Oxfordshire-based E P Barrus has signed a new seven-year contract with the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) ‘for the delivery of engine support to maintain the capability of MoD boats’, which secures 40 jobs at its factory in Bicester, future roles for young engineering students and also protect the company’s graduate engineering intake programme. In addition, around 80 jobs across the UK supply chain will be safe-guarded by the contract.
The scope of the contract covers the supply, overhaul, and repair of all outboard engines, Yanmar inboard diesel engines, and related post-design services and in-service support.
The contract covers support to approximately 1,100 boats within the current MoD in-service fleet for craft under 25m, including inflatables and rigid inflatable boats (RIBs), the Mexeflote landing-raft system powered by the Thrustmaster propulsion unit, workboats, and planned future craft.
James Melia, Defence Equipment and Support Boats Team project manager at the MoD, said, “Boats are an essential capability of the UK Armed Forces and are used for many different operations around the world ensuring that the Royal Navy has the reach it needs to protect the UK’s interests.
“We are committed to ensuring that engines are effectively managed through every stage of their life cycle and our partnership with EP Barrus will provide critical support to this.
“We look forward to continuing to work together to support our front line with the equipment they need while also maintaining vital British skills and jobs.”
Robert Glen, EP Barrus Ltd chairman, said: “The award of this prestigious contract is recognition of Barrus’s reputation as the leading custom-engine builder.
“Our R&D team work closely with the MoD to understand its specific requirements, and, using the latest technological advancements, deliver engineering solutions that match the demanding operating conditions of in-service craft.”