The contract has an estimated value of up to £53m and could include the provision of maintenance and servicing, technical support, spares supply, and financing. The locomotives are due to enter service in the third quarter of 2019.

DRS says it has “a requirement to enhance its existing fleet” with the acquisition of additional traction.

Since 2014 DRS has modernised its fleet with the addition of 34 class 68 UKLight diesel locomotives and 10 class 88 UKDual electro-diesels from Vossloh (now Stadler Rail Valencia). Financing was provided by Beacon Rail Leasing.

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