June 19, 2025 | Thursday | Policy
The UK’s Defence Nuclear Enterprise (DNE) continues to play a pivotal role not only in safeguarding national security but also in driving economic prosperity and regional development, according to newly released findings from a government-commissioned survey.
Underscoring its status as a vital national endeavour, the DNE supports an estimated 47,600 jobs across the UK, with this figure projected to rise to around 65,000 by 2030. The enterprise’s economic footprint spans every region of Great Britain, powered by a robust supply chain and major industry clusters in the North West (approximately 11,000 employees) and the South West (over 5,000 employees).
Working at the forefront of innovation, the defence nuclear sector comprises some of the most complex and technologically advanced programmes undertaken by the UK government. These include:
Submarine construction at BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness
Maintenance and refit operations at Babcock International in Plymouth
Nuclear reactor development at Rolls-Royce in Derby
Steel forging for submarine components at Sheffield Forgemasters
Warhead design and production at AWE in Berkshire
These capabilities not only showcase the strength of British industry, science, and engineering but also bring long-term investments to local communities and regions.
The new economic analysis, conducted by Defence Statistics and based on a 2024 industry survey, reaffirms the centrality of peace and security to sustained economic growth. As geopolitical risks intensify globally, the DNE’s deterrent role remains fundamental to national resilience and productivity.
The full economic impact report will be published later this year, offering further insight into the strategic and financial value of the UK’s defence nuclear sector.