Additional hundreds of jobs will be brought to companies that provide services to the military as the government boosts its defence expenditure, as stated by business leaders.
Emma Baker, the policy head at the defense industry organization ADS, mentioned that they "expect a significant increase in work" from government contracts.
Over 40,000 individuals are employed by firms in the defense industry within the South West region, with many of these businesses depending on contracts from the Ministry of Defence to sustain their operations.
A large number of people are assembling at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) in Gloucestershire, the largest military aviation event globally.
"We're still waiting for the orders to arrive," said Seb Greene, CEO of the Bristol-based Broadway Group.
We are sure it is on its way, but these matters often require time to reach us.
One of the main attractions at RIAT is the helicopters from Yeovil, frequently moving horizontally.
At the renowned Somerset helicopter plant, they pay close attention when the Prime Minister speaks aboutincreasing defence spending.
More than 3,000 employees are employed at the historic facility, which is currently managed by Leonardo Helicopters.
And they are awaiting the final approval on a£1 billion agreement to provide for the Royal Air ForceWith more than 20 new helicopters. The agreement is expected to "generate or maintain over 3,000 jobs" in Yeovil, as stated by the company.
No other companies are still competing for the contract, but the agreement is currently delayed due to the government's evaluation of defense expenditures and purchasing processes.
In the meantime, hundreds of additional young apprentices and graduate engineers are being hired.
I absolutely adore it," AJ McKenzie said to me, smiling. "I wouldn't alter a single thing about it.
Raised in Yeovil, the 20-year-old began an apprenticeship last year.
He is currently part of the team responsible for maintaining the gearboxes of helicopters operated by the Royal Navy and RAF.
Disassembling items and reassembling them, there's a lot of 'why isn't this functioning?', instead of simply 'it's not working, throw it away'. It's very rewarding.
Not every task in this helicopter factory requires a wrench and engine oil. Hundreds of employees are engaged in advanced digital engineering, such as Chrissy Smith. She has been working here for 36 years, starting as a technical assistant.
"Each day is unique," she remarked.
Now, she is showcasing the 'Digital Twin', a high-performance simulator that enables pilots to familiarize themselves with the controls in the comfort and safety of an indoor environment.
She fully understands that her team's efforts are crucial in saving the lives of aircrew during severe conditions.
"I feel honored to be involved in a project that will safeguard and ensure the country's security, which is why I am proud to be employed by Leonardo," she stated.
For the time being, Chrissy, AJ, and thousands of others are left waiting as the Ministry of Defence reviews the request for their new helicopter.
Leaders in the defense sector are assured that once it arrives, the MoD review will bring additional tasks.
"We expect a significant amount of additional work," said Emma Baker, representing the trade association ADS.
It is evident that the government recognizes the need for significant efforts to enhance industrial capabilities.
And it's not only the UK. Throughout Europe, military expenditures are also increasing.
Hundreds of small companies are also anticipating the government's choice on what to purchase in greater quantities.
In a modest, unremarkable trading area in East Bristol, you might easily pass by Broadway Group without noticing.
Enter the facility, and you'll find engineers producing highly precise components for jet engines. These parts will also be utilized by RAF pilots flying at supersonic speeds. Exceptional accuracy is the norm.
Seb Greene, the CEO of Broadway, stated that defense contracts helped sustain the company during the pandemic.
Commercial orders suddenly dropped dramatically," he explained. "Everyone stopped flying. However, defense-related work continued, importantly.
The company has expanded from 80 employees to 180 due to military contracts, and currently employs four apprentices annually, along with one graduate.
Nanditha Gampala pursued a Master's in Business, and subsequently secured a position at Broadway Group. She emphasized that careers in the industry are not limited to engineers.
The aerospace industry offers opportunities for individuals from various backgrounds and with different skills, showcasing a wide range of possibilities. Therefore, avoid limiting yourself, as there truly is something suitable for everyone in this field.
Should the MoD eventually release its list of new equipment for the enlarged military forces, numerous contracts are likely to be awarded to companies such as this.
In the South West of England, 130 companies are involved in military projects, providing jobs for 44,000 individuals. For the time being, they are awaiting decisions from Whitehall.
Such matters require time," remarked Seb Greene, with a wry smile. "However, we are certain the agreements will arrive, and we'll be able to allocate resources toward additional technology and, most importantly, more personnel.
