WORKERS across the North West are benefiting from defence investment that is backing high-quality careers throughout the Region, according to a new UK Defence Footprint booklet which highlights the positive impact of defence spending on the nations and Regions of the UK.

The latest government figures highlight that the North West received £4.8 billion in defence spending in the last year alone, directly supporting 20,100 jobs across a range of sectors. This represents £620 in defence spending per person across the Region, demonstrating the significant economic impact of the Government's defence commitments on North West communities.

This substantial investment underpins the Government's historic increase in defence spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2027, with an ambition to reach 3% in the next Parliament. The commitment reflects the Government's recognition that defence spending not only keeps the nation secure but also serves as a powerful engine for economic growth across all regions of the UK, delivering on the Plan for Change.

Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP said:- "Our record uplift in defence investment will ensure our forces have the kit they need to fight, ensuring we are secure at home and strong abroad. By making defence an engine for growth across the country and supporting the Government's Plan for Change, the defence dividend is benefitting jobs, communities and businesses throughout the North West. The Region’s submarine and aerospace excellence puts it at the heart of Britain's defences, backing thousands of skilled careers that underpin our national security.”

The North West's defence sector spans from world-leading submarine construction at BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness to advanced aerospace manufacturing facilities in Warton, Samlesbury and Bolton. The region is also currently delivering the Astute and Dreadnought submarine programmes alongside future AUKUS submarines, securing thousands of skilled engineering careers for the next decade.

The defence investment creates a ripple effect throughout the North West economy, supporting not only direct employment but also numerous supply chain businesses and local communities, demonstrating how defence spending supports entire communities through regional supply chains.