UK defence exports up 62%
New figures published by UK Trade & Investment's Defence and Security Organisation (UKTI DSO) show that British defence exports rose by 62% in 2012 – the largest increase for five years.
Orders contributing to the strong results included Typhoon and Hawk aircraft. The Typhoon programme alone supports an estimated 8,600 jobs in the UK, across companies including BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce and Selex-Galileo and their supply chains – with an estimated further 1,500 jobs dependent on export opportunities.
The results mean the UK maintains its position as the second most successful defence exporter after the United States.
Business Minister Michael Fallon said: "Defence exports are helping to safeguard much needed high quality jobs in UK industry at a difficult time for the economy.
"These export results reflect the importance of the high technology sector and its contribution to advanced manufacturing trade. The UK's defence industrial base is rich in innovation, largely thanks to the vital contribution of smaller firms."
