British manufacturing has scored a major victory as UK-made fire engines are set to spearhead one of Iraq’s biggest-ever emergency service upgrades – with a £24 million ($31m) loan from UK Export Finance (UKEF) making it all possible.
Iraq’s Ministry of Interior has confirmed the purchase of 62 state-of-the-art fire engines, all built in Britain, in a move that will transform the country’s firefighting capabilities.
Ayrshire-based Emergency One, the UK’s leading fire and rescue vehicle manufacturer, will produce 31 of the high-tech engines, while Yorkshire’s Angloco will supply the rest.
This landmark deal will see the biggest overhaul of Iraq’s fire service this century, equipping the country with lifesaving, cutting-edge vehicles. Each engine can carry up to 6,500 litres of water and 500 litres of foam, providing vital support in tackling Iraq’s frequent and devastating summer blazes.
UK MANUFACTURING FIRES UP GLOBAL EXPORTS
The deal marks another huge win for British industry, as Scotland’s Emergency One—which supplies 90% of UK fire services—continues to expand its international reach.
Steven Bell, Managing Director at Emergency One, said:
“We’re incredibly proud to be part of this significant project to modernise Iraq’s fire-fighting capabilities. The partnership with Iraq’s Ministry of Interior, supported by UK Export Finance, highlights the strength of British engineering and our commitment to delivering world-class fire and rescue vehicles.
“It’s an honour to contribute to the safety and resilience of communities across Iraq, and we look forward to continuing our support as part of this important collaboration.”
The financing, arranged through J.P. Morgan, is backed by UK Export Finance (UKEF), the government’s credit agency that helps British businesses secure major overseas contracts.
John Meakin, Global Head of Export Finance at J.P. Morgan, added:
“J.P. Morgan is delighted to support the finance of firefighting equipment from the UK to the Republic of Iraq.”
SUPPORTING BRITISH BUSINESS ABROAD
The announcement follows a bumper year for UKEF, which provided £45 million in support to Scottish businesses in 2023-24 alone.
The department works hand in hand with organisations like DBT Scotland, Scottish Enterprise, UK Infrastructure Bank, British Business Bank, and Scottish National Investment Bank, ensuring British businesses remain competitive on the world stage.
As Britain forges ahead on the global market, this latest success story once again highlights the strength, innovation, and world-class quality of UK manufacturing.
Main Image: For illustration purposes only. Image created by Grok.
