DSEI 2019: General Dynamics establishes “unique UK national capability” for Armoured Fighting Vehicle.

ExCeL Exhibition Centre, London – General Dynamics Land Systems–UK is demonstrating its ability to deliver a “unique national capability” for UK Armoured Fighting Vehicle (AFV) design and production at Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2019.

Picture of General Dynamics display (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The company has delivered to the British Army the Cougar-based Mastiff, Ridgeback and Wolfhound fleet to meet Urgent Operational Requirements, alongside 400 Foxhound vehicles, which meets its Protected Mobility requirements. Currently, General Dynamics Land Systems–UK is in-production for the best-in-class fully-digital AJAX Family of AFVs for the British Army and has invested significantly in Centres of Excellence at Oakdale and Merthyr Tydfil in South Wales.

The facility at Oakdale is an engineering hub with more than 300 highly-skilled engineers across all disciplines, including software, electrical and mechanical, who have the skills and knowledge needed to design, deliver and ensure the Through-Life Capability of the AFVs of today and the future. In addition, Oakdale features a high-tech Systems Integration Laboratory and a range of test facilities to support the development and sustainment of AFVs. At Merthyr Tydfil, there is a growing team of highly-trained production specialists, including graduates and apprentices, at a facility that has been designed at the outset to meet future requirements, including the ability to handle Main Battle Tanks.

Carew Wilks, vice president and general manager of General Dynamics Land Systems–UK, said: “General Dynamics Land Systems–UK has invested significantly in the UK, which is a testament to our commitment to the British Army and the UK’s economic prosperity. We are developing the team and facilities needed to ensure the UK retains a world-class and national AFV design and manufacturing capability. Merthyr Tydfil, for example, is the largest AFV production site of its scale in the UK. In addition, we are working closely with businesses, large and small, right across the UK as we develop the cutting-edge supply chain that will mean the British Army remains at the forefront of AFV capability for the decades ahead. We have an on-going dialogue with our customer about how we can sustain this national and unique AFV capability, available to the nation in times of crisis, for the years ahead.”

General Dynamics has been in the UK for more than 50 years and employs more than 1,500 highly-qualified people across multiple locations, including Oakdale, Merthyr Tydfil, Royal Leamington Spa and Hastings.