Recognised as a leading cyber security hub, augmented by Queen’s University Belfast’s Centre for Secure Information Technologies.
Home to a concentration of innovative defence firms, including Thales, Raytheon, Spirit AeroSystems, and Harland and Wolff.
3,300 Jobs Total MOD-Supported Direct Industry, Civilian and Military Jobs in Northern Ireland, 2023/24
Partnerships with devolved leaders
The UK government is working with the Northern Irish government to boost growth in defence-related industries. It will focus on removing barriers and capitalising on opportunities in key defence areas and promising business sectors.
This partnership respects existing devolution rules – defence policy stays a national government responsibility, whilst related areas like skills training remain under local control.
By combining national strategy with local expertise, this approach aims to create optimal conditions for the defence industry to succeed throughout the UK.