Leeds-based DIRICKX Systems creates jobs by completing first order for Ministry of Defence

A number of these units will be deployed to support partner forces in Ukraine, the company said.

A spokesman added: “The two contracts demonstrate the UK MOD’s commitment to supporting British business, as well as its confidence in DIRICKX Systems’ superior design, quality and expertise in the manufacture of EB Units.

"It is the largest order received by DIRICKX Systems since its launch less than 12 months ago, and has enabled the company to expand significantly, creating employment in the region and exceeding Q1 (first quarter) quotas.”

Kevin Lyons, the chief executive and founder of DIRICKX Systems, said: “We’re delighted to have fulfilled such a substantial order for UK MOD, and are proud to be supporting them in protecting personnel and assets in Ukraine.

"Their show of faith has enabled us to employ many experienced members of staff bringing trusted professionals into the DIRICKX Systems family.”

A spokesman said that employee numbers have at least doubled since the MOD contract was awarded, bringing the local workforce to more than 20 people.

The team at DIRICKX Systems has a wealth of experience in the defence and security industry, having previously worked at Hesco Bastion, the manufacturer of expeditionary barriers. The company was formed in 2022 after the closure of the Hesco factory in Leeds, which relocated to Europe in 2021. The management team at DIRICKX Systems has a combined 60 years’ experience in the UK military.

In a statement, the company added: “Having fulfilled Q1 quotas and with a full order book for Q2 (the second quarter), DIRICKX Systems is already making excellent progress towards meeting turnover targets for 2023. Orders are expected to exceed the company’s ambitious growth forecasts.

The statement added: "The company’s expansion plans include completing work on a range of new product designs, a move which was not originally intended for this year, however this has been made possible by the number and scale of orders from new clients such as the MOD.

"DIRICKX Systems is also looking forward to cementing its reputation as an employer of choice and re-establishing Leeds as the home of the manufacture and supply of defensive barrier systems.”

"DIRICKX SYSTEMS has had a strong start to 2023,’’ the spokesman added: “Within five years, the management team hopes to be on track to achieving its goal of offering a diverse range of products and becoming market leader in its field.”