Overview
- The Ministry of Defence published a Planned Procurement Note inviting industry proposals for onshore energetics production focused on nine priority materials, including propellants, explosives and pyrotechnics.
- Engineering design work for the first factory has been commissioned and feasibility studies are funded, with construction on the initial site expected to begin within the next year.
- At least 13 locations have been identified across the UK, with options such as Grangemouth, Teesside and Milford Haven under consideration, and no final site decisions yet taken.
- The government plans at least six new munitions and energetics plants this parliament, targeting at least 1,000 jobs and a return to high‑volume production for the first time in nearly two decades.
- The Commons Defence Committee says the UK lacks a plan to defend the homeland and relies heavily on US capabilities, as ministers also announce two new drone factories opening in Plymouth and Swindon this week.