Chemring Group subsidiary Roke has won a six-year science and technology oriented research and development in missile defence (STORM) framework contract, valued at £251m ($324.99m).
The multi-year contract takes effect immediately and comes with an option to extend it for three years.
It covers a wide range of missile defence activities and capabilities. Collaborating closely with the UK Missile Defence Centre (UK MDC), Roke will spearhead a domestic industry collaborative effort aimed at protecting the UK and its allies against existing and emerging threats, including ballistic and hypersonic missiles.
Through this agreement, Roke will bolster its position as a key partner to the UK MDC within the nation’s missile defence infrastructure.
As the primary contractor, Roke will directly deliver components of the contract while also overseeing industry partners responsible for executing most of the contract’s value.
The STORM framework contract will be predominantly executed by a UK-based workforce, with more than 95% of its value being delivered domestically.
This approach is essential for fostering and maintaining a sovereign UK capability and suitably qualified and experienced personnel (SQEP) within the field of missile defence research and development.
Under the STORM initiative, Roke’s contributions are set to shape pivotal defence strategies and guide governmental resolutions within the UK.
The company’s efforts are also instrumental in furthering the development of advanced missile defence technologies.
During a meeting in central London, UK Defence Secretary John Healey addressed venture capital firms during a breakfast roundtable.
He outlined the government’s defence spending strategy, which includes the most substantial rise since the Cold War era, targeting 2.5% of GDP by April 2027 and aiming for 3% in the subsequent Parliament session.
Healey highlighted how these financial commitments, along with defence reforms, could catalyse private investment into growing UK companies. This move is expected to stimulate job creation and align with the Government’s Plan for Change, positioning defence as a key driver of economic expansion throughout the nation.
Roke defence business unit director Chris Squier said: “Our role in leading the STORM framework builds upon the framework management capabilities demonstrated in our role as lead for SERAPIS Lot 1, and will leverage the decades of heritage we have in helping customers solve complex problems, particularly in sensing and decision making.
“STORM is yet another case of a customer valuing the way we work; the skills we can bring to bear against their problems; and trusting us to operate as their long-term partner to deliver.”
Previously, the company worked with the UK MDC on the HYPERION project.
