A VALLEYS defence firm has been awarded a £45million maintenance contract helping to secure 150 jobs.

The Ministry of Defence contract was won by General Dynamics UK, based in Oakdale, to maintain the Bowman radio system, a secure digital voice and data system.

The system allows frontline soldiers to communicate with colleagues and commanders on the ground, at sea, or in the air, and plays a vital role in Afghanistan giving troops better awareness of any operational situation.

As well as 150 jobs being secured at the Oakdale firm through the contract, a further 150 jobs will also be sustained across the supply chain.

Government minister for defence equipment, support and technology, Philip Dunne, said: "General Dynamics has a proven record of delivering high quality support services to our Armed Forces.

"Bowman is a key communications asset, used by all three services across the globe, enabling greater situational awareness and critically providing a secure system for information sharing and communications.

"This £45 million contract is a good example of how one of our prime contractors is working closely with UK-based small and medium-sized enterprises, helping to rebalance the economy and laying the foundations for lasting growth and shared prosperity in the defence industry."

Assembly member for South Wales East, William Graham, said: “This award is recognition of General Dynamic’s commitment to innovation and their continuing investment in a highly skilled workforce.”

The Oakdale plant has been involved in making the military radio system since it opened in 2002.

In July 2009, defence contracts worth £231million were awarded to the firm for the development of the communication system, which at the time helped to safeguard 800 jobs.