UK-EU Defence Pact Creates 700 Jobs and Boosts Industry

A new UK-EU security and defense agreement is set to create 700 jobs at Thales in Belfast, thanks to a £1.6 billion deal announced in March 2025. The contract will see the production of over 5,000 lightweight multi-role missiles (LMMs) for Ukraine, marking the largest deal ever received by Thales in Belfast. This project is expected to triple the facility’s production capacity and significantly boost job numbers across the UK supply chain.

In addition to the job creation, the agreement grants the UK access to the EU’s €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) fund. This will allow UK companies to collaborate on joint military projects with EU nations and contribute to Europe’s broader defense efforts. However, the pact stipulates that at least 65% of a project’s value must come from companies based in the EU, European Economic Area, or Ukraine, further strengthening ties between the UK and its European partners.

This agreement represents a key milestone in post-Brexit UK-EU relations, enhancing defense cooperation and strengthening the UK’s defense industry. Beyond the immediate economic impact, the creation of 700 jobs at Thales underscores the long-term benefits of such partnerships, contributing to both economic growth and stability within the UK’s defense sector.