Significant MOD deal secures 1,200 jobs

A significant deal for the continued in-service support of the RAF Hercules C-130J fleet has managed to secure up to 1,200 jobs across the UK,1,100 of which are located in Cambridge, a recent news report has been able to reveal.

The six-year support contract with Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group has also resulted in savings of £64m for the taxpayer.

The Hercules aircraft are a “vital part” of the RAF’s transport fleet, carrying troops, supplies and equipment in support of operations around the world and the MoD argues that the support contract plays a “crucial role” in maintaining the aircraft’s availability.

Defence secretary Michael Fallon said: “This contract is further evidence of what the growing defence budget with £178bn investment in equipment means for the UK.

“It will secure around 1,200 skilled jobs and ensure our essential RAF transport aircraft are prepared for operations for years to come.”