Copyright: UK MOD. Crown copyright 2023Rotherham-based
MTL Advanced Ltd, a leading contract manufacturing and fabrication specialist, has been awarded additional multi-million, multi-year defence contracts from Amsterdam-based
KNDS Group for the UK’s Boxer programme. MTL Advanced is adding to its current contract to supply armoured steel kits of parts for over 450 drive modules to the fabrication line of KNDS’s subsidiary
WFEL Ltd in Stockport.
In addition to this existing contract, MTL has now also been awarded a further contract to undertake the full fabrication and assembly of mission modules. These deals, which have a combined value in excess of £40 million over the next eight years, mark another significant milestone for MTL Advanced and demonstrate customers confidence in MTL’s abilities and reputation as the leading supplier of complex armoured fabrications to the defence industry.
MTL general manager Karl Stewart said: “We are delighted to have been awarded these prestigious contracts. This achievement not only reinforces our position as a trusted partner in the defence industry, but also reflects the exceptional capabilities of our factory and our team. We are proud to be contributing to the production of the UK’s Boxer vehicles, which will play a vital role in enhancing the operational capabilities of the British Armed Forces.”
Investing in the futureHe added: “Contracts of this type allow the business to grow its workforce in both skilled labour and invest in the future through our award-winning apprenticeship scheme. Based on this and other contracts which MTL has won over the last six months, the company is expecting to recruit over 50 additional staff during 2024 and create opportunities for a further 15 apprenticeship positions each year.”
On the back of these recent contract awards, MTL Advanced has invested over £2.5 million during 2023 in new equipment and during 2024 will be making further significant investments in new equipment and the manufacturing footprint.
Ian Anderton, managing director of WFEL Ltd, said: “KNDS demands the highest quality components and service levels from its sub-contractors and MTL meets these rigorous requirements. Partnerships like this highlight our commitment to a long-term collaborative approach supporting co-investment in delivery, innovation and manufacturing in the UK.”
The 8x8 Boxer is a highly versatile and technologically advanced platform, designed to meet the evolving requirements of rmed forces around the world. The vehicle is designed to be highly modular, with a variety of mission modules that can be swapped out to meet different operational requirements, including armoured personnel carrier (APC), specialist carrier vehicle, command post, and ambulance.