Canadian defence creating 250 jobs in Merthyr in new research alliance

Its new research alliance is with two Welsh universities and one in Canada

A Canadian-owned defence firm which is relocating its UK production from Cambridge to South Wales has forged a new research alliance with universities on both sides of the Atlantic.

Marshall Land Systems, whose new factory site in Merthyr will reach production capacity at the end of the year with 160 staff, has set up the Marshall Land Research Alliance alongside the universities of Cardiff, South Wales, and New Brunswick in Canada.

The firm’s deployable infrastructure ranges CT scanners and medical facilities to mechanical maintenance and command centres. Its new assembly plant was chosen after a UK-wide search, and will produce deployable infrastructure that will protect NATO personnel on operations, humanitarian missions, and on bases.

The alliance together leading academics and technology experts to explore new technologies in the field of deployable infrastructure for military and humanitarian use.

A signed memorandum of understanding will unable technology transfer, staff exchanges and joint research and development work.

Over the next five years, based on its current order book alone, Marshall is confident of growing its workforce in Merthyr to 250. However, with the UK Government and other countries committing more of their budgets to defence and security, Marshall is well positioned to win additional contracts that could see even more jobs created at its Merthyr site.

The firm’s deployable infrastructure ranges CT scanners and medical facilities to mechanical maintenance and command centres.

Its new assembly plant was chosen after a UK-wide search, and will produce deployable infrastructure that will protect NATO personnel on operations, humanitarian missions, and on bases.

The average salary at the factory will be around £32,000, while Marshall is also looking to take on around 15 apprentices.

The firm has entered into a 15-year lease with the owner of the building, Figsand, with an option to acquire it. The Merthyr site extends to 191,600 sq ft and occupies 8.2 acres at Merthyr Industrial Park.

Marshall Land Systems chief executive, Gareth Williams, said: “In an increasingly volatile world, the long-standing and fundamental alliance between Canada and the UK is becoming ever more important. As NATO allies invest to protect our way of life, this transatlantic research alliance will bring together the smartest brains in support of the effort to keep us safe and the world stable.

“We’re proud to be convening this vital joint work between Wales and New Brunswick under the Marshall Land Research Alliance.”

Professor Louise Bright, pro vice chancellor for enterprise, engagement, and partnerships at the University of South Wales, said:“We are proud to be a founding partner in the Marshall Land Research Alliance, a bold collaboration that will help shape the future of innovation, skills and advanced manufacturing in South Wales.

” USW’s strengths in research, advanced manufacturing and skills development position us to connect industry, talent and innovation in ways that deliver real impact.

“This partnership will create valuable opportunities for our students and staff to work alongside leading industry partners on real-world challenges, while helping businesses develop the skills and expertise they need to grow.

“With Marshall Land Systems establishing a major new facility in South Wales, this Alliance comes at a pivotal moment for the region. Together, we can support innovation, expand opportunities for graduates and help drive long-term economic growth across Wales.”

Professor Roger Whitaker, Cardiff University’s pro vice-chancellor for research, innovation and enterprise, said: “Cardiff University is pleased to be a founding partner in the Marshall Land Research Alliance, bringing together academic and industry expertise to support research, innovation and skills development in areas including advanced manufacturing, engineering and defence.

The alliance provides opportunities for our staff to work with partners on research, innovation and workforce development. It also comes at an important time for South Wales, with the potential to support new collaborations between universities, industry and government.

Through research, knowledge exchange and skills development, we hope to contribute to opportunities for students, graduate employment, businesses and communities, while supporting the long-term strength and resilience of the Welsh economy through research and innovation.”

Dr David MaGee, vice president research at the University of New Brunswick said: “We take great pride in fostering strong, mutually beneficial partnerships that help us make a meaningful impact in Canada and around the world. I look forward to working with Marshall Land Systems, Cardiff University, and the University of South Wales to advance innovative technologies and contribute to Canada’s NATO commitments.

“By leveraging our academic expertise and learning from our collaborators, we will address common challenges and create lasting benefits for our institutions, our industries, and our countries.”

As well as its Canadian and UK operations, Marshall Land Systems has a factory in the Netherlands. It currently has a global workforce of 600.