Email to UK DEFENCE EQUIPMENT SALES AUTHORITY

[Bruno]

SECRET

To: Whom ever it may concern / CEO OF Defence equipment sales authority Jamie
Subject: Acquisition of Aircraft Carrier and Naval Air Arm

I am writing on behalf of the Portuguese Government to formally request a budget allocation from the Defence Equipment Sales Authority for the acquisition of the Invincible-class aircraft carrier and the necessary naval air arm complement capabilities, the Harrier and Sea King. Our government recognises the critical importance of enhancing our naval capabilities to safeguard national security interests and fulfil international commitments effectively.

This acquisition of the Invincible-class aircraft carrier is extremely central to our long-term defense strategy. Its advanced capabilities will significantly bolster our naval force, reinforcing our ability to act proactively to emerging security challenges in our region.

We kindly request the Defence Equipment Sales Authority and by extension the British Government to provide us with a detailed budget proposal encompassing the cost of one Invincible-class aircraft carrier and its air complement.

We are committed to working closely with your team to ensure a smooth and transparent procurement process for both the aircraft carrier and the naval air arm. Your guidance and assistance in this matter are invaluable to us, and we trust that together, we can significantly enhance our national defense capabilities, not just at sea but also in the air.

We add that we view Britain and DESA, as one of our main arm suppliers alongside with having a extremely well maintained relationship.

I appreciate your attention to this important request and am available for further discussions at your earliest convenience. Please feel free to contact me if you require any additional information or clarification.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Portuguese Ministry of Defence
Jaime Gama, Minister of Defence

 

[Bruno]

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
Security Classification: SECRET

To: Jaime Gama, Minister of Defence Bruno
Cc:
Subject: Re: Acquisition of Aircraft Carrier and Naval Air Arm

Dear Minister Gama,

Thank you for contacting the Defence Equipment Sales Authority.

Unfortunately the DESA only looks to sell equipment that is either going out of service or is no longer operational within the British Armed Forces. With that said, we are no longer in a position to sell the Invincible-class Aircraft Carrier or assorted aircraft.

I believe Nexus Defence are in a favorable position with HM Government and can, under strict guidelines, sell the Harrier aircraft but this is on a case-by-case basis.

If you still seek to purchase them, I would suggest contacting Nexus to advise.

Kindest Regards,

Defence Equipment Sales Authority |

 

[Bruno]

SECRET

To: Whom ever it may concern / CEO OF Defence equipment sales authority Jamie
Subject: Acquisition of Aircraft Carrier and Naval Air Arm.

I understand your position, especially given the current climate, and states of affairs. We respect your decision making and we shall henceforth remove said request. We very much hope this as not tarnished our relationship, and may we continue to purchase from the UK defence industry.

On another note, since this aircraft cannot be sold for the time being, would it be possible to then purchase its predecessor, the Centaur Class with the HMS Hermes specification? Most specifically those that are the most modern. It would serve a great task by serving the Portuguese Navy, helping us be accustomed to such type of ship. Alongside its air wing which at its last day was composed of the 28 Sea Harriers and 9 Westland Sea Kings.

Since the last proposition is off the table, I believe this one would be more acceptable and we hope that it does receive at least some consideration, especially since we do wish to but form our most trusted partner currently in the world stage.

Thank you for your cooperation and patience.

Portuguese Ministry of Defence
Jaime Gama, Minister of Defence

 

[Bruno]

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
Security Classification: SECRET

To: Jaime Gama, Minister of Defence Bruno
Cc:
Subject: Re: Acquisition of Aircraft Carrier and Naval Air Arm

Dear Minister Gama,

I have discussed this internally within the Ministry of Defence and they have advised that they are open to discussing further equipment sales but would suggest this be done in person. It has been recommended that the Iberian Summit to be hosted by Portugal would be a prominent time to have a meeting to discuss Defence Procurement. The selling of a Centaur-class, something well out of service would require some consideration but discussions in person may open other avenues.

I believe we are still pending a date from yourselves regarding the Iberian Summit but if you would be happy to continue procurement discussions during that, then it may be the best option.

Kindest Regards,

Defence Equipment Sales Authority |