The UK Government has announced a series of Defence Growth Deals aimed at strengthening regional economies and expanding the national defence industry. Five new deals across Plymouth, South Yorkshire, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland will be backed by £250 million over five years.
The initiative targets job creation, skills development, and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises within defence supply chains. Early projections indicate demand for up to 50,000 additional defence roles by 2034/35 as procurement and spending rise.
Investments will focus on regional specialisms. Plymouth will receive funding to advance maritime autonomy. South Yorkshire will expand its capabilities in specialist materials and components. Wales will grow its UAV sector. Scotland will enhance space, maritime, and technology industries. Northern Ireland will build on existing cybersecurity and maritime strengths.
The programme integrates businesses, government, and academia to drive innovation and attract investment. It aligns with the Defence Industrial Strategy, supported by a planned increase in defence spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2027, with a target of 3% in the following Parliament. The strategy aims to reinforce the UK’s industrial base and improve the sector’s capacity to respond to emerging security challenges.
