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
Hexagon leaderboard
RIAT 2026 cancelled

Aerospace Defence Security Events

RIAT 2026 cancelled

22 May 2026

This year’s Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) will now not be taking place, cancelled due to issues regarding access to the event - at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire - amid concerns over conflict in the Middle East.

ADS appoints Andy Williams Director of ADS Scotland

Aerospace Defence Security Space

ADS appoints Andy Williams Director of ADS Scotland

22 May 2026

ADS, the trade association for the aerospace, defence, security and space industries, has announced the appointment of Andy Williams as Scotland Director.

King’s College London and Cranfield University propose merger

Aerospace Defence Security Space

King’s College London and Cranfield University propose merger

22 May 2026

King’s College London and Cranfield University have announced that the two universities have signed an agreement as the first step towards a merger, with the aim of bringing the two institutions together from August 2027, which will support UK national capability and resilience.

QinetiQ expands testing capacity at MoD Portland Bill

Defence

QinetiQ expands testing capacity at MoD Portland Bill

22 May 2026

QinetiQ has increased the capacity of its vessel testing facility with the addition of a new water tank that will enable larger uncrewed mine hunting vessels’ magnetic fields to be measured and lowered to counter underwater threats.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Hexagon boosts large-volume inspection productivity

Defence

Hexagon boosts large-volume inspection productivity

22 May 2026

Hexagon’s Portable Metrology Division has introduced a new wireless probe that adds contact measurement to its high-speed HYPERSCAN large-volume laser scanning system, improving productivity during alignment, inspection and reporting.

BAE Systems Bofors completes Aston Harald acquisition

Defence

BAE Systems Bofors completes Aston Harald acquisition

21 May 2026

BAE Systems Bofors, which signed a purchase agreement to acquire Swedish supplier of precision mechanics and advanced component machining for aerospace and defence products, Aston Harald Mekaniska Verkstad AB in February 2026, has now completed the acquisition.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
General Atomics LB