QinetiQ to apply defence expertise to Warren Street Tube station modernisation

QinetiQ, the international defence and security technology company has won a multi-million pound contract to support Metronet Rail on the modernisation of Warren Street station.

QinetiQ will bring a breath of fresh air to the London Underground station by re-cladding walls and ceilings within the station using panels made from a fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite manufactured by BFG International based in Bahrain.

Unlike the metallic panels that are traditionally used on the tube network, the FRP panels fitted by QinetiQ are more adaptable to architectural features and inherently resistant to corrosion. Importantly they are also the only composite panels to meet London Underground’s stringent requirements for fire safety.

Over many decades, from the invention of carbon fibre to its widespread use today, QinetiQ has built up an unparalleled knowledge in composite materials. QinetiQ is also drawing on its expertise in technology insertion and systems integration to incorporate other technologies such as lighting, water management and panel-based speakers into their station cladding system.

Metronet Rail, now owned by Transport for London, is revitalising and upgrading two-thirds of the Tube. QinetiQ and Metronet are already working together on modernising platforms at Holborn station.

Clive Richardson, Chief Operating Officer of QinetiQ’s EMEA business said: “We are delighted to be working with Metronet Rail to ensure they meet the demanding timetable set for station refurbishment. For us, working flexibly alongside the customer to meet their needs is just as important as providing an innovative technical solution.”