How Defence Spending is Reshaping UK Engineering and Manufacturing
The UK’s increased defence spending is creating a wave of opportunity across engineering and manufacturing. With rising global tensions, government investment is not only strengthening national security but also accelerating innovation and job creation in high-compliance sectors.
Employment Solutions has been supporting the defence sector for over 20 years, placing skilled professionals into secure, complex environments. We understand the pace, pressures, and compliance demands that come with hiring in this space.
Defence as an Economic Growth Driver
Recent government announcements mark the biggest sustained increase in defence funding since the Cold War:
£2.2bn uplift in 2025–26
Total spend reaching 2.36% of GDP, with a goal of 2.5% by 2027
£5bn+ additional investment since the Autumn Budget
Spending is focused on cutting-edge defence technologies – including AI, drones, autonomous systems, and directed energy weapons – creating urgent hiring needs across key technical roles.
What This Means for Hiring and Talent
For employers, it’s time to reassess workforce strategy:
Align recruitment to next-gen technologies
Prioritise security-cleared or clearance-eligible professionals
Use contract staffing to scale quickly and stay agile
For candidates, this is a chance to work with some of the UK’s most advanced systems. Roles in highest demand include:
Mechanical & Quality Engineers
NDT Inspectors
Platers, Fabricators & Pipefitters
Security-cleared contract professionals
Where Employment Solutions Adds Value
Whether you’re filling urgent roles or building long-term teams, Employment Solutions can help. Our capabilities include:
Fast mobilisation of SQEP talent for regulated environments
Access to skilled contractors for flexible, compliant workforce planning
Deep defence sector knowledge to match candidates beyond the CV
As the sector modernises, people will remain at the heart of successful delivery. We help you find not just the right skills, but the right people, because in defence, expertly engineered careers make the difference. You can find out more about Employment Solutions here.
Let’s Build the Future of Defence Engineering Together
Whether you’re recruiting to support upcoming defence projects or looking to take your next step in a high-security engineering role, we’re here to help. Get in touch today to find out more.
