Britain is set to enhance its warfighting capabilities by constructing a network of new munitions factories, marking a return to domestic production of military explosives after nearly two decades. Defence Secretary John Healey will announce the plans on Wednesday, detailing the initiative aimed at bolstering the nation’s defense infrastructure.
The government has earmarked £1.5 billion ($1.97 billion) for additional investment in munitions and related components. As part of this initiative, at least 13 potential sites have been identified for the new factories, with construction on the first facility anticipated to commence next year. These factories will produce munitions, propellants, explosives, and pyrotechnics for the British Army, as well as provide support for Ukraine.
The project is expected to create at least 1,000 new jobs. Feasibility studies have been funded to initiate high-volume production, and engineering design work for the first factory is already underway.
In a related development, two new drone factories are opening this week in southwest England. These are part of defense growth deals supported by an investment of £250 million ($328.88 million).
The Ministry of Defence is set to release a procurement note that will outline multi-year investments and detail nine key materials essential for the project.
