Babcock and ST Engineering launch UK-manufactured 120mm GDAM mortar

GDAMS is a vehicle-mounted, hinged mortar system developed to address the requirement to enhance UK armed forces weaponry.

The mortar system is a result of close collaboration between Babcock and ST Engineering, bringing together complementary skills, technologies and solutions to strengthen the next generation of Britain’s close indirect fire weapon systems.

The GDAMS will be built at Babcock’s production facility in Devonport with a UK supply chain, making it the first UK-manufactured 120mm mortar systems in decades.

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If selected for the UK indirect fires programme, production of the 120mm GDAMS will deliver benefits to the broader South-West region through the upskilling of Babcock’s existing workforce in Plymouth and certainty for the regional supply chain.  Establishing and operating the 120mm GDAMS production line will also create new skilled Babcock roles locally.  

In a statement, Tom Newman, chief executive of Babcock’s Land business, said: “The Babcock 120mm GDAMS can help support the modernisation of the British Army with increased firepower and at the same time increase availability, affordability and capability of the essential equipment.”

Brigadier General (Ret) Jin Kiat Chua, head of ST Engineering’s International Business, Defence and Public Security, said: “GDAMS is the pre-eminent tactical firing solution that pushes power to the edge and increase firepower. This collaboration combines ST Engineering’s extensive mortar expertise with Babcock’s production capabilities to deliver a sovereign solution that aligns with UK’s Land Industrial Strategy and enhances the combat effectiveness of the British Army.”

He added, “This partnership is underpinned by ST Engineering’s proven ability in delivering effective solutions, and a strong commitment to working with strong partners to co-create effective solutions that meet our customers’ needs.”

GDAMS was unveiled at DVD, which took place at the vehicle testing grounds at Millbrook between September 18-19th, 2024.