Fylde MP presses ministers to support Fylde's vital role in defence as he praises Falcoln Works at Warton
FalconWorks supports hundreds of skilled jobs across Fylde
Fylde MP Andrew Snowden has urged the Government to maintain investment in defence research and development, stating that continued support is vital to protecting skilled jobs.
He was also clear about the proud heritage in aerospace and defence in Fylde when he spoke of his praise for Falcon Works at BAE Systems in Warton.
FalconWorks is BAE Systems’ centre for advanced research and technology development in the Air Sector, based within the Enterprise Zone, focusing on accelerating the development of new capabilities during a fast moving era in modern defence in an unpredictable security environment.
Raising the issue in the House of Commons during Defence Procurement Questions, Mr Snowden highlighted FalconWorks’ work on rapidly redesigning and redeploying air systems informed by live operational experience in Ukraine.
He said: "FalconWorks is a clear example of why Fylde matters to Britain’s defence future.
"It sits at the forefront of modern air systems development, working in a world where threats and technology are changing faster than ever. The ability to learn quickly, adapt systems and redeploy capability is now essential.
"Just as important is the impact locally. FalconWorks supports hundreds of skilled jobs across Fylde and Lancashire, providing long term careers and sustaining our world leading aerospace base.
"That is why I pressed the Government to continue backing research and development as part of defence procurement, so British industry can keep pace with emerging threats and deliver the capability our Armed Forces need."
The organisation works across advanced air systems, including uncrewed technologies, and acts as a hub where ideas from across the wider Air Sector can be developed, tested and turned into operational capability.
FalconWorks is helping to expand the UK’s expertise in rapidly adapting and deploying cutting edge systems, ensuring lessons from current conflicts can be translated quickly into improved capability.
With around 2,000 employees across its UK operations and multiple sites nationwide, FalconWorks plays a significant role in both national defence strengthening Lancashire’s position as a leading centre for aerospace and defence engineering.
He asked ministers to ensure that investment in research and development is embedded within defence procurement, allowing UK firms to innovate at pace while maintaining strategic advantage.
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Responding in Parliament, Defence Minister Luke Pollard praised FalconWorks and BAE Systems for their innovation, confirming that the Government has established UK Defence Innovation with a £400 million annual budget to support new technologies and dual use capability. He also highlighted that 10 per cent of the equipment budget will be directed towards novel technologies.
Mr Snowden added: "We have a very proud heritage in aerospace and defence at Warton and across Fylde. We have the skills, the workforce and the infrastructure to continue playing a central role in Britain’s security for decades to come. As Fylde’s MP I will keep pushing for investment that backs our local industry and the people who make it a success."