Babcock to partner with uncrewed ground vehicle experts DCE on UK and international opportunities
Babcock and DCE will collaborate on uncrewed ground vehicle systems for UK and international defence customers, combining manufacturing, integration, and robotic expertise.
Babcock International has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Digital Concepts Engineering (DCE) to jointly develop, manufacture, integrate, and support uncrewed ground systems for defence customers in the UK and overseas. The agreement merges DCE’s expertise in uncrewed ground vehicles and robotic control systems with Babcock’s manufacturing, systems integration, and through-life support capabilities. The partnership will explore opportunities to integrate DCE’s platforms and control systems into Babcock’s broader defence solutions, aiming to enhance operational capability for customers.
Central to the collaboration are DCE’s X-Series uncrewed ground vehicle and Marionette Universal Control System. The X-Series is a mid-sized, highly mobile UGV capable of carrying payloads between 150 and 500 kilograms and towing up to three tonnes across difficult terrain. The Marionette system enables existing vehicles to be converted for remote or autonomous operation, offering a flexible method to introduce robotic capabilities across vehicle fleets.
The MoU outlines plans to develop a comprehensive support framework covering training, integration, logistics, infrastructure, and operational support. This aims to help customers transition from acquiring individual platforms to establishing sustainable operational capabilities. The partnership was showcased at DVD 2026, where Babcock integrated its digital ammunition rack onto an X-Series UGV, demonstrating autonomous resupply for mortar and artillery systems alongside remote monitoring of ammunition and logistics supplies.
Louise Atkinson, Chief Executive of Babcock’s Land and Mission Systems business, highlighted the strategic value of autonomous systems in modern military operations. Mike McGinty, Managing Director of DCE, emphasised the complementary strengths of both companies in developing and supporting next-generation uncrewed ground systems for domestic and international markets.