UK Defence News Round-up: Week 6

Serco Wins Landmark MOD Recruitment Contract

Serco has been selected to deliver the UK Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) next-generation Armed Forces Recruitment Service (AFRS), marking the first time recruitment for the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, and Strategic Command will be unified under one system. The seven-year contract, with options for three additional one-year extensions, includes a 21-month mobilisation period starting in April 2025, with full service expected by early 2027.?

Mark Irwin, Serco Group Chief Executive, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, “We are honoured to support the MOD in recruiting and retaining the personnel needed to defend the nation. This contract builds on our 60-year relationship with the MOD, and we are committed to delivering a modern, efficient recruitment solution.” The AFRS will streamline the recruitment process, from candidate attraction to assessment, enlistment, and onboarding, using advanced technology to enhance the candidate experience.?

Serco will lead a consortium of delivery partners, including Pegasystems, Adecco, Akkodis, TMP, Optima Health, PA Consulting, and MPCT. Pegasystems will provide intelligent automation for recruitment processes, while Adecco and Akkodis bring global workforce solutions and digital expertise. TMP will lead recruitment marketing, Optima Health will handle medical assessments, PA Consulting will drive innovation, and MPCT will support vocational training for candidates.?

The new service will modernise recruitment by integrating best-in-class technology and managing all Armed Forces Career Offices across the UK. A blended workforce, including military personnel, will ensure the system meets the needs of both candidates and the MOD. The solution aims to address current recruitment challenges, improve efficiency, and attract a diverse pool of talent.?

This landmark contract underscores Serco’s role as a trusted partner to the UK government and its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces. By leveraging the expertise of its partners, Serco aims to deliver a transformative recruitment service that ensures the UK military remains equipped with skilled and motivated personnel for years to come.

MoD Awards ￡26M Parachute Contract to IrvinGQ

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced a direct award of a new single-source contract to IrvinGQ Limited for parachute packing and maintenance services. The contract, valued at up to ￡26 million, ensures the continued reliability and safety of parachute systems used by the British Armed Forces. This agreement underscores the MoD’s commitment to maintaining high standards in critical defence equipment.?

IrvinGQ, a leading provider of life-saving equipment and parachute systems, will deliver essential services to support military operations, training, and emergency response. The contract covers the packing, maintenance, and inspection of parachutes, ensuring they meet stringent safety and operational requirements. This work is vital for the effectiveness of airborne operations and the safety of military personnel.?

The direct award reflects the MoD’s confidence in IrvinGQ’s expertise and long-standing relationship with the UK Armed Forces. The company has a proven track record in delivering high-quality parachute systems and services, making it a trusted partner for this critical capability. The contract also highlights the importance of maintaining domestic expertise in defence supply chains.?

This agreement ensures that the British military has access to reliable and well-maintained parachute systems, supporting a wide range of operations, from tactical deployments to humanitarian missions. The contract will also sustain jobs and skills within the UK defence industry, contributing to national security and economic resilience.?

The MoD’s investment in parachute services through this contract demonstrates its focus on operational readiness and the safety of its personnel. By partnering with IrvinGQ, the MoD ensures that its parachute systems remain world-class, enabling the Armed Forces to perform their duties effectively in any environment.

EnSilica, Excelerate Win ￡16M for Satellite Tech

The UK Space Agency has announced ￡16 million in funding for two innovative projects aimed at advancing satellite communications and positioning the UK as a global leader in the field. The funding, part of the Connectivity in Low Earth Orbit (C-LEO) programme, will support the development of technologies to improve the efficiency and capability of satellite mega-constellations. This initiative is part of a broader ￡160 million investment over the next four years to strengthen the UK’s expertise in satellite communications.?

Satellite constellations are transforming global connectivity by providing high-speed internet access to remote and underserved areas, bridging the digital divide. These constellations are set to revolutionise markets such as maritime and aviation connectivity, enabling seamless communication in even the most remote locations. Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant emphasised the UK’s cutting-edge expertise, stating that these projects will enhance mobile communication and connect hard-to-reach communities.?

Oxfordshire-based EnSilica plc will receive ￡10.38 million to develop novel silicon chips and software for a user terminal compatible with UK and European constellations like OneWeb Next Generation. Meanwhile, Cardiff’s Excelerate Technology Ltd has been awarded ￡6 million to create the Mobility and Autonomy Market User Terminal (MAMUT), a flexible system that allows users to switch operators and orbits via an app, reducing costs and improving global configurability.?

The UK’s space sector, with its strong heritage in satellite design and constellation operations, is well-positioned to capitalise on the growing demand for satellite constellations. With over 2,900 satellites launched in 2023 and an estimated 18,000 more expected by 2031, the UK aims to secure high-value contracts in the global supply chain and lead the satellite communication sector’s long-term growth.?

The funding announcement comes ahead of the UK Space Agency’s Ignite Space Conference in Leicester, which will highlight opportunities for SMEs in the space industry. As a founding member of the European Space Agency (ESA), the UK continues to play a pivotal role in advancing space technology, with further ESA-funded projects expected in the coming months. This investment underscores the UK’s commitment to maintaining its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving global space sector.

Clogworks, GeoCue Partner to Boost Aerial LiDAR

Clogworks has announced a strategic partnership with GeoCue, a global leader in LiDAR acquisition and data processing solutions. This collaboration combines GeoCue’s TrueView LiDAR systems and LP360 software with Clogworks’ Dark Matter range of multi-rotor UAVs, offering a highly efficient mapping and surveying solution for professionals worldwide. The integration of GeoCue’s TV535 LiDAR sensor with Clogworks’ drones enables flight times of up to 48 minutes, enhancing operational efficiency.?

The partnership allows Clogworks to integrate a wide range of TrueView LiDAR systems into its Dark Matter UAV platforms, including the hX Gen 2 and qD Gen 2 models. Clients will benefit from an end-to-end solution that includes advanced LiDAR scanning and LP360 software for rapid data processing and in-depth analytics. This combination ensures accurate data capture and streamlines workflows for surveying, engineering, and geospatial applications.?

Laurence Opdam, Director of Clogworks, highlighted the collaboration’s success on UK projects and praised GeoCue’s transparent pricing and technical expertise. “This partnership enables us to meet the growing demand for non-Chinese drone and LiDAR integrations globally,” he said. The alliance positions Clogworks to deliver high-quality, fully integrated solutions to customers worldwide.?

Vincent Legrand, Vice President of Global Sales at GeoCue, commended Clogworks’ innovation and expertise in UAV design. “Integrating our TrueView 535 sensor with their Dark Matter drones opens exciting possibilities for high-precision LiDAR solutions,” he said. The partnership has already demonstrated impressive field performance, offering surveyors, government agencies, and research institutions a reliable all-in-one solution.?

Both companies are committed to ongoing research and development, ensuring they remain at the forefront of geospatial technology. This partnership strengthens their ability to provide cutting-edge tools for professional operators, driving innovation in aerial mapping and surveying industries.

METCLOUD Expands in Birmingham, Creates 100 Jobs

Multi-award-winning sovereign cloud and cybersecurity provider METCLOUD is expanding its presence in Birmingham, with plans to create up to 100 skilled jobs. The company has taken over the entire fifth floor of Lyndon House, reinforcing its position as a leader in digital transformation, AI, and cybersecurity innovation. This growth follows a series of major contract wins and strategic partnerships, enabling METCLOUD to strengthen its presence in key sectors such as defence, critical national infrastructure, government, health, finance, and insurance.?

One of METCLOUD’s recent successes includes a contract with NMS UK, a specialist defence manufacturer. METCLOUD will provide secure sovereign cloud solutions to support NMS UK’s new facility in Leamington Spa, which focuses on manufacturing protected patrol vehicles for the UK defence industry and international export. The partnership ensures compliance with stringent defence regulations, safeguarding sensitive data and enhancing operational efficiency.?

METCLOUD has also formed strategic alliances, including a collaboration with Birmingham-based CyberQ Group. This partnership combines CyberQ’s expertise in threat detection and response with METCLOUD’s secure cloud services, creating a robust cyber defence ecosystem tailored for modern digital infrastructures. These collaborations highlight METCLOUD’s commitment to empowering businesses in the fight against cybercrime.?

The expansion has been supported by the West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC), which provided sector-focused consultancy and PR assistance. Additionally, METCLOUD participated in London & Partners’ Grow Global programme, gaining expert guidance and access to international trade missions to shape its global growth strategy. These initiatives have helped METCLOUD raise its profile and explore new opportunities.?

Ian Vickers, CEO of METCLOUD, emphasised the company’s commitment to Birmingham and the West Midlands, citing the region’s thriving tech sector and access to specialist talent. Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, praised the investment, highlighting its contribution to the region’s digital economy and cybersecurity resilience. METCLOUD’s expansion marks a significant step in its mission to drive innovation and security in the digital age.

Thanks for taking the time to read. Have a great week!