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In May 2025, MBDA, a European defence company, announced a significant £200 million investment to expand its manufacturing site in Bolton, UK, which is expected to create 700 high-skilled jobs. This investment comes in the wake of a new Security and Defence Partnership between the UK and the EU, which is anticipated to enhance defence procurement opportunities for UK firms. The partnership is part of a broader £500 million commitment from MBDA to bolster its UK operations, aiming to double its footprint in Bolton by 2028.
The tailored solution provided by MBDA includes not only the expansion of its manufacturing capabilities but also the enhancement of its apprenticeship and STEM outreach programs, which currently support over 400 early-career professionals across the UK. This strategic move is designed to ensure a steady pipeline of skilled workers in the advanced manufacturing sector, reinforcing Greater Manchester's reputation as a hub for defence technologies and precision engineering.
Quantifiable results from this investment are expected to be substantial. The expansion will support MBDA's goal of achieving £10 billion in UK exports by 2032, solidifying the UK's position as a leader in the manufacturing and export of complex weapons systems. Additionally, the investment is projected to have a positive ripple effect on the supply chain, benefiting over 700 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that collaborate with MBDA. The initiative is also aligned with the UK government's broader Plan for Change, which aims to deliver economic growth and job creation across the country, evidenced by the recent announcement of a £2 billion increase in UK Export Finances Direct Lending capacity for defence exports.