The South West unveils its defence plan, highlighting job creation and economic growth in this strategically vital region.
The plan highlights the South West’s defense strength. Defense in the region brings in £2.8 billion and supports over 61,000 jobs across Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, and Somerset.
The area has big military sites and factories. Its research helps the government’s industrial plans. The plan wants to grow manufacturing here and improve cybersecurity and AI.
It aims to build a stronger workforce and increase international sales. Global issues are making defense more vital now. The plan asks for more funding for defense.
This would make the UK safer overall. Devonport is Europe’s largest naval base. The area has great aerospace and cyber tech. Big companies like Babcock operate there, as do BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Atlas Elektronik.
The Defence BattleLab and iAero facility help develop new defense ideas. The government sees defense as key for national security and the economy.
The Great South West is strategically vital. The plan provides a future vision and suggests that government and industry must back the South West to strengthen security and grow the economy. They want the UK to lead in defense.