UK defence export orders rose to £14 billion in 2018, with sales to Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar and other Middle Eastern countries making up nearly 80% of that figure.

The figures show Britain remains the second largest defence exporter based on a 10-year average of orders.

Orders rose by £5 billion, making 2018 the biggest year since records began. This was helped by BAE Systems’ multi-billion-pound order for 24 Typhoon fighter jets from Qatar.

Security exports stood at £5.2 billion in 2018, with cyber security exports the largest component at £2.1 billion in value, up from £1.8 billion the previous year.

ADS chief executive Paul Everitt said: “The UK’s defence and security industry is a world leader, trusted to deliver innovative and advanced equipment to the UK Armed Forces and our international partners.

“Rising defence export orders to £14 billion in 2018 shows the demand for UK defence equipment, support and services around the world.

“The success of our defence industry makes an important contribution to our national prosperity, delivering 135,000 jobs in the UK in this high value sector.”

ADS Group

www.adsgroup.co.uk

Michael Tyrrell Author Michael Tyrrell Digital Coordinator

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