Marshall storms ahead with Tempest combat technology

Marshall of Cambridge is working with BAE Systems to transform future combat air capability for the UK.

Marshall becomes the first supplier to have delegated design authority on the programme.

The inner sanctum team is creating Tempest, a UK-led international Future Combat Air System (FCAS) that will pioneer cutting-edge technology and stay ahead of evolving threats. 

Tempest is focused on delivering a capable, flexible and affordable combat air system by the mid-2030s, providing military, economic and industrial benefit to the UK and our international partners.

Marshall has reached an agreement with BAE Systems to partner on design, manufacture and testing work as part of ongoing technology demonstration projects on Tempest.

Marshall CEO Kathy Jenkins says: “Naturally, given its significance to the UK’s future combat air strategy, we are delighted to have secured a unique role on the ground-breaking Tempest programme.

“This is a testament to the strength and spirit of our partnership and trust in our capabilities for design and manufacturing which has seen our engineering teams work together over a wide range of projects since we signed a joint strategic collaboration framework last year.

“During this period we have been able to repeatedly demonstrate the unique range of expertise Marshall is able to deliver and we look forward to working with our colleagues at BAE Systems on Tempest and other future programmes where our complementary skills will be of benefit.”

Ian Muldowney, chief operating officer for BAE Systems’ Air Sector, added: “Since Team Tempest was launched in 2018, we have continually sought opportunities to bring the very best of UK capability and expertise into the team as we seek to develop the generation-defining combat air system which will help safeguard the security of our nation and our allies towards the end of this century.

“We have developed a long and enduring relationship with Marshall who will bring significant experience and expertise to the project. By continuing to widen the partnership, we are increasingly making Tempest a true national endeavour, which will help contribute to the retention, growth and investment in a wider world-class UK skills base and realise significant prosperity benefits for the UK.”

The core work will be undertaken in Cambridge with manufacturing activities taking place at Marshall’s dedicated composites facility in North Yorkshire.

• PHOTOGRAPH: Marshall CEO Kathy Jenkins with Ian Muldowney, COO of BAE System’s Air Sector 

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