BAE Systems Announces £25 Million Investment for New Artillery Factory

Britain’s largest defence company, BAE Systems, has disclosed plans for a £25 million investment in Sheffield, which includes the creation of 50 new employment positions. The firm stated its intention to establish a new 94,000 sq ft (8,732 sq m) facility dedicated to artillery development and production in the city by 2025. This location, according to the company, will house an advanced factory specialising in artillery expertise. John Borton, the managing director for BAE Systems’ Weapons Systems UK, commented that the investment holds considerable importance and is expected to contribute to the cultivation of a highly-skilled workforce. He further stated: “Our aim is to deliver long-term artillery capabilities for the UK, which will safeguard, sustain and grow a critical, specialised British industrial capability as well as provide important opportunities for exports.” Clive Betts, the Labour Member of Parliament representing Sheffield South East, remarked that this investment would guarantee Sheffield’s ongoing crucial contribution to both economic prosperity and national security. BAE Systems indicated that the new facility in Sheffield is designed to provide manufacturing capacity for its M777 lightweight towed howitzer, a weapon currently deployed by military forces in the US, Canada, Australia, and India.