Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Defence

Babcock supports work returners

Babcock recently welcomed participants in the Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) to its Vehicle Engineering site in Walsall to showcase its products and services while demonstrating the variety of career opportunities it offers to people looking to return to work.



Image courtesy Babcock

The SWAP, which was developed in collaboration with the local Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Walsall Council and Walsall College, supports those in the local community interested in finding out more about roles in defence and gaining the qualifications, skills and experience that will support them with their return to employment.

Advertisement
ODU RT

During the two-week training programme, participants were provided with the opportunity to achieve a Level 1 Award in Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Awareness, Level 1 Award in Health and Safety, basic vehicle awareness and transferable employability skills with a focus on Babcock and defence.

Participants visiting Babcock's site in Walsall were given an overview of the critical role it plays in supporting UK defence and security before going on a tour of the facility which is home to our new General Logistics Vehicle family and Babcock's Civilian Armoured Vehicle, used in more than 60 locations around the world. During the tour participants had the opportunity to observe six demonstrations including electrical design, scanning and computer aided design and welding, gaining a great insight into our business.

The initiative forms part of Babcock's ongoing commitment to supporting local communities and represents the third programme of its type that it has been involved in, following similar programmes in Devonport.

Advertisement
ODU RT

Adam, a participant of the SWAP, said: “From my visit to Babcock it is evident that the staff are passionate and truly enjoy their work. The SWAP is a positive initiative and Babcock is doing a good thing supporting it.”

Gordon Reynolds, Babcock’s Transformation Director, added: “Babcock is committed to supporting the local community and providing employment opportunities for people looking for a fulfilling and rewarding career – and our partnership with the DWP, Walsall Council and Walsall College is a perfect example of this in action.”

Advertisement
General Atomics LB
Galvion introducing CORTEX EVO at SOF Week 2026

Defence Events

Galvion introducing CORTEX EVO at SOF Week 2026

14 May 2026

Galvion will showcase the continued evolution of its CORTEX architecture at SOF Week 2026 (18th-21st May), featuring the introduction of its CORTEX EVO system.

ISTEC collaborates with SiNAB on complex weapons systems

Defence

ISTEC collaborates with SiNAB on complex weapons systems

14 May 2026

Complex weapons integration specialist ISTEC Services Ltd, has signed a key collaboration agreement with Australian defence technology company SiNAB Pty Ltd.

British Army to receive 72 RCH 155s

Defence

British Army to receive 72 RCH 155s

14 May 2026

Seventy-two Remote Controlled Howitzers (RCH 155) will be procured under a nearly £1 billion contract, which includes initial training and in-service support, awarded by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) on behalf of the British Army to ARTEC GmbH, a joint venture between KNDS and Rheinmetall.

UK to contribute drones, jets and warship to Strait of Hormuz mission

Defence

UK to contribute drones, jets and warship to Strait of Hormuz mission

13 May 2026

Defence Secretary John Healey MP has outlined the UK contribution to the multinational Strait of Hormuz mission, with Britain deploying autonomous mine hunting equipment and cutting-edge counter drone systems, along with Typhoon jets and HMS Dragon, as part of a future defensive mission to secure freedom of navigation in the Strait.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Canada awards Avon Protection respiratory solutions contract

Defence

Canada awards Avon Protection respiratory solutions contract

13 May 2026

The Government of Canada has awarded Avon Protection a five-year contract for the MITR-M1 Half Mask, MITR-PF Compact Particulate Filter and accessories.

Chevrolet Silverado HD added to Team LionStrike

Defence

Chevrolet Silverado HD added to Team LionStrike's UK defence portfolio

13 May 2026

The strategic collaboration between BAE Systems, GM Defence and NP Aerospace - Team LionStrike - formed to develop light utility and tactical vehicle options for British Armed Forces, has added the Chevrolet Silverado HD to its UK defence offerings.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner