‘Invest in our world-class technical know-how and manufacturing capabilities’ - Mayor’s plea on defence

Up to 38,000 high-value jobs could be created in the defence sector in the Midlands and billions injected into the economy over the next decade with strategic investment, according to a new prospectus launched in Parliament.

The The Midlands: Powering UK Defence Growth prospectus was unveiled at a Midlands All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) event in Westminster, hosted by Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, and Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, and sponsored by Babcock International.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves and industry minister Chris McDonald were among those who joined leading business figures and MPs from across the region to hear how the Midlands can play a leading role in delivering the UK's future defence capability.

With the Government increasing defence spending and placing greater emphasis on strengthening UK manufacturing and supply chains, the prospectus sets out the case for a Midlands Defence Growth Deal to help turn this rising national defence investment into jobs, innovation and industrial growth.

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Our message to Government is clear: invest in our world-class technical know-how and manufacturing capabilities, and we’ll help keep our country and our way of life safe.

"There are big gains to be made with billions flowing into a sector I’m backing to fire up our economy, and which will deliver thousands of the high-quality jobs and apprenticeships that I promised local people in my Growth Plan. It’s a triple win: for our communities, our economy and our national security.”

The prospectus argues that the Midlands is uniquely placed to support the UK's defence ambitions thanks to its concentration of advanced manufacturing, engineering and technology businesses. It estimates that strategic investment could generate up to £2.9 billion in additional direct GVA by 2035, while Ministry of Defence spending with Midlands small and medium-sized businesses is projected to reach £250 million a year within five years.

Nationally significant areas of defence capability where the region already has internationally recognised strengths include advanced manufacturing and supply chains; land systems and protected mobility; military aerospace; nuclear and propulsion; and cyber, digital and secure communications.

The proposed Midlands Defence Growth Deal would bring together government, industry and regional partners to boost production capacity, accelerate innovation, strengthen sovereign supply chains and develop the skilled workforce needed to meet growing demand.

The launch builds on the Midlands Defence and Security Blueprint and the work of the Midlands Defence and Security Industry Council, which are helping manufacturers, engineers and technology businesses secure new opportunities while supporting national security and creating high-quality jobs across the region.