ADS has launched a manifesto urging the next Scottish Government to expand support for aerospace, defence, security and space industries.
The trade body, which represents more than 1,600 companies across the UK, called for a partnership between government and industry to tackle skills shortages, strengthen national security and boost economic growth.
Its manifesto for the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary elections outlines five key recommendations: expanding skills provision, demonstrating hydrogen and battery-electric flight, investing in defence manufacturing, improving productivity through technology adoption, and maximising Scotland’s export potential.
According to ADS, Scotland’s aerospace, defence, security and space sectors already contribute £3.7 billion to the economy and support around 37,000 jobs. The organisation argues that, with appropriate government backing, these industries could drive significant further growth.
Warrick Malcolm, Director of ADS Scotland, was quoted in the release as saying “for too long, the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors have been under supported, underappreciated and overly stigmatised – in spite of delivering almost 37,000 jobs.” He added that Scotland is well placed to become a global leader in defence and advanced manufacturing if political and financial support is aligned with its industrial capabilities.
The manifesto highlights that Scotland’s defence and aerospace workforce is nearly 50% more productive than the national average. It also calls on the government to reform apprenticeship routes, invest in national security infrastructure, and incentivise private investment to strengthen the country’s industrial resilience.
ADS Scotland represents around 160 companies, including shipbuilders, defence suppliers, and space technology firms. The group argues that strategic investment in these high-value sectors would not only bolster Scotland’s economy but enhance the UK’s overall security and industrial base.
It rather depends in the case of the present Scottish government what matters more, jobs or identity.
We know what the SNP stands for. Pseudo Marxists.