Shares digital

The Ministry of Defence’s Defence Technology and Innovation Centre (DTIC) has awarded a £9 million framework contract to SEA, the recently acquired subsidiary of technical consultancy Cohort (CHRT:AIM), for the DTIC’s Expeditionary Logistics & Support research programme.

The research programme is targeted at developing new techniques, processes and technology to support expeditionary operations by the UK armed forces. A wide range of capabilities are included in the programme, such as strategic mobility, theatre maritime, ground and medical sustainment. In order to maintain effective operations in countries such as Afghanistan and Iraq, it is vital that efficient expeditionary logistics and support are in place.

SEA was acquired by Henley-On-Thames-based Cohort last October and is a UK-based independent systems engineering and software company. Its core capability is the development of innovative electronic surveillance systems for the defence, space, transport and offshore markets.

SEA’s approach to managing the research programme will ensure that the DTIC is given maximum benefit from the knowledge and research activities of SEA and its participating companies. Last month, SEA also won contracts from Transport for London (TfL) and Network Rail with a combined value of more than £5.5 million. The contract with TfL involves the design, development, roll-out and operation of a new Digital Traffic Enforcement System, while the contracts with Network Rail are for a Signal Sighting Asset Data Store and the automation of Signallers Forms. Cohort’s shares were up 4% to 167.5p.

Shares says: A significant deal which promises further good news further down the line.