The UK government has increased defence spending to support jobs, skills and growth in Plymouth.
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.
Thanks to government investment in HM Naval Base Devonport and Babcock’s Devonport Royal Dockyard, Plymouth’s local economy is set to be boosted by the spending.
This means more local jobs and a secure future for Plymouth as a centre of excellence in marine autonomy and advanced manufacturing.
Recent developments include Helsing’s resilience factory, bringing AI-driven defence analytics to the city and creating demand for skilled workers across all levels.
The University will benefit from a share of the £250 million UK Defence Growth Deal, driving innovation through a new Advanced Marine Technology Hub. Meanwhile, City College Plymouth is progressing with a bid to become one of five new Defence Technical Excellence Colleges.
This investment will create unprecedented opportunities for the University and everyone living and working in our city
says University of Plymouth Vice-Chancellor, Professor Richard Davies.
Whether you’re starting an apprenticeship or studying for a degree, Plymouth’s education providers and defence employers are working together to help you build the skills needed for a career in cutting-edge fields like autonomy and cybersecurity.
96,600 Jobs Total MOD-Supported Direct Industry, Civilian and Military Jobs across the South West, 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.
High-Growth-Potential Frontier Industry Clusters:
R&D strengths in cutting-edge maritime technologies and drones, at SMART Sound Plymouth, University of Plymouth and the Centre for Marine Autonomy, Maritime Cyber Security and Technology.
A key defence ecosystem built around Plymouth & South Devon Freeport and the largest naval base in Western Europe.