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Over 100 jobs secured as Durham firm wins £70m MoD contract

Durham-based Cooks Defence Systems Limited (CDS) has won a £70m contract with the Ministry of Defence (MoD), securing over 100 jobs at the Stanhope firm.

CDS, a designer and manufacturer of track systems for armoured vehicles, has won the contract to make tracks for the British Army’s armoured vehicles.

The family-run steelmaker will design and build the track systems for the British Army’s 62-tonne Challenger 2 main battle tank, the Warrior infantry fighting vehicle and the Scimitar reconnaissance vehicle.

Major General Paul Jaques, Director of Land Equipment at the MOD’s procurement organisation, said: “William Cook factories have manufactured track for armoured vehicles for many years, providing track solutions with proven performance in the toughest environments.

“This four year arrangement with Cooks Defence will enable the re-provision of track and associated spares without which our armoured fighting vehicles could not operate.”

Northern Powerhouse Minister James Wharton said: “Helping the north reach its potential for local people living and working here is exactly why we are committed to creating a Northern Powerhouse. Part of this is about northern companies competing to win business and investment, both from within the UK and overseas.

“Therefore I am delighted that this contract, which will help provide jobs whilst supporting our armed forces, has been secured. Northern cities and towns have a long history in supplying our armed forces with the specialist equipment they need to keep our country safe, and it is encouraging to see this continue today.”

Defence Secretary Michael Fallon revealed that jobs would be supported over a four year deal.

He said: “This contract is good news. It continues a long and proud tradition by the William Cook Group, which has been providing track and armour for British tanks since the Second World War.

“It is part of our £166bn plan to ensure Our Armed forces have the equipment they need. It will sustain jobs here in the North East and hundreds more within the wider UK supply chain.”

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