Babcock and Supacat signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with British defence SME Supacat, to collaborate on a proposed replacement for the outgoing British Army Land Rover as part of the Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV) competition. The MoU builds on our strong relationship, following the completion of the Jackal 3 programme earlier this month. Together with Supacat, we will draw on their experience from the successful programme to design and deliver a sovereign capability which is underpinned by a ‘Best of British’ supply chain for the British Army. Babcock have developed the General Logistics Vehicle (GLV) family for the LMV programme, using the proven Toyota Land Cruiser LC70 as its platform. The range includes practical and formidable Medium Wheelbase, Long Wheelbase and Utility variants. The MoU enables us to explore how, together, complementary skills can enhance the offering – and supports increased commitment to working with SMEs as part of SME Engagement Charter.
Louise Atkinson, Chief Executive of Babcock’s Land and Mission Systems sector, said: “The British Army needs a practical, safe and innovative light mobility vehicle that can deliver dependable capability wherever it is deployed. Our General Logistics Vehicle is built on a proven platform and combines operational effectiveness with affordability, supportability and a strong UK supply chain.
“We are delighted to continue our strategic partnership with Supacat. As two British companies with a shared commitment to supporting the UK’s defence and security, our solution will strengthen sovereign capability, sustain highly skilled jobs and reinforce the UK’s defence industrial base. Our collaboration on the Jackal 3 programme demonstrated the value of bringing together complementary expertise, and we look forward to building on that success as we develop a best-in-class Light Mobility Vehicle solution for the British Army.”
While it’s based on a Japanese platform, around 70% of the GLV’s value is delivered by UK industry. This includes vehicle design, all the specialist military components, and the final vehicle assembly. This makes the GLV arguably the most British vehicle in its class, supporting British industry and creating export potential. The GLV is not just good news for the soldier. A common platform means less spares need to be held, less training courses, and less support infrastructure. The GLV Digital Twin will further increase reliability and performance, whilst our experience across the Defence Lines of Development will help reduce the risks associated with introducing a new platform. Babcock has developed the GLV with the same design values of a British icon; off-road performance, reliability and maintainability. But the company have gone further, with modern performance, comfort and enhanced load capability. Babcock believe that the GLV will become a true friend to the soldier, help them achieve the mission, and, most importantly, get them home safe.
Phil Applegarth, Director, Head of Supacat, said: “Our relationship with Babcock has been enduring over several decades, notwithstanding the latest collaboration of the Jackal 3 programme which was a great example of how strong collaboration can play a huge part of supporting the Defence Industrial Strategy and maintaining a true sovereign industrial base. We are looking forward to supporting Babcock in the Light Mobility Vehicle Programme with our expertise in vehicle design and manufacturing.”
Babcock International Group plc is a British aerospace, defence and nuclear engineering services company based in London, England. It specialises in managing complex assets and infrastructure. Although the company has civil contracts, its main business is with public bodies, particularly the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence and Network Rail. The company has four operating sectors, with overseas operations based in Africa, North America, South America, Europe and Australasia. Babcock is listed on the London Stock Exchange, and is a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index.
