Jessica O'ConnorThe UK’s nuclear weapons programme has proved to be a major driver of employment and economic opportunity, with 1,500 skilled roles created in the past year at the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) in Aldermaston, Berkshire.
As part of a broader £15bn Government investment into the UK’s sovereign nuclear warhead renewal, the defence nuclear industry has strengthened the economy with high-wage jobs and long-term career paths in science, engineering, and technology.
Newly released Government figures showed that workers in the defence nuclear industry earn an average of £45,500 – 20% higher than the UK average.
The roles span engineering, science, and technical specialisms, with the AWE now employing 9,500 people, including 3,000 engineers and 1,500 scientists.
This hiring surge also reflects a doubling in the number of apprentices and graduates joining AWE, now approaching 500 in 2024/25.
Many are drawn from local communities, helping to support economic regeneration in areas historically impacted by industrial decline.
Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said: “The nuclear weapons technology delivered at AWE keeps us all safe every minute of the day. The skilled men and women working here play a fundamental role in deterring global conflict and that cannot be underestimated.
“However, our nuclear deterrent doesn’t just protect us, it also powers prosperity. From the design and development of the warhead in Aldermaston, to shipbuilding in Barrow and maintenance in Plymouth, to deployment for operations from Clyde, defence is an engine for growth.
“The Defence Nuclear Enterprise delivers on the Plan for Change by backing thousands of jobs across the country.
“Through the Strategic Defence Review we are unshakeable in our commitment to maintaining our nuclear deterrent – it is the ultimate guarantor of our national security and the security of our NATO allies.”
