SOUTHAMPTON'S FBM Babcock Marine has won a contract with the US Army to overhaul and modernise its fleet of bridge boats.

The initial phase of the contract will be worth about £3m.

An arm of support services company Babcock International Group PLC, FBM Babcock Marine has a history of working with the US Army stretching back a quarter of a century.

It designed, built and supplied the Bridge Erection Boats in the first place and says it is testament to their quality that they don't need replacement.

Managing director John Warbey said: "It is especially pleasing that these boats have performed so outstandingly for the US Army over the last 25 years that they have decided to modernise them, rather than opt for replacements.

"It is testimony to the robust nature of the design and construction that they have survived the numerous operations worldwide demanded of them."

The BEBs are used to build and propel bridge raft structures into position, where they are then able to provide the thrust required to hold a bridge in position against strong river currents.

The US Army has taken delivery of more than 700 since they were first introduced, with the boats also being used for secondary tasks, including performing river patrol duties.

FBM Babcock Marine also supply patrol vessels to Chile and Ecuador and landing craft to the UK.