KBR and Unipart forge strategic partnership which aims to transform defence sector

KBR and Unipart announced a new strategic partnership at DSEI 2025, the flagship event for the defence sector in the UK, bringing together the two businesses' world-class capabilities to deliver innovative and resilient solutions for the defence industry.

The partnership combines KBR's deep-rooted experience in systems engineering, programme management, and defence operational support, with Unipart's expertise in supply chain management, logistics and digital solutions.

The official signing ceremony, held at the KBR stand, was attended by key leaders from both companies and the wider defence community. The partnership was cemented with a formal signing by Paul O'Shaughnessy, Vice President at KBR, and Jim Hartshorne, Managing Director, Commercial at Unipart.

The announcement follows a series of successful high-level meetings, including a gathering of key leaders from both organisations. The discussions brought together Gabe Camarillo, SVP, Defense Technology Solutions at KBR, with Darren Leigh, CEO of Unipart, alongside Paul O'Shaughnessy and Jim Hartshorne, underscoring the strategic importance and shared vision of the partnership.

Paul O'Shaughnessy commented on the significance of the new partnership: "We are delighted to join forces with Unipart in this strategic partnership which positions us uniquely to deliver innovative, sovereign secured and resilient solutions for the defence sector. This collaboration underscores the commitment to our shared vision of enhancing the operational readiness and sustainability of our armed forces. Together, we will provide integrated, intelligence-led supply chain solutions that ensure uninterrupted operational readiness and a sustainable future for our nation."

Jim Hartshorne added: "This partnership with KBR is a natural fit, uniting two organisations with a shared commitment to innovation and excellence. The defence sector is evolving rapidly, and the demands on supply chains are more complex than ever. By combining Unipart's award-winning logistics and digital capabilities with KBR's extensive defence knowledge, we can offer a truly unique and powerful proposition to our clients. We are ready to help defence organisations build more resilient, efficient, and sustainable operations for the future."

The partnership, poised to become a key player in the defence market, will focus on delivering integrated, intelligence-led supply chain solutions that ensure uninterrupted operational readiness, seamless transformation, and a sustainable future for our armed forces and the nation.