Babcock engineering supplier network takes shape as Assystem and Amentum join

Babcock’s new strategic engineering supplier network is taking shape after Assystem and Amentum confirmed appointments to a five-year framework spanning defence and critical infrastructure programmes.

The companies have joined Babcock International Group’s Engineering Services Framework, which covers nuclear, marine, aviation, land and mission systems in the UK and international markets.

Their appointments follow the selection of AtkinsRéalis, announced in May when Babcock revealed that it had established similar agreements with 10 strategic suppliers across its defence portfolio.

The framework is intended to give Babcock a simpler and more consistent way to bring specialist engineering expertise into its programmes. A centralised contracting arrangement will allow suppliers to support multiple projects and become involved earlier in planning future work.

Appointment to the framework does not represent a specific programme award or guarantee a particular volume of work. Instead, it establishes a route through which Babcock can draw upon additional expertise and capacity as requirements emerge.

Assystem joins Babcock engineering framework

Assystem’s appointment will give the company opportunities to support Babcock projects in the UK and overseas.

The company brings more than 60 years of experience in nuclear, defence and infrastructure programmes. Its capabilities include design, systems engineering, safety, project and programme management, digital transformation and support throughout the life of an asset.

Assystem said the agreement would strengthen its presence at key UK defence sites while building on existing work for Babcock, the Ministry of Defence and Rolls-Royce.

Simon Barber, managing director of Assystem UK, described the appointment as “a major step forward” in the two companies’ relationship.

“For Assystem, it is an opportunity to support programmes that are vital to national security, sovereign capability and the safe delivery of complex defence infrastructure,” he said.

Amentum brings submarine infrastructure experience

Amentum joined the framework one day after Assystem announced its appointment.

Its agreement builds on decades of support for Babcock at Devonport Royal Dockyard, HM Naval Base Clyde and Rosyth Royal Dockyard. The company expects the framework to enable continued and future support for UK defence and submarine programmes, as well as platforms and infrastructure across the other domains.

Amentum’s capabilities include architectural and multidisciplinary engineering design, safety case development, human factors, building information modelling and independent technical assessment.

Its previous work includes specialist technical validation for docks, berths and shiplifts used to maintain the Royal Navy’s Astute and Dreadnought-class submarines and the wider fleet.

Loren Jones, senior vice-president and head of Amentum’s Energy & Environment-International business, said the company was looking forward to supporting programmes “vital to the UK’s safety and security”.

Babcock said when it introduced the framework that closer relationships with a select group of suppliers would help it meet growing programme demand while bringing engineering expertise into projects more quickly.