Ayrshire Manufacturer Secures Major Contract to Supply 31 of 62 UK-Built Vehicles for Iraq’s Ministry of Interior

A Scottish firm is playing a key role in one of Iraq’s most significant investments in its emergency services, following a deal facilitated by the UK government.

With backing from UK Export Finance (UKEF), the government’s export credit agency, Iraq’s Ministry of Interior has secured a loan of approximately $31 million to purchase 62 fire-fighting vehicles from the UK. Ayrshire-based Emergency One has been awarded a contract to supply 31 of these vehicles, with Yorkshire-based Angloco providing the remaining half.

This investment represents the most extensive upgrade of Iraq’s firefighting fleet in the 21st century. The new vehicles, each equipped to carry up to 6,500 litres of water and 500 litres of foam, will play a crucial role in combating frequent fires, particularly during Iraq’s scorching summers, which often cause widespread devastation to businesses and communities.

Emergency One, headquartered in Cumnock, is the UK’s leading manufacturer of fire and rescue vehicles, supplying over 90% of the UK’s fire and rescue services. The company continues to expand its global presence, bringing its expertise and innovation to this high-profile contract, further strengthening its influence in the Gulf region.

During 2023-24, UKEF provided £45 million in financial support to Scottish businesses, helping them secure new international contracts. The agency has two dedicated representatives focused on supporting businesses across Scotland.

Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill said:
“This UK Government funding is bringing significant business to Ayrshire-based Emergency One, a leading supplier of fire and rescue vehicles. Deals like this, organised through the hard work of UKEF, are vital to boost our home-grown industries, support jobs and encourage growth for the benefit of the whole UK.

“I wish the company every success as they complete this contract that will make very important improvements to Iraq’s emergency services.

By making it easier for buyers to acquire UK exports, UKEF loans help secure major contracts with favourable payment terms for British businesses. This includes smaller companies that often require upfront payments to fulfil contracts. By encouraging investment in local businesses and employers, this partnership aligns with the government’s Plan for Change, aimed at driving economic growth across all regions.

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.”

J.P. Morgan served as the Sole Mandated Lead Arranger and agent bank for the loan.

John Meakin, Global Head of Export Finance at J.P. Morgan, said:
“J.P. Morgan is delighted to support the finance of firefighting equipment from the UK to the Republic of Iraq.”

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