Local MP Lucy Allan has welcomed news that BAE Systems and leading supplier of military vehicles and systems, Rheinmetall have signed an agreement to create a joint UK based military vehicle design, manufacturing and support business.
The Joint Venture will sustain over 400 jobs in the UK and will be headquartered at BAE Systems’ facility in Telford preserving key technology and engineering skills.
In addition to managing and growing the existing combat vehicle support business, the intent is for the new Joint Venture to play a major role in the delivery of the British Army’s new Mechanised Infantry Vehicle (MIV) and other strategic combat vehicles programmes.
This new partnership will help sustain and strengthen the UK’s industrial capability for land defence systems, develop export opportunities and contribute towards the UK’s overall prosperity.
Ms Allan has previously visited the BAE Systems site last spring where she was treated to a ride in a Warrior armoured vehicle as she learnt about the huge growth opportunities at the site.
Lucy Allan said:
“I welcome this announcement of inward investment which will secure skilled jobs for people in Telford.
“I would like to congratulate everyone involved in negotiating this new Joint Venture which shows that we are leading the way in military defence.”