Swindon & Wiltshire News
Ukrainian military could 3D print spare parts under new deal with West firm
The Ukrainian military could soon be able to 3D print spare parts for military equipment under an MoD initiative.
The initiative would allow Ukrainian engineers – trained by British experts – to repair vehicles like the Challenger 2 tank (pictured) on or near the front line, without having to wait for hardware to be delivered from the UK.
A proof-of-concept contract has been awarded by the UK Ministry of Defence to defence contractor Babcock, which manages the vehicle supply chain and spares and has facilities across the South West region.
Babcock, as prime contractor, will work with UK defence technology company QinetiQ to create digital drawings and Computer Aided Design files of military equipment which then can be used to print parts on demand and where they are needed.
Tom Newman, CEO of Babcock’s land sector, said: “We aim to give Ukraine the capability to recreate the military parts that they need, where and when it really matters.
“This innovation builds on our engineering expertise and technology capability, giving us further opportunities to optimise 3D printing.”
Alan Hart, managing director of science, technology and weapons for QinetiQ, which has a major base at Boscombe Down near Salisbury, said: “We are delighted to be working with Babcock to support Ukraine, and are immensely proud that QinetiQ is able to draw on our world-leading expertise in technical assurance to assist.
“This latest contract demonstrates QinetiQ’s unequalled expertise in material capability assurance, and commitment to support to the frontline, whether our own or those of our allies.”
Babcock has multiple locations in Bristol, where its Submarine Availability Support Hub and a Technology Centre provide critical systems for defence and civil markets; Corsham, where it manages and operates the MoD’s military satellite communications system Skynet; and Tidworth, where it stores and maintains military vehicles.
Last week it was announced Babcock’s business activity was worth £1.3 billion to the South West economy in 2024.
