The Defence Minister has hailed Telford as the heart of UK defence manufacturing during a visit to key facilities producing next-generation tanks and armoured vehicles, underscoring the government’s commitment to economic growth and national security.
Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, The Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP, toured the Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) facility in Telford, highlighting the pivotal role the town plays in equipping the British Army with cutting-edge armoured fighting vehicles.
Driving UK defence excellence
RBSL’s Hadley Castle Works Factory is at the forefront of producing the Challenger 3, the Army’s most advanced tank to date, designed for modern warfare. Under a £950M contract, the programme has created nearly 300 highly skilled jobs at RBSL, including engineers and technicians, and supports an additional 450 roles across the UK supply chain.
Minister Eagle said: “Telford is at the heart of UK defence, equipping our Armed Forces with 21st-century capabilities. Investments like the Challenger 3 programme not only enhance national security but also create skilled jobs and drive local economic growth. The Defence Industrial Strategy ensures we remain a global leader in innovation.”
The £5Bn investment in the British Army includes the procurement of 148 Challenger 3 tanks and 623 Boxer armoured vehicles, both expected to enter service by the end of the decade.
Economic Impact and Skilled Jobs
The RBSL facility is central to Telford’s economy, supporting over 1,500 skilled jobs and nearly 40 apprentices and graduates within the local community. Programmes like Challenger 3 and Boxer have also spurred £169M in R&D investment and contributed to the upskilling of over 12,000 recruits, with 1,400 enrolled in higher education schemes.
Will Gibby, Managing Director of RBSL, said: “RBSL is proud to deliver sovereign capability for the UK while investing in the workforce of tomorrow. Programmes like Challenger 3 and Boxer demonstrate the value of UK-based manufacturing and the expertise we bring to defence.”
Strengthening Defence Logistics
During her visit, Minister Eagle also toured the £83M Defence Fulfilment Centre (DFC) at MOD Donnington, a state-of-the-art logistics hub operated by DE&S in partnership with Leidos. The facility plays a vital role in delivering critical equipment and supplies to the UK Armed Forces worldwide, enhancing operational readiness and resilience.
Simon Hutchings, VP of Leidos’ Logistics Commodities Services Transformation Programme, said: “The DFC exemplifies innovation in defence logistics, supporting warfighters with adaptive, agile supply chains. Since 2015, the LCST programme has delivered over £1 billion worth of products to the Armed Forces, ensuring mission-critical readiness.”
Commitment to Growth and Resilience
The upcoming Defence Industrial Strategy will further solidify the UK’s position as a global leader in defence manufacturing. The strategy emphasizes long-term partnerships with industry, fostering economic growth, regional prosperity, and a resilient supply chain.
Nick Taylor, Head of Combat Vehicles at DE&S, praised the collaboration between the MOD, RBSL, and the Army: “This partnership has re-established armoured vehicle manufacturing in Telford, ensuring the UK remains at the cutting edge of defence capability.”
Telford’s role in defence manufacturing demonstrates the government’s Plan for Change in action, safeguarding national security while creating high-value, skilled jobs and driving innovation. The local defence industry continues to contribute significantly to the UK economy, stimulating growth and providing a vital boost to the Armed Forces’ operational capabilities.
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BAE Challenger 3 Defence Industrial Strategy Rheinmentall supply chain
Post written by: Vicky Maggiani
Vicky has worked in media for over 20 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.
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