Canadian-owned defence firm Marshall Land Systems, which is relocating its UK production from Cambridge to South Wales, has formed a new research alliance with universities on both sides of the Atlantic. The company's new factory site in Merthyr will reach production capacity at the end of the year with 160 staff.
Research alliance and production plans
The Marshall Land Research Alliance has been set up alongside Cardiff University, the University of South Wales, and the University of New Brunswick in Canada. The alliance brings together academics and technology experts to explore new technologies in deployable infrastructure for military and humanitarian use.
The firm's deployable infrastructure ranges from CT scanners and medical facilities to mechanical maintenance and command centres. Its new assembly plant, chosen after a UK-wide search, will produce deployable infrastructure to protect NATO personnel on operations, humanitarian missions, and on bases.
Workforce growth and investment
A signed memorandum of understanding will enable 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. With the UK Government and other countries committing more budgets to defence and security, Marshall is well positioned to win additional contracts that could create even more jobs at its Merthyr site.
The average salary at the factory will be around £32,000, and 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.
Leadership and academic backing
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.
