Four-year extension to accelerate innovation across air, road and rail security
Program advances science-led solutions to protect U.K. transport systems
Jacobs, in strategic partnership with PA Consulting, has secured a four-year contract extension from the U.K. Department for Transport to continue leading the National Security Science and Research (NSSR) program. The program demonstrates how government and industry can work together to accelerate and translate innovation into operational outcomes that strengthen security and resilience across the U.K.’s air, road and rail networks.
Alongside Jacobs and PA Consulting, the consortium includes QinetiQ, TNO, Iconal Technology, Cambridge University Technical Services Limited and Prometheus Policing Services. Over the next four years, the team will deliver science-led solutions designed to help the Department for Transport anticipate risks, respond to emerging threats and safeguard critical transport infrastructure.
Supporting a coordinated approach across modes and agencies, Jacobs contributes capabilities in transport infrastructure, systems integration and resilience planning, while PA brings deep innovation and scientific expertise in quantum, cyber, aviation security and program management.
Also Read: CIO Influence Interview with Gera Dorfman, Chief Product Officer at Orca
Jacobs Executive Vice President Richard Sanderson said: “This program applies science, technology and agile delivery discipline to real-world transport security challenges. Continuing this work supports the Department for Transport’s goal of maintaining a secure, resilient and adaptable transport network over the long term.”
PA Consulting Transport Innovation Expert Steve Carden said: “This strategically important work sits at the intersection of innovation, security and public impact. The renewed contract shows how collaboration can address complex national security challenges and scale impact across critical areas like cyber, standards and characterization, and behavioral science. Together we are working to strengthen national security while building a more resilient transport network and keeping the U.K.’s transport systems moving safely, every day.”
Together, Jacobs and PA support transport clients across the full infrastructure lifecycle, from planning and design through operations and maintenance. Work includes advising Copenhagen Metro on operations and safety for its high-capacity urban system, and partnering with Dallas Fort Worth International Airport to design an AI-powered intelligent airport foundation that improves efficiency and passenger experience.
Jacobs supports complex transport programs globally, including the Elizabeth line and the Transpennine Route Upgrade in the U.K., Melbourne Metro in Australia and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s Grand Central Madison program in New York.
Catch more CIO Insights: Identity is the New Perimeter: The Rise of ITDR
[To share your insights with us, please write to psen@itechseries.com ]
