS: “The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation in several key strategic areas aimed at accelerating innovation, enhancing operational flexibility, and strengthening through-life supportability across future defence programmes.”
Specifically, the two companies will be collaborating on future platforms and on NavyPODS (Navy Persistent Operational Deployment Systems): interchangeable, platform-agnostic mission modules to rapidly upgrade or change a warship’s capabilities.
FDS Managing Director Claire Hemmings commented: “This MoU marks an important step in our strategic relationship with BAE Systems.
“By combining modular PODS capability development with rapid innovation and deep operational insight, we aim to support the delivery of adaptable and mission-ready solutions for future maritime and uncrewed defence platforms.”
- You can read more details on the FDS website