Babcock and Supacat Launch Production on Jackal 3 for British Army

Defense News ,UK :- An advanced manufacturing facility at Babcock's Devonport site is dedicated to producing cutting-edge HMT Jackal 3 vehicles, with a total of 70 units planned for completion by the summer of 2024. This project, aligned with the UK's Land Industrial Strategy, involves collaboration between Babcock, Supacat, the British Army, and the Ministry of Defence's (MOD) Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) team to ensure operational and safety requirements are fully met.

Named 'The Raglan Building' in homage to nearby Raglan Barracks, the facility integrates transformative innovation and technology, including bespoke 'Pulse' software, optimizing efficiency during vehicle assembly. Located in the South Devon Freeport, the facility is future-proofed, poised for subsequent build programs, and expected to contribute to the region's economic potential for years to come.

The Jackal 3, benefiting from over a decade of Supacat's development, boasts enhancements supporting operational needs, improved crew protection, and increased gross vehicle mass for superior load carrying. With a new suspension system, it promises enhanced off-road performance and the flexibility to transform into a 6-wheel drive vehicle, doubling its load carrying capacity.

This program significantly contributes to the South West's economic growth, with nearly all supply chain components sourced in the UK, 50 percent from the region. Over 100 new jobs have been created through a dedicated social value plan, emphasizing skills development and enhancing the workforce's capabilities.

Major General Darren Crook CBE, Director for the Land Equipment Operating Centre at DE&S, underscores the project's significance in developing key land defense engineering skills. Babcock's CEO, David Lockwood, emphasizes the importance of delivering the HMT Jackal 3 vehicle in ensuring the UK's safety amid global instability. Supacat's CEO, Nick Ames, expresses pride in providing the British Army with a battle-proven platform and highlights the collaboration with Babcock, emphasizing continued commitment to delivering world-class products.