Four-year contract renewal strengthens science-led approach to safeguarding national transport infrastructure
Jacobs, in strategic partnership with PA Consulting, has secured a four-year contract extension from the UK Department for Transport to continue leading the U.K. National Security Science and Research program (NSSR).
The program is designed to accelerate innovation and translate research into operational solutions that enhance security and resilience across the United Kingdom’s air, road and rail networks.
Consortium Approach to National Transport Security
The Jacobs-PA consortium also includes:
- QinetiQ
- TNO
- Iconal Technology
- Cambridge University Technical Services Limited
- Prometheus Policing Services
Over the next four years, the consortium will deliver science-driven solutions to help anticipate emerging threats, manage evolving risks and protect critical transport infrastructure.
The initiative supports coordinated security efforts across transport modes and government agencies, aligning research, innovation and operational deployment.
Science-Led Solutions Across Transport Modes
Jacobs contributes expertise in:
- Transport infrastructure design and engineering
- Systems integration
- Infrastructure resilience planning
PA Consulting brings capabilities in:
- Quantum technologies
- Cybersecurity
- Aviation security
- Program and innovation management
The collaboration emphasizes agile delivery methods, enabling rapid translation of research findings into real-world applications.
Jacobs Executive Vice President Richard Sanderson stated that the program applies scientific and technological rigor to operational transport security challenges, reinforcing long-term network resilience.
PA Consulting’s Steve Carden highlighted the strategic importance of collaboration in addressing complex national security issues, particularly in areas such as cyber threats, standards development and behavioral science.
Broader Transport Portfolio
Beyond the NSSR program, Jacobs supports major transport initiatives globally, including:
- Elizabeth line (U.K.)
- Transpennine Route Upgrade
- Melbourne Metro
- Grand Central Madison for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority
The company also advises Copenhagen Metro on operations and safety and is partnering with Dallas Fort Worth International Airport on AI-powered airport systems.
Jacobs employs more than 5,000 people across the U.K., supporting national infrastructure, energy and environmental programs.
Strategic Investment in Innovation
Jacobs currently holds a majority stake in PA Consulting and has agreed to acquire the remaining interest, with the transaction expected to close by the end of Jacobs’ fiscal 2026 second quarter, subject to customary conditions.
The contract extension underscores the U.K. government’s continued emphasis on leveraging public-private collaboration and applied science to maintain secure, resilient and adaptable transport systems.
As transport networks face increasingly complex security threats—ranging from cyberattacks to physical risks—the renewed U.K. National Security Science and Research program positions innovation at the forefront of national infrastructure protection.
