Telford to Create 400 Jobs with New Defence Facility

A new defense facility is set to be established in Telford, on the former GKN Sankey site, bringing up to 400 skilled jobs to the area. This development is a joint venture between Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) and the UK Ministry of Defence. The facility will focus on manufacturing advanced artillery gun barrels, marking the first time in over a decade that such equipment will be produced domestically in the UK. This project is expected to generate around £400 million for the local economy over the next ten years.

The decision to build the facility in Telford highlights the town’s longstanding role in the UK’s defense sector. Telford has a rich history of military manufacturing, from producing Spitfires during World War II to modern armoured vehicles. The new facility will complement RBSL’s existing operations in the area, which already produces the Challenger 3 tank and the Boxer armoured vehicle. The expansion is set to further solidify Telford’s position as a vital hub for defense manufacturing in the UK.

Local leaders have strongly supported the project, recognizing its potential for job creation and economic growth. Councillor Lee Carter, Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, emphasized the value of the skilled local workforce and Telford’s strategic location in attracting such investments. This initiative not only boosts national defense capabilities but also contributes to the long-term economic development of Telford and surrounding regions, further strengthening the UK’s defense industry.