Babcock International Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Plymouth to formalise a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening skills development, innovation and sustainable economic growth across Plymouth and the wider South West.
The agreement sets out a shared commitment to attracting students to study in the city, enhancing the student experience and creating clearer pathways into employment. It also focuses on addressing future workforce requirements, supporting inward investment and ensuring the wider benefits of defence spending are felt across Plymouth and its communities.
The MoU follows the UK Government’s designation of Plymouth as the National Centre of Marine Autonomy, alongside the UK Defence Growth Deal announced in September 2025. These developments, including the creation of Team Plymouth, are intended to use defence investment as a catalyst for broader economic prosperity, with Babcock and the University already aligned in areas such as skills, research and innovation.
John Gane, Managing Director of Babcock’s Devonport facility, said the partnership would help tackle skills challenges while supporting the city’s long-term growth. “By attracting talented students to Plymouth and providing clear routes into employment, we are investing in the current and future workforce while delivering real benefits for our communities,” he said.
Professor Richard Davies, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Plymouth, said the agreement builds on a long-standing relationship between the two organisations. He added that it demonstrated a shared commitment to boosting the UK’s security and resilience across sectors including defence, energy and business management, while delivering benefits for the wider region.
The MoU builds on existing collaboration, including a co-created nuclear industry module, a Project Manager Degree Apprenticeship and joint Royal Society-funded STEM outreach programmes across the South West.
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