Babcock Partnership Expands Global Naval VR Training
Babcock Partnership Expands Global Naval VR Training
Synopsis
- Partnership extends New Zealand VR training to global defence forces.
- Hamilton’s Company-X systems already support Royal New Zealand Navy operations.
- Babcock to integrate simulation tools across international naval programs.
- INDOPAC presentations highlight VR, AI and safety advancements.
Estimated Read: 3 mins
A New Zealand-developed virtual reality training system is set to expand globally through a strategic partnership between Hamilton’s Company-X and Babcock International. As reported by MySecurity Media and the Asia-Pacific Defence Reporter (APDR), the agreement was announced at the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition in Sydney and marks a decisive step in bringing Kiwi-built simulation technology to international defence forces.
Company-X, which already supplies immersive VR training to the Royal New Zealand Navy, will see its tools incorporated into Babcock’s global naval training and support programs. According to MySecurity Media, these systems strengthen operational readiness through realistic and interactive environments, forming the backbone of specialised training across complex maritime operations. The collaboration allows Babcock to deploy the technology throughout allied militaries, extending the reach of New Zealand’s defence-tech ecosystem.
Lance Bauerfeind, Head of Training and Simulation at Company-X, told MySecurity Media and APDR that the agreement recognises both global demand for New Zealand innovation and the depth of skills within the country’s technology sector. He emphasised that the Navy already relies on Company-X platforms for immersive experiences that enhance operational outcomes, noting that the new partnership ensures continued development of systems designed to “run the world better” while showcasing New Zealand’s talent domestically and abroad.
Babcock International — operating from Devonport Naval Base for nearly 30 years — said in APDR’s coverage that the partnership confirms confidence in the reliability and capabilities of the New Zealand defence-technology industry. The signing was attended by Sir Nick Hine, CEO Marine at Babcock International, and Gary Bancroft, Head of Supply Chain.
New Zealand Associate Minister of Defence Chris Penk welcomed the development, stating — as reported by both publications — that deeper engagement between major global suppliers and local defence partners strengthens national supply-chain resilience.
During INDOPAC, Bauerfeind also presented insights on the evolving role of simulation in naval operations. According to the reports, he highlighted how advanced VR and AI-driven efficiency can address complex operational challenges and improve safety outcomes across modern fleets.
For Babcock, the agreement underscores the strategic value of integrating high-performing domestic technologies into its worldwide operations while reinforcing resilience through diversified supply chains. For Company-X, it represents a major step toward international deployment and elevated recognition of New Zealand’s emerging defence-tech talent. As both MySecurity Media and APDR note, the partnership signals that VR-enabled training is rapidly becoming an essential capability for contemporary naval forces.
A photo released by MySecurity Media shows Associate Minister Chris Penk, Gary Bancroft, Lance Bauerfeind and Sir Nick Hine at the signing ceremony, marking the official launch of the Babcock at INDOPAC in Sydney.
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About Babcock International
Babcock International is a UK-headquartered engineering and defence company that provides critical support services to military, government, and civil customers around the world. The company is best known for managing complex, high-trust assets such as naval fleets, submarines, and defence infrastructure, often under long-term contracts. In the maritime domain, Babcock delivers ship maintenance, refit, and modernisation, along with advanced training, simulation, and through-life support for naval forces.
It operates key facilities such as Devonport Naval Base in New Zealand and major dockyards in the UK. Beyond sea power, Babcock is active in aviation services, emergency response support, nuclear services, and mission-critical training across multiple sectors. The company positions itself as a partner focused on readiness, resilience, and safety, helping defence customers integrate new technologies—such as VR-based training, autonomy, and advanced digital systems—into existing platforms to enhance operational capability and reduce risk.
Featured Image Source NZ Herald
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