The British government has signed an eight-year contract worth about 9 billion British pounds with the concern “Rolls Royce“, BTA reports.
The agreement, called “Unity“ („Unity“), has three main objectives:
- Maintaining the country's nuclear deterrent;
- Preserving 4,000 jobs and creating over 1,000 new ones;
- Strengthening the British economy by stimulating highly skilled labor.
According to Defense Secretary John Healy, the investment is part of the government's efforts to strengthen Britain's defense, which serves as „insurance in a more dangerous world“.
Benefits for business and national security
Minister Healy said that this investment will:
- Give a boost to British business;
- Improve national security;
- Ensure effective spending of public funds.
According to him, the defense sector can be an “engine of growth“, contributing to the economy while ensuring the country's defense.
Political reactions and commitments
- Support and criticism: The Conservative Party, now in opposition, supported the deal, but insisted that the government keep its promise to increase defense spending to 2.5% of GDP.
- Labor commitments: The ruling Labor Party has committed to presenting a concrete plan to achieve this goal later this year. The previous Conservative government promised to achieve the target by 2030.
Strategic investment with multi-directional impact
The Rolls-Royce deal represents a key step in strengthening Britain's defence capabilities, while contributing to job creation and economic growth. It is further evidence that defence policy plays a crucial role in the national economic strategy.