BAE Systems Invests £220 Million in High-Tech Expansion of Rochester Aerospace Facility, Boosting Medway Economy and Jobs

BAE Systems Invests £220 Million in High-Tech Expansion of Rochester Aerospace Facility, Boosting Medway Economy and Jobs

(IN BRIEF) BAE Systems is investing £220 million to revamp its Rochester facility in Kent, creating a 32,000-square-meter state-of-the-art manufacturing site that will support advanced aerospace technologies and enhance production capabilities. This upgrade, expected to be completed by 2025, will not only improve operational efficiency and sustainability but also generate 300 new jobs over five years. The investment is seen as a strong boost to Medway’s economy and workforce, with local leaders welcoming the project as an opportunity to attract further business growth and talent to the area. This Rochester expansion follows other major investments by BAE Systems across the UK, including upgrades in Glasgow and the munitions sector.

(PRESS RELEASE) FARNBOROUGH, 30-Oct-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — BAE Systems is advancing its commitment to high-tech manufacturing in the UK with a substantial £220 million investment aimed at transforming its Rochester facility in Kent. This major renovation will create a cutting-edge, 32,000-square-metre factory designed to house manufacturing, engineering, and office spaces within a cohesive and modern work environment. Enhancements will also include upgraded utilities, expanded parking, and comprehensive office refurbishments.

Currently employing 1,600 skilled professionals in Rochester, BAE Systems’ Electronic Systems business in the UK specializes in developing advanced aerospace technologies, including head-up displays, helmet-mounted displays, and flight control systems for both civil and military aircraft worldwide. The site also serves as a pivotal support center, providing year-round repair services for commercial airliners.

By expanding and modernizing its facilities, BAE Systems aims to boost operational efficiency and sustainability, enabling the creation of 300 new jobs over the next five years. Dave Banks, Director of BAE Systems’ Rochester Business Centre, highlighted the importance of this workforce expansion: “Our skilled workforce is essential in delivering crucial aerospace technologies. This significant investment will allow us to attract additional talent to the Medway area and meet the needs of customers who rely on our products for mission-critical operations.”

This redevelopment represents a considerable investment in Medway, which has been home to aviation technology production for over a century. Preparations for the facility’s overhaul are already underway, with the primary redevelopment slated to begin in 2025.

Local leaders, including Councillor Vince Maple, Medway Council’s Leader, have expressed strong support for BAE Systems’ expansion, viewing it as a positive economic boost for the region. “As Medway’s largest private sector employer, BAE Systems’ commitment is a testament to our area’s attractiveness for business growth,” said Maple. “This investment will generate more skilled employment, foster local talent development, and strengthen the regional economy.”

This initiative follows BAE Systems’ recent investments across the UK, including a £300 million shipbuilding upgrade in Glasgow and over £200 million towards advancing munitions facilities to meet increasing demands. Through these projects, BAE Systems continues to focus on research, skills development, supply chain growth, and community support across the UK.

About BAE Systems
At BAE Systems, our advanced defence technology protects people and national security, and keeps critical information and infrastructure secure. We search for new ways to provide our customers with a competitive edge across the air, maritime, land, space and cyber domains. We employ a skilled workforce of around 100,000 people in more than 40 countries, and work closely with local partners to support economic development by transferring knowledge, skills and technology.

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Nicole Gable
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SOURCE: BAE Systems