First Jackal 3 Extenda models roll off Babcock production line
Babcock has reached a landmark milestone in the Jackal 3 programme, as the first all-terrain vehicles - from the second tranche - roll off its production line in Devonport.
Above: The Jackal production line in Devonport.
Courtesy Babcock
Working in partnership with defence SME Supacat, Babcock is manufacturing 53 six-wheeled ‘Extenda’ variants, known as the Jackal 3 (E), for the British Army.
The Jackal 3 family is the most versatile high-mobility weapons platform in its class, equally capable of reconnaissance, patrol and logistic tasks and with an additional axle, the Jackal 3 (E) has greater load carrying capacity whilst still maintaining its exemplary off-road performance.
Designed by Supacat of Honiton and built by Babcock in Devonport, the defence programme supports high-quality engineering jobs in the South-West.
The milestone follows the completion of tranche one – which has delivered 70 standard Jackal 3 models.
Chris Spicer, Managing Director, Engineering & Systems Integration at Babcock, said: “The Jackal 3 (E) provides the British Army with a formidable vehicle which enables troops to carry out a variety of missions.
"This is an important milestone in a programme which ensures our Armed Forces have a best-in-class vehicle – while providing skilled jobs in the South West and clearly demonstrating that defence is a real driver for economic growth.”
Phil Applegarth, Director, Head of Supacat, said: “We are proud to announce that, following the recent deliveries of Jackal 3 vehicles to the British Army, the next tranche of Jackal 3 Extendas are now rolling off the Babcock production line in Devonport.
"A resilient, collaborative supply chain, underpinned by a secure industrial and manufacturing base is vital for UK defence at this pivotal time.
"The ongoing production of world-class HMT Jackal vehicles demonstrates our commitment to the Government’s Defence Industrial Strategy, supporting and sustaining high-value jobs across the UK supply chain.”