The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced a significant £4 million contract with Colt Canada Corporation for the supply of essential spares and accessories for the C8 rifle, a key weapon used by the UK’s elite military forces. The deal, which was revealed on 19 February 2025, will ensure the continued readiness of these critical firearms.
What’s in the Contract?
The contract will cover C8 rifle components and maintenance for an initial two-year period, with the option to extend for a further three years, depending on operational needs. The C8 rifle is widely used by UK special forces and other specialist military units, making this a crucial agreement for maintaining the effectiveness of Britain’s elite forces.
The contract is set to begin on 8 August 2025 and will run through to 7 August 2027, with potential extensions based on evolving operational requirements. This arrangement ensures that these elite units will have the support and spare parts necessary to maintain their rifles in top condition during critical missions.
Why the Direct Award?
The MoD has confirmed that the contract will be awarded without a competitive tender process, citing technical reasons under Regulation 16(1)(a)(ii) of the Defence and Security Public Contracts Regulations (DSPCR) 2011. This exemption allows the government to streamline the procurement process when there are valid technical reasons for not issuing a tender notice. The MoD has confirmed this move is lawful under the specified regulation.
