The first Jackal 3 Extenda models recently rolled off the
Babcock production line in Devonport, marking a significant milestone in the programme. Working in partnership with defence SME
Supacat in Honiton, Babcock is manufacturing 53 six-wheeled ‘Extenda’ variants, known as the Jackal 3 (E), for the British Army.
The Jackal 3 family is regarded as the most versatile high-mobility weapons platform in its class, capable of reconnaissance, patrol and logistic tasks. The Extenda variant adds an extra axle for greater load-carrying capacity while maintaining exceptional off-road performance. Designed by Supacat and built by Babcock, the programme supports high-quality engineering jobs in the South West. This milestone follows the completion of tranche one, which delivered 70 standard Jackal 3 models.
Chris Spicer, managing director, engineering and 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 and head of Supacat, concluded: “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.”