Vosper Thornycroft “Preferred Bidder” For New Ship Contract

U.K. shipbuilder Vosper Thornycroft Holdings Plc has been selected as preferred bidder by the Ministry of Defense to supply two survey ships in a deal worth up to $150 million. "Our selection as preferred bidder is recognition of our expertise in the U.K. and overseas as a prime contractor," Chief Executive Martin Jay said in a statement. The 90-m vessels are due for delivery in 2002 and Vosper anticipates signing the contract by early summer. The deal was expected to include a 25-year support package for the vessels.