Britain’s defence industry is ready to provide allies with advanced warships as long as investment in skills and industrial capacity continues, according to Defence Readiness and Industry Minister Luke Pollard.
During a visit to BAE Systems’ Clyde shipyards, the minister emphasised that the future of UK defence exports depends on a strong workforce and a modernised industrial base.
He identified skills as the foundation of Britain’s defence industrial strategy, highlighting training initiatives by companies such as BAE Systems in Scotland and Rolls Royce in Derby.
Pollard explained that investment in defence skills is both a matter of national security and an economic opportunity. He argued that more young people could gain stable, well-paid careers in defence industries by acquiring specialised skills to support the armed forces and wider security sector.
Export Success Showcases British Naval Strength
The recent order of Type 26 frigates by Norway was presented as evidence of Britain’s global competitiveness in warship design and production. The agreement was described as not only a purchase of advanced anti-submarine vessels, but also a long-term partnership between Norway, the UK Government, the British armed forces and the defence industry.
Other nations are reportedly showing strong interest in British defence technology across naval, air and land sectors. Increased exports, Pollard noted, would sustain thousands of jobs across the UK while ensuring that allies have access to advanced equipment to deter and, if necessary, confront potential threats.
National Security and Investment Priorities
Pollard linked the shipbuilding programme directly to the wider security landscape. He pointed to the threats facing NATO on its eastern flank, including Russian military incursions into allied airspace and the activities of Russian spy ships off the UK coast. He also underlined the importance of strengthening resilience against cyber disruption.
The minister said that investment in defence now is essential to protect Britain and its allies in an increasingly uncertain global environment. Warships built in Scotland and other regions of the UK are positioned as a central element of this strategy, strengthening national security while driving industrial growth.
