Login
iscover
The global defence contractor has secured work to support the UK’s future air combat systems program.
To continue reading the rest of this article, please log in.
Create free account to get unlimited news articles and more!
QinetiQ UK has been awarded a £31 million (AU$55.5 million) contract to deliver specialised engineering support for the Future Combat Air Systems (FCAS) program.
As part of the three-year deal, the QinetiQ-led Aurora Engineering Delivery Partnership (EDP) has been tasked with providing technical support to FCAS and the Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) Catalyst delivery team — responsible for delivering the latest combat air capabilities to UK frontline commands.
EDP partners Atkins and BMT have also been tasked with supporting the program, along with a number of subcontractors in the EDP provider network.
According to the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD), the contract would support 45 jobs across Bristol, Boscombe Down, Farnborough, Malvern, Bath and Lincoln
“The Future Combat Air Systems program continues to make good progress, as demonstrated by this latest engineering contract,” Alex Chalk, Minister for Defence Procurement, said.
“I am delighted that highly skilled UK industry personnel will lend their support and expertise to the program, as we work together to deliver a next-generation fighter jet for the future.”
Richard Berthon, director future combat air, said the contract reflects a broader commitment to building ties with local industry.
“Their expertise will be vital to the program as we work at pace to deliver a next-generation combat air capability by 2035,” he said.
QinetiQ chief executive, UK defence, Nic Anderson, welcomed the opportunity to provide technical support to the “most complex acquisition programs”.
“Our work with Catalyst DT will help accelerate new ways of working using digital engineering methodologies in supporting the next generation of combat air platforms.” Anderson said.
“Work carried out by the Aurora Engineering Partnership led by QinetiQ will enable DE&S to deliver essential engineering strategies for future FCAS capabilities.
“The partnership will provide engineering support — initially focusing on human performance, safety and systems engineering disciplines.”
Future fighter jets to be supported by the program include Tempest, due to enter service in 2035 as part of a wider Future Combat Air System.
[Related: Team Resolute tapped for Royal Navy shipbuilding project ]
