The 10-year Remote Weapons Stations (RWS) contract will
protect over 700 jobs at Thales UK’s Glasgow site while
supporting 30 apprenticeships.
It uses a 360degree high definition long range cameras
attached to the outside of the vehicle to scan for enemy
threats, even when Boxer is moving at speed. The RWS then
alerts soldiers inside the armoured Boxer through a digital
display – so they can keep a permanent watch outside while
remaining safely inside the vehicle.
The system also offers key defensive capabilities,
including a multi-barrel smoke grenade launcher, thermal
imaging, and infra-red pointers.
Defence last year secured a substantial settlement of more
than £24 billion over four years to modernise the Armed
Forces to meet the threats of the future and support
British across the Union.
Minister for Scotland, said:
We look forward to working with Thales UK on the delivery
of these Remote Weapons Stations, knowing this contract
will not only contribute to the safety of British
military personnel on the front line, but also support
industry growth here in Scotland.
Protecting hundreds of jobs and supporting 30
apprenticeships, this £180 million UK Government
investment further demonstrates our commitment to
supporting the defence sector in Scotland and underscores
the many opportunities available within the United
Kingdom economy.
Minister of State for Defence, said:
This £180m contract with Thales UK will deliver
pioneering surveillance and protection for our front line
soldiers and our new Boxer fleet. We depend on skills and
technology from across the United Kingdom and this order
will secure 700 Scottish jobs.
Our troops face a myriad of new and emerging threats so
it is imperative we invest in critical detect and destroy
technology such as this.
Following the sonar contract for Dreadnought submarines
last year, this is Thales UK’s second multi-million-pound
contract within 12 months, further showcasing the
government’s commitment to levelling-up across the UK.
DE&S Director Land Equipment, Major General Darren Crook
said:
This is another significant step forward for Boxer and I
am delighted to see the different threads of the
programme coming together. This is a military capability
of the future to be proud of.
The UK re-joined the Boxer programme in 2018 and has
committed £2.8 billion to deliver over 500 vehicles to the
British Army. The first vehicles are scheduled to be ready
for service in 2023.
Steven Lockley, Managing Director of Thales in the UK’s
vehicle integration business in Glasgow, said:
Thales’ sub-contract is a great step forward after months
of hard work. Working with our strategic partners, Thales
is bringing new skills and technologies into the
programme, our facilities in Scotland and the UK supply
chain.
