The UK government has increased defence spending to support jobs, skills and growth in the country.
Defence is not just about protecting the country, it’s about building its future. Increased investment creates new career paths in local areas, driving growth in towns like yours.
3,300 Jobs Total MOD-Supported Direct Industry, Civilian and Military Jobs across the North East, 2023/24
Partnerships with regional leaders
The government will work with regional and local leaders to support defence industry growth across the UK. In England, Mayoral Strategic Authorities will develop 10-year Local Growth Plans showing how they’ll use their powers and funding to boost regional growth. Regular discussions between government and these authorities will ensure local plans align with national policies to help the defence sector succeed locally.
This partnership combines national strategy with local expertise to create the best conditions for the defence industry to thrive throughout the UK.
Strengths in manufacturing, engineering, fabrication and digital technologies with a growing data, innovation and cybersecurity focus.
Strong advanced material electronics sector, with Octric Semiconductors and a Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult.
A fast-growing space cluster, soon to be supported by the new North East Space Skills and Technology Centre.