UK defence jobs rise by 26,000 as weapons manufacturing expands

UK defence-supported employment increased by 26,000 roles in 2024/25, including a 51% rise in jobs supported by defence spending in weapons and ammunition manufacturing, according to Ministry of Defence (MOD) figures.

The MOD’s latest employment estimates showed growth in defence-supported roles across the country, with the North West gaining nearly 4,000 direct jobs year-on-year and the South East more than 3,000.

Across the Armed Forces, industry and Civil Service, UK defence now comprises 462,000 roles.

Jobs associated with the manufacture of weapons, ammunition and military fighting vehicles increased by around 2,000 to 5,900 during 2024/25.

The Government said the increase reflected efforts to rebuild domestic munitions manufacturing capacity and establish an “always on” supply pipeline, allowing equipment including artillery and missiles to be produced at greater scale in the UK.

Luke Pollard, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, said: “These figures show that a rising defence budget is creating more good jobs across the UK. Defence is an engine for growth and our investments are driving reindustrialisation.

“As we increase our military readiness and capabilities we are generating good well-paid jobs nationwide.”