UK NEWS

Defence Agreement

ADS, the trade association representing the UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space sectors, and the Society of Japanese Aerospace Companies (SJAC), have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen co-operation between the UK and Japanese defence industries. The agreement establishes a framework for closer collaboration between ADS and SJAC, supporting the development of joint initiatives and creating new opportunities for businesses operating across both markets.

More information www.adsgroup.org.uk

Farnborough Delivers Landmark Week For Aerospace

Farnborough International Airshow 2026 convened the world of aerospace, defence and space to shape the future of flight. The show welcomed 141,580 trade and public visitors, a notable show-on-show increase of 41% and nearly double 2022’s attendance, providing the stage for commercial deals worth over $84.7bn. Across five days, leaders from government, manufacturers, investors, start-ups, academia, media and future talent from 136 countries gathered at the birthplace of British Aviation. Farnborough International Airshow will return to the industry calendar on 17-21 July 2028.

More information www.farnboroughairshow.com

Major Contract Funds New Nuclear Deterrent Submarines

The Government has awarded a new £5.9bn contract to BAE Systems funding critical work to progress the nation’s Dreadnought Class nuclear deterrent submarines towards entry into service. Work on the first Dreadnought now continues apace at BAE Systems’ shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, ready for delivery to the Royal Navy in the early 2030s.

The four-boat Dreadnought Class programme will replace the existing Barrow-built Vanguard fleet, ensuring continuation of the UK’s critical ‘Continuous at Sea Deterrent’ capability. They will be the biggest, most powerful and technically advanced submarines ever built for the Royal Navy. The BAE Systems contract forms part of a wider £8.4bn package approved by parliament for the MoD.

More information www.baesystems.com

Group Rhodes Investment Will Aid Large Press Builds

Group Rhodes, a West Yorkshire-based manufacturer of heavy industrial presses and forming equipment, is investing £400,000 in new plant and facilities, strengthening its capability to design, manufacture and deliver large-scale press projects for customers around the world. The investment, which consists of new assembly pits and material handling equipment, forms part of Group Rhodes’ ongoing commitment to its international customer base and enhances the company’s ability to handle large and complex projects with greater precision, capacity and efficiency.

More information www.grouprhodes.co.uk

MACH 2028 Floor Space Already Half Sold

General sale for MACH 2028 is now open, with more than half of the exhibition floorplan already sold following a surge in requests for space. Over 13,000 m² of stand space has been snapped up nearly two years before the UK’s premier manufacturing technology showcase returns to the NEC Birmingham on 3-7 April 2028. Companies are being urged to book immediately to ensure the best range of stand locations.

The rush follows the success of MACH 2026, which attracted 26,000 attendees and more than 500 exhibitors. Staged across five halls, official post-show figures confirm that exhibitors reported overwhelmingly positive results, including record enquiries and sales. Potential exhibitors are encouraged to book before September 2026 to qualify for the early bird discount.

More information www.tinyurl.com/3ecfpjsb