Weapon handling and launch systems on British submarines are receiving support services from Babcock Defense Systems Technology UK.

The contract, which also covers Submerged Signal Ejector equipment, was issued by the Ministry of Defense for a period of five years, the company said, but its value was not disclosed.

Babcock said that under the award it is responsible for the provision and management of all capital spares and repairs and also provide engineering support within Britain and overseas.

Management of equipment safety, obsolescence management and inventory will also be conducted.

"Babcock has previously supported the WHLS and SSE equipment on UK submarines and provided technical support and spares under different contracts, but assuming the role of Technical Authority under this new contract will permit a greater level of autonomy regarding design improvements and the provision of proactive support to the waterfront maintenance staff and the end user of the equipment, which will support the MOD's drive to increase platform availability," said Jasper Saunders, Babcock Defense Systems Technology UK In-Service Support business manager.

"Using Babcock's substantial inventory management and modeling capabilities we will be able to drive down the cost of ownership to the MOD over the duration of the contract, and assist in the reduction of current stockholding levels while ensuring demand requirements are met."