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Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to visit Wales today as the government unveils a £975 million investment to strengthen the UK aerospace industry.

The funding, spread over five years, aims to support innovation, create thousands of skilled jobs, and maintain the UK’s leadership in cutting-edge aviation technology.

In a boost for aerospace centres in places like Broughton, Filton and Derby, the Government has extended the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) Programme.

The extension will speed up innovation, create job opportunities and support an industry that is a source of pride for communities across Britain.

The Prime Minister will highlight the £49 million allocated to aerospace projects in Wales, reinforcing the region’s pivotal role in the sector.

Airbus Broughton, known for its advanced wing manufacturing, will be a key beneficiary of this investment.

The initiative, part of the ATI Programme extension, is expected to drive innovation in zero-emission flight and advanced manufacturing. It will contribute to the UK’s Net Zero goals and economic growth targets.

Speaking about the investment, Mr Starmer emphasised the aerospace sector’s importance to the UK economy and its communities.

He said: “From modern aircraft engines to helicopters, the UK’s aerospace industry is truly world-class.

By accelerating our investment, we will unlock the tech of the future and take a crucial step forward in our mission to deliver growth and opportunity across our country.”

Welsh Aerospace Projects Get £49m Boost

As part of the announcement, £49 million has been allocated to aerospace projects in Wales, home to one of the largest aerospace clusters globally.

The South West of England and Wales together design and assemble nearly half of the world’s large civil aircraft wings.

First Minister Eluned Morgan welcomed the funding, saying: “Wales is a cornerstone of the UK’s aerospace industry, with over 20,000 people employed here in high-quality, skilled jobs in the Aerospace and Defence sectors. I welcome today’s news, another in a succession of job announcements for Wales this autumn.”

Driving Sustainability and Innovation

The aerospace sector plays a critical role in the UK’s Industrial Strategy and global efforts to meet Net Zero targets.

The funding will support technologies that reduce emissions, ensuring the UK remains at the forefront of sustainable aviation.

Bidding for the funds will open in January, with projects expected to begin in the autumn.

The initiative will also support the UK’s defence capabilities, with advancements in aviation technology benefiting the Royal Navy and RAF.

John Harrison, Chairman of Airbus UK, praised the government’s commitment. He said: “The £975m investment offers certainty for long-term sustainable aviation investment and highly skilled jobs, delivering on the UK’s R&D and growth plan.”

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds added: “Backing the sector with this funding will ensure the UK can continue to pioneer new technologies, all while delivering the economic growth that will be felt in communities across the country.”

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