The UK is launching a £250 million Defence Industrial Strategy aimed at creating jobs, boosting skills and driving innovation in the defence sector. Defence Secretary John Healey will outline the plan on 8 September during a visit to Bristol-based Rowden, a defence technology firm, where he will also open a new site.
Ministers say the programme will support up to 50,000 jobs by 2035, ranging from engineering roles to apprenticeships. The government has framed the policy as part of its wider effort to link defence spending with regional growth.
Regional Defence Growth Deals
The strategy centres on five regional growth deals, designed to build on local strengths:
- Plymouth: a £4bn investment in naval projects to make the city a hub for marine autonomy.
- South Yorkshire: advanced materials and steelwork for submarines and weapons.
- Wales: expansion of drone and UAV industries, led by firms including Tekever.
- Scotland: research into maritime and space technology around the Clyde and Rosyth.
- Northern Ireland: a focus on cyber security and dual-use technologies with firms such as Thales and Harland & Wolff.
Jobs and Skills Focus
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the policy would “unleash the power of local economies while securing our country.” Funding will be shared between local authorities, businesses and universities to support training and research. Healey said the deals would give smaller firms more opportunities and help develop long-term careers in defence.
Responding to Global Pressures
The strategy comes against the backdrop of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and a renewed push for stronger defence industries in Europe. UK spending on defence is due to rise to 2.6% of GDP by 2027, with a target of 3% in the future. Healey said the plan was “a long-term investment in both security and prosperity.”
