Babcock International Group, a leading provider of critical engineering services to the defence industry, has been recognized with an Innovation award in the 2023 Army Technology Excellence Awards for its groundbreaking advancements in manufacturing and cybersecurity within the defence industry. The recognition comes on the heels of two significant technological developments that are set to revolutionize the way armed forces operate and maintain their equipment.
Pioneering 3D printing in armoured vehicle maintenance
Babcock has achieved a significant milestone by producing the first 3D printed metal parts for the UK’s armoured vehicle fleets, specifically the Titan and Trojan. The innovative approach to manufacturing addresses the challenges of technical and commercial obsolescence by enabling the rapid production of parts that are no longer available through traditional means. The steel components, used in the vehicles’ periscope systems, exemplify how additive manufacturing can enhance the resilience of the supply chain and reduce dependency on mass production.
The ability to print obsolete parts in a matter of days represents a significant leap forward in operational efficiency and readiness.
Advancing cybersecurity with SwarmCore technology
In collaboration with Arqit, a leader in quantum-safe encryption, Babcock has developed SwarmCore, an advanced software system that can control single or entire fleets of vehicles, including drones. The technology, which can be operated autonomously or remotely, offers a decentralized approach to data transmission, ensuring robust protection against cyber threats.
SwarmCore’s integration with Arqit’s Symmetric Key Agreement Platform ensures that even if one vehicle in a fleet is compromised, the rest can continue their mission without interruption. This resilience is crucial in modern warfare, where cyber threats are an ever-present concern.
The development of such technologies provides defence customers with enhanced control, performance, and security, while also allowing for remote operations that are more cost-effective and efficient.
A future-proof approach to defence operations
Both the additive manufacturing initiative and the SwarmCore technology underscore Babcock’s forward-thinking approach to defence operations. By embracing disruptive technologies such as 3D printing, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and quantum encryption, Babcock is not only improving current capabilities but also paving the way for future advancements.
The Innovation award is a testament to Babcock’s commitment to addressing the complex challenges faced by the defence industry. As the company continues to invest in and develop cutting-edge solutions, it solidifies its position as a leader in providing secure, efficient, and advanced services to its defence customers.
Collaboration and recognition
The success of these initiatives is also a product of strategic partnerships with entities like Plymouth Science Park and Arqit, as well as support from the UK’s national innovation agency, Innovate UK. Such collaborations are essential in fostering innovation and bringing transformative technologies to the forefront of defence strategy.
Company Profile
Babcock International Group is a leading force in the international defence, aerospace, and security sectors, with a significant presence in the UK, Australasia, Canada, France, and South Africa, and a growing footprint in other potential focus markets through strategic exports.
Renowned for its commitment to delivering engineering excellence, Babcock provides comprehensive through-life technical and engineering support, ensuring affordability, availability, and capability for its customers. With a workforce of 26,000 skilled employees, the company offers a range of critical services and products, including frontline support, specialized training, asset management, and the design and manufacture of specialist defence and civil equipment.
Babcock’s innovative solutions in secure communications, electronic warfare, and air defence underscore its dedication to technological advancement and its ability to meet the complex demands of today’s defence and civil markets.
