Babcock International Group (Babcock) and Critical Infrastructure Technologies (CiTech) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop a rapidly deployable hub that can house a combination of 5G communication, Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR) and counter-UAS systems for the Eastern Flank and other defence and national security applications.
“We are delighted to be signing this partnership with CiTech, where we can deliver a rapidly deployable communications, counter-UAS and ISR capability as well as develop a dedicated assembly hub to support further opportunities," Babcock’s International Director, Mark Goldsack, said.
The MOU, which was signed at DSEI, will involve both parties working exclusively on opportunities to supply Eastern Europe with a system based on CiTech’s Nexus 20 platform.
“As an Australian defence industry SME, partnering with Babcock unlocks a pathway for the Nexus 20 to be rapidly scaled across Eastern Europe. This isn’t a single deployment – it’s the beginning of a regional expansion that positions CiTECH’s Nexus 20 as a benchmark capability across NATO’s Eastern Flank," CEO of CiTech, Brenton Scott, added.
The 20ft container sized product, which can be transported on a truck, will house 5G communications, counter UAS, and ISR technology. It can unload itself, adapt to sloping or uneven ground and deploy 20m cyclone rated tower.
As part of the MOU, Babcock and CiTech will also explore the development Nexus 16 assembly hub in Eastern Europe and opportunities across NATO’s Eastern Flank.
Western Australian headquartered CiTech was one of the first companies to join Babcock’s Global Supply Chain Program (GSCP) which aids Australian industry’s access to international defence markets by opening up new commercial pathways.
Babcock’s dedicated GSCP delivery team is situated in both Australia and the UK to provide continual advocacy at a global level and identify gaps in that have the potential to be filled by Australian supplier capability.