Babcock wins three year Phalanx contract extension

By Tom Kilkelly

6 November 2023

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Credit: GOV.UK

Plymouth-based defence company Babcock has been awarded a three-year contract extension with the Royal Navy, allowing the firm to continue supporting the Navy's Phalanx Close-In Weapon Support System (CIWS).

The Phalanx CIWS is a rapid-fire, computer-controlled, radar-guided gun that can defeat anti-ship missiles and other close-in threats.

This system is found on multiple Royal Navy platforms, including the Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers.

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Babcock has provided the system in-service support since 2006, this contract extension, granted by the UK Ministry of Defence’s Defence Equipment & Support organisation, means that Babcock can provide support for up to 41 systems.

The defence company will also responsible for the logistics management, obsolescence management, availability and reliability of the Phalanx.

Neal Misell, CEO of Babcock’s Mission Systems business, said: “With increased geopolitical instability, it’s vital the Royal Navy has the appropriate tools to fulfil its duties.

''We’re proud to provide in-service support for the Phalanx system – an important part of the Royal Navy’s gunnery.

“Babcock’s world-class weapons team plays a central role in ensuring the Royal Navy’s sailors and its ships are kept safe at sea.”

By Tom Kilkelly

Tom Kilkelly started working as a freelance journalist for The Business Magazine following his graduation from UCL in 2022.

During his studies Tom became very interested in the works of Irish authors including Samuel Beckett and Flann O'Brien (Brian O'Nolan).

His current role as a freelance business reporter is his first exposure to the world of business journalism. Working at TBM has given Tom the chance to really get to grips with the goings-on in the business hive that is the South East.