Serco has significantly strengthened its defence sector footprint in the Asia Pacific region through a series of key contract wins and extensions in Australia. These achievements underscore the company’s role as a trusted partner to governments amid rising demand for critical defence and security services.
The most substantial award is the successful rebid for the HMAS Watson Navy Synthetic Warfare Training contract with the Royal Australian Navy. Valued at over £80 million (approximately AUD$160 million) if all extension options are exercised, this contract continues a partnership established in 2012. Serco will deliver advanced simulator-based maritime warfare training for Maritime Warfare Officers over an initial five-year term, which includes five one-year extension options.
In a separate development, Serco has secured a three-year contract extension, worth around £5 million (c. AUD$10 million), to provide in-service support for Mini Typhoon, Typhoon, and Toplite (MTTT) systems for the Navy. This agreement also includes an option for a further two-year extension.
Beyond core defence, Serco has been selected as the preferred bidder for a critical infrastructure project, tasked with designing and building a new freight vessel for World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island. Part of the New South Wales Government’s Critical Infrastructure Program, the vessel will be built to service the island’s community and visitor economy for the next four decades. Its design will incorporate enhanced biosecurity controls to protect the island’s unique native species.
Commenting on these wins, Anthony Kirby, Serco Group plc Chief Executive Officer, said: “Our success in securing these contracts reflects the strength of our expertise and customer relationships as well as our track record delivering mission-critical services for defence clients. As governments increase spending on defence and national security, I am proud of the role Serco plays in supporting the defence of nations and citizens.”
These awards reinforce strong momentum for Serco’s defence division, which accounted for approximately two-thirds of the group’s order intake in 2025. They demonstrate Serco’s strategic ability to expand its regional presence while maintaining long-term, mission-critical partnerships.
