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Delivering
for Scotland

UK Defence: A Cornerstone of Scottish Growth

Scotland plays a pivotal role in the UK’s defence capabilities, serving as a vital hub for military excellence, technological innovation, and economic growth.

The strategic presence of UK defence across Scotland creates thousands of high-quality jobs, drives industrial development, and helps secure the nation against evolving threats.

Powering the Scottish Economy

Defence makes a substantial economic contribution to Scotland, with the Ministry of Defence spending £2.1 billion with Scottish industry and commerce annually, including £32 million with small and medium-sized enterprises.

This significant investment supports approximately 11,200 industry jobs across Scotland, creating sustainable employment in communities throughout the nation.

The defence sector offers high-quality career opportunities for Scottish workers with competitive salaries and excellent prospects for professional development.

With over 10,000 UK regular forces and 4,050 civilian personnel stationed in Scotland, defence establishments form the backbone of many local communities.

Strategic Industry Presence

Scotland hosts world-leading defence companies that provide cutting-edge capabilities to the UK Armed Forces:

  • BAE Systems maintains a significant presence in Scotland, primarily through shipbuilding in Glasgow, alongside electronics development near Dunfermline, aircraft engineering support in Prestwick, and munitions testing in Bishopton.
  • Leonardo, based in Edinburgh, develops sophisticated surveillance radars and countermeasure systems that protect UK military assets worldwide.
  • Babcock International operates from the Forth, building Type 31 frigates and supporting the Queen Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carriers – the largest warships ever constructed for the Royal Navy.
  • Boeing Defence UK supports the operation of P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft at RAF Lossiemouth, providing crucial surveillance capabilities for the UK’s maritime security.
  • Thales SA delivers advanced electro-optical systems from its Glasgow base, enhancing the UK’s defence technology advantage.

Key Defence Sites

Scotland hosts numerous strategic defence establishments, including:

  • HMNB Clyde – Home to the UK’s nuclear deterrent and submarine service
  • RAF Lossiemouth – A major air defence base and home to Typhoon fighter jets and P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft
  • Kinloss Barracks – Supporting specialist Army units
  • Leuchars Station – A significant Army facility
  • Fort George – Historic Army garrison

Innovation and Research Excellence

Scotland has established itself as a hub for academic research and development in the maritime domain.

Institutions like Strathclyde University collaborate with defence partners on future platform development and advanced systems, ensuring Scotland remains at the forefront of defence innovation.

DXC Technology operates a Cyber Threat Analysis Centre near Rosyth, contributing to the UK’s digital defence capabilities and creating specialised technology jobs.

Commitment to Growth

As part of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, the UK Government has committed to ensuring defence serves as an engine for growth across the entire United Kingdom.

This includes investing £6 billion in munitions during this Parliament and committing to continuous submarine production – developments that will continue to benefit Scottish industry and workers.

The defence sector’s substantial presence in Scotland demonstrates the value of the UK union in providing security, prosperity, and opportunity for Scottish communities.

Through continued investment and partnership, UK defence will remain a cornerstone of Scottish industrial strength and economic security for generations to come.