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The University of Strathclyde, Glasgow and BAE Systems have signed a strategic framework agreement to strengthen a long-term relationship in research, education and consultancy. According to the announcement of the arrangement, the collaboration is likely to include the development of lasers, intelligent automation systems, rapid integration and manufacturing, design simulation, energy and power management and meeting environmental challenges. Strathclyde is now, one of only five selected universities in the UK to have signed such an agreement, after BAE Systems announced its aim to focus on building partnerships with a smaller number of universities that shared expertise in particular areas of future capability.
BAE System believes that the partnership builds on their existing working relationships to extend collaboration, boosting the UK’s defence industrial skills base and supporting the next generation of engineers and scientists.
$180 million Contract for Laser-Guided Rockets
BAE Systems has recently also received a $180.5 million contract by the US Navy to continue producing Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWSTM) laser-guided rockets to meet the growing U.S. and international demand for the systems. APKWS rockets are seeing increasing use in theater as they deliver cost-effective precision strikes with reduced potential for collateral damage. The latest order, which is funded under the recently-announced “indefinite delivery / indefinite quantity” contract, will help BAE Systems to meet the increased demand. APKWS laser-guided rockets allow military forces to leverage existing munitions and weapons systems investments with minimal effort and training. The APKWS mid-body guidance kit transforms standard unguided Hydra 70 (2.75-inch) rockets into highly accurate precision munitions by easily screwing into place between the warhead and the motor.
The collaboration forms part of the BAE Systems’ overarching Skills 2020 strategy, which aims to nurture the skills required for the company to remain competitive and operate successfully over the current decade and beyond.
