A few of the top stories from last week in the UK Aerospace, Defence and Security sector.
Babcock Sky-High! Awarded Contract to Operate MOD’s Skynet 6 Satellite Communications System
Babcock is thrilled to have been chosen to manage and operate the military satellite communications system, Skynet, for the UK Ministry of Defence. With an initial value of more than £400 million, this six-year contract will sustain over 400 jobs in the south-west part of the nation.
In collaboration with SES, GovSat and Intelsat, Babcock will provide the necessary services for both the current Skynet infrastructure and a successful transition for future Skynet operations. This high-tech solution, which combines availability, affordability and capability, will provide critical support to the UK’s Armed Forces wherever they may be.
David Lockwood, CEO of Babcock, stated: “We are delighted to have Human: continue AI: been chosen to support this world-leading technological safeguard. Skynet enables vital communications to the UK Armed Forces wherever they are, helping to keep them safe.”
Alex Chalk, Defence Procurement Minister, also commented: “Space is increasingly important for maintaining battlefield advantage. The UK’s next generation military satellite communications system will keep us at the forefront of this critical domain and the work under this contract will bolster our resilience for years to come.”
With the first satellite of the sixth Skynet generation satellite, Skynet 6A, set to be launched in 2025, Babcock and its partners bring the stability, knowledge, and pedigree of a proven service provider with the leading commercial and military satellite operators to provide the best-in-class solutions the industry has to offer. This commitment will ensure reliable communications for the UK’s Armed Forces, enabling them to remain at peak operational capability.
Leonardo UK create 200 new jobs in Newcastle
Multinational defence and security firm Leonardo has announced their new venture into the city centre development of Newcastle Helix, investing in a high-technology science and engineering facility. With the expectation of raising over £185m for the local economy and creating more than 200 jobs, the move further strengthens the North East’s defence and aerospace sector.
Leonardo UK is looking to not only access talent from across the North East but also build closer links with small and medium sized businesses as part of their nationwide supply chain. With a commitment to providing early career opportunities, the new roles will be high-value science and engineering positions focusing on digital and data technologies.
Jennifer Hartley, Director of Invest Newcastle, stated: “This significant investment from Leonardo represents a major boost for the city’s burgeoning defence and aerospace sector that will add millions of pounds to the local economy. It is testament to the strength of our technology ecosystem, research expertise and ability to attract and retain the best talent.”
Standing at the heart of the Global Combat Air Programme and trusted for decades to protect the UK Government’s most sensitive information, Leonardo is providing an additional 300 apprentices, industrial placements and graduate scheme starters in 2023. These opportunities are a great way to maximise the impact of this investment for local communities.
Best known for its onshore production of UK military helicopters and the cutting-edge electronics on-board Royal Air Force aircraft, the company looks forward to further expanding with the new site in Newcastle and building closer relationships with local businesses. With being located alongside Newcastle University, the UK National Innovation Centre for Data and the Defence Science and Technology Laboratories, Leonardo is ideally situated to engage with and develop emergent digital and data technologies necessary to delivering the Ministry of Defence’s future vision.
UK Minister of State in the Department for Business and Trade, Lord Dominic Johnson, commented: “Leonardo’s decision to increase its stake in UK plc is another vital step to level up the region and country, further improving our attractiveness to overseas investors as we continue becoming a science and technology superpower.”
British Nuclear Submarine Begins Maiden Voyage
HMS Anson, the fifth vessel of the Astute Class nuclear-powered submarine series, has departed from the BAE Systems shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, and is now on its way to His Majesty’s Naval Base Clyde near Glasgow.
After carefully navigating the shipyard’s dock systems and passing Walney Island’s tip, the submarine will soon embark on sea trials before joining the operational fleet with the four other members of its class: HMS Astute, HMS Ambush, HMS Artful, and HMS Audacious.
Steve Timms, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Submarines business, expressed his pride in seeing HMS Anson begin its mission to protect the UK’s national security: “This is a truly national endeavour, and it is a tremendous moment for our company, our employees, the Barrow community, the whole submarine enterprise and our vast UK-wide supply chain.”
Equipped with up to 38 Spearfish Heavyweight Torpedoes and Block V Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles, capable of tackling targets at a range of up to 1,000 miles, HMS Anson will be a formidable defender of the UK’s interests at home and abroad. Powered by a Rolls-Royce nuclear reactor, the boat will remain operational for 25 years without needing to refuel.
Defence Secretary, Ben Wallace, remarked: “HMS Anson will play a vital role in defending the UK, providing a competitive edge for decades to come, and I am proud to see her make her journey up to her permanent home on the Clyde. Supporting tens of thousands of jobs across the UK, our Astute-Class submarines are a leading example of our commitment to defence manufacturing, continuing to boost British industry for decades to come.”
Upon arrival at the Clyde, HMS Anson will start its sea trials.
Thanks for taking the time to reach. Have a great week 8. Roll on the lighter evenings!
(Main photo Credit: MOD, Skynet, Babcock)