A recently signed agreement between Bermuda’s Ministry of National Security and the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) will deliver efficiencies, savings and improved quality control during the procurement of kit and equipment for the Royal Bermuda Regiment (RBR).
The Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement (MLSA) will allow the RBR to purchase directly from the MOD and its authorised vendors instead of through brokers or on the open market.
Provisions such as food, clothing and communication equipment are covered in the agreement, as well as transportation, medical kit, spare parts and maintenance services.
RBR Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Duncan Simons explained: “This agreement enables a pathway for the Regiment to procure items through the Ministry of Defence procurement channels.
“What that means is that we can get equipment of an approved standard at the lowest cost possible rather than working through brokers or purchasing equipment and clothing on the open market.
“It reduces cost, increases quality control and saves a great deal of time and effort.”
The Regiment had for some time recognised challenges related to procurement, owing to its position as a stand-alone unit in terms of day-to-day operations, despite falling under the British Army’s order of battle from a ceremonial perspective.
It was during discussions with British Defence Staff (Washington, DC) – through which the MOD is represented in the United States – that it was determined an MLSA would be an appropriate means to address the issue.
Lt Col Simons noted the efforts of Major Thomas Wood, the RBR’s Second-in-Command and Executive Officer, who played a key role in establishing the arrangement.
The Commanding Officer added: “We’ve settled on a fairly straightforward document that represents a demonstration of the UK’s support to the Regiment and defence in Bermuda.”
His Excellency the Governor Andrew Murdoch CMG, the RBR’s Commander-in-Chief, said: “I’m delighted that this important agreement has been finalised. It will provide an excellent mechanism to use the strength of the UK Armed Forces’ supply chain to help Bermuda.
“My thanks to all those involved in its drafting. It is so good that other Overseas Territories are looking to use it as a template for their military contingents.”
A spokesman for the Ministry of National Security added: “The Ministry of National Security is extremely pleased that this agreement has been reached as it represents significant benefits for the Royal Bermuda Regiment in particular, and Bermuda in general.
“We wholeheartedly support this collaboration and we commend Lt Col Duncan Simons for his work in bringing this to fruition.
- For information on joining the Royal Bermuda Regiment, visit rbr.bm, call 238-1045 or contact the Recruiting Team at rbr.recruiting@gov.bm.