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8275435 
Journal Article 
Two groups vie for UK supply chain overhaul 
Kemp, D 
2004 
FEB. 
English 
Two consortia have been shortlisted for the UK Ministry of Defence's Future Defence Supply Chain initiative (FDSCi), which plans to overhaul the UK's supply logistics, maintenance capability and reduce operating costs by more than £30 million ($56 million). Defence Logistics Solutions, a consortium led by BAE Systems with RollsRoyce, Westland Helicopters, Alvis Vickers, TNT and FSL; and Defence Supply Chain Solutions, comprising Devonport Management and United Parcel Supply Chain Solutions, were selected from responses placed in October 2003. The selections come despite opposition from trade unions claiming that privatisation was too risky and workers would lose jobs (JDW 25 June 2003). FDSCi focuses solely on distribution and supply within the UK and follows an admission by Secretary of Defence Geoff Hoon that a major overhaul of logistics holdings was required in the wake of Operation 'Telic', the UK's role in Operation 'Iraqi Freedom' (JDW 11 February). FDSCi team leader Arthur Fisher said the contract could be worth up to £200 million annually. © 2005 Jane's Information Group. All rights reserved.