The UK aerospace sector is set to receive a significant boost, with the Prime Minister announcing a £975 million investment over the next five years to support innovation, create highly skilled jobs, and maintain the nation’s lead in cutting-edge aviation technology.
This funding extension for the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) Programme is aimed at bolstering key aerospace hubs in regions like Broughton, Filton, and Derby. The initiative seeks to enhance the UK’s leadership in wings and engine manufacturing while supporting the development of zero-emission flight technologies.
Bidding for project funding will open in January 2025, with work expected to commence by autumn.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, visiting Wales for the first time since the Budget, highlighted the industry’s importance, stating, “From modern aircraft engines to helicopters, the UK’s aerospace industry is truly world-class. By accelerating our investment, we unlock the tech of the future and take a crucial step in delivering growth and opportunity across the country.”
Wales, home to one of the world’s largest aerospace clusters employing over 20,000 people, has been a focal point of this initiative. The Prime Minister also announced £49 million worth of aerospace projects in Wales, recognising its pivotal role in designing and assembling around half of the world’s large civil aircraft wings.
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds emphasised the sector’s economic impact, stating, “Our world-class aerospace sector added almost £40 billion to the economy last year. Backing the sector with this funding ensures the UK continues to pioneer new technologies while delivering economic growth felt across the country.”
The investment also aligns with the government’s broader Industrial Strategy, supporting net-zero ambitions and reinforcing the aerospace industry’s critical role in defence.
Airbus UK Chairman John Harrison welcomed the announcement, noting, “The commitment of £975 million offers certainty for sustainable aviation investment and highly skilled jobs, delivering on the UK’s R&D and growth plan.”
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Am I the only one who thinks the latest GCAP rendering looks like a stealthy Buccaneer?
Nope. I see it as well. Let’s hope it is as “buccaneering” as the original. I once saw them do a low level sweep at about 200 feet, if that. Awesome.
The picture heading the article is not the latest and no, it does not look like a Buccaneer.
Really what is needed is a new tranche typhoon order of 40 jets and a medium rotor order of 30-40 rotors ( in the UK) that will secure the UK sovereign capacity ready for the next generation of aircraft and give the armed forces what is needed.
Recent reports say only upcoming jet orders are the 20 or so F35 and NMH is a dumpster fire
It beggars belief that in a country of supposedly intelligent and well educated people, the words ” net zero” can have any place in a defence requirement specification. CO2 is a beneficial life giving gas which is already at a dangerously low level in our atmosphere.
Peanuts