Another year of growth for UK aerospace and defence industries

Both industries saw a rise in turnover and productivity continues to outpace national levels by a considerable margin. The strong figures are a reflection of growing global demand with UK companies well-placed to compete and grow.

The data comes ahead of the Farnborough International Airshow. This global business event is expected to bring a record number of international customers to the UK including the largest ever presence from the US and China. The airshow is the opportunity to showcase the world-class innovation, engineering and manufacturing capabilities of UK industry.

UK aerospace outlook figures:

• Employment rose to 128,300 and there is an increase in apprentices to 4,100


• Turnover is up by £1.9 billion, to £31.1 billion


• The Aerospace industry exported goods to the value of £27 billion; Europe, North America and the Middle East remain the three largest export markets.

UK Defence Outlook Figures:

• In 2015, the UK defence industry directly employed 142,000 people, and indirectly supported 111,000 jobs


• Turnover is up by £0.2 billion, to £24 billion in 2014 and productivity has grown by 18% over the past five years


• Exports were £8.5 billion in 2014, with an average value of £7.7 billion between 2010 - 2014.

Paul Everitt, CEO of ADS Group said: “The Farnborough International Airshow is a platform to showcase the strength of UK industries to global customers. The show will be an important opportunity for the government to signal that our country remains open for business and committed to creating the best possible environment for world-leading industries.

“The UK’s Aerospace and Defence industries are increasing their contribution to the UK economy and helping to meet increasing global demand. This success has been underpinned by Government’s modern approach to industrial strategies.

“Through the Aerospace Growth Partnership (AGP) and the Defence Growth Partnership (DGP), industry and Government are working together to ensure the UK is well placed for future growth opportunities. Investment in skills, technology and the competitiveness of the UK supply base is making a difference.”

www.adsgroup.org.uk