Babcock has clinched a seven-year contract to change individual trade and technical training within the British Army’s armoured vehicle sector.
This partnership aims to redefine training methodologies and elevate combat proficiency across diverse field operations.
Babcock, a training solutions provider, emerged victorious in securing a £75m ($94.5m) contract to spearhead individual trade and technical training for the British Army’s armoured vehicle community. This agreement shows that Babcock will play a role in ensuring the operational readiness of British military personnel.
Scheduled to commence in April 2024, the seven-year contract is poised to usher in close combat training on tracked and wheeled armoured fighting vehicles (AFV). With a primary focus on enhancing proficiency in driving, maintenance, gunnery, and communications systems, Babcock’s training framework aims to empower Field Army and Defence users.
Operating under the auspices of the Armour Centre (ARMCEN), Babcock’s mandate encompasses the design, delivery, and support of training activities at key military installations such as Bovington and Lulworth. These facilities, known as Centers of Excellence, serve as the epicentres for honing the skills of AFV personnel destined for frontline duties.
Meanwhile, production is underway for 70 Jackal 3 High Mobility Transporter (HMT) vehicles for the British Army, with Babcock and Supacat handling the split 62/8, respectively. The Jackal 3, an upgraded variant, offers improved crew protection and increased load-carrying capacity, with plans to complete production by the summer of 2024.
The British Army currently has 431 of the Jackal 2 armoured multirole vehicles within its fleet, acquiring all 431 vehicles in 2009 from Babcock International, according to GlobalData’s “The UK Defense Market 2023-2028” report.
Beyond traditional training paradigms, Babcock’s remit encompasses technical and general equipment management, maintenance of the ARMCEN AFV fleet, and garrison support services. This approach shows the company’s commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the military ecosystem.
Commenting on the occasion, Jo Rayson, managing director of Babcock’s training business, emphasised the company’s dedication to supporting the British Army’s evolving training needs. “Our longstanding partnership with the British Army underscores our unwavering commitment to excellence in military training”.
Echoing Rayson’s sentiments, Colonel John Godfrey, Deputy Commander Combat Manoeuvre Centre, and Commander Bovington Garrison enthused: “Babcock’s unwavering dedication to excellence aligns seamlessly with our vision for the future of armoured warfare training,”
