Defence Contracts Digest: Top Reads 22/02
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Top reads from last week's edition of the Defence Contracts Digest, published 22.02.2024.
BAE announces £70 billion backlog in orders | Munich Security Conference buzzes with drone and AI innovations | UK releases new defence contract reporting guidance
Britain’s BAE Systems has a backlog worth £70 billion in orders, with £38 billion in contracts in 2023. This comes amid major efforts to re-arm, replenish and revitalise defence across Europe and NATO. The company is leading on the UK’s contributions to the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), Dreadnought submarines, AUKUS, and other major initiatives, with a significant chain of smaller partners.
The UK’s Single Source Regulations Office (SSRO) has just released new guidance to help defence contractors fulfil their reporting obligations. Theconsultation opened, is set around obligations which are set to take effect on 1st April 2024.
The Munich Security Conference was focused on the future of AI and drone use, as they transform the face of battlefield operations. This follows the extensive use of drones in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and the spread of Iranian drones, used by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. On AI, Ukraine’s defenders are reportedly using the technology to great effect, helping manage real-time battlefield data.
Finally, the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has updated its DASA 'apply for funding' collection, with a themed 'remote monitoring' competition ending on 5th March, and an 'open call for innovation' ending on 6th March, amongst others ending in the following months.
Top contracts last week:
Austria trebles Pandur EVO 6x6 fleet via $1.9 billion order - Shephard
The Pandur EVO, a 6x6 Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) which features a longer hull design, improved driveline technology and powerpack, will provide a significantly increased level of protection, payload and mobility compared to the Pandur I. The order is with General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS)-Steyr for an additional 225 vehicles.
Elbit Systems wins $300 million deal to supply vehicle systems to European customer - Shephard
Elbit Systems has won a contract to supply equipment and subsystems for a European country’s armoured vehicles which could include UT30 MK2 unmanned turrets and Iron Vision head-mounted displays.
Saab secures multi-million dollar contract for Canadian air defence
The Government of Canada has awarded Saab a contract valued at approximately C$227 million ($168 million) for the highly rated RBS 70 NG short-range air defence system. With deliveries set to commence in 2024, the agreement shows a step towards modernising Canada’s defence arsenal and reinforcing its operational preparedness on the global stage.
