BAE Systems will invest £220 million to upgrade its facilities in Rochester, Kent, according to a press release.
The site, which is home to the Company’s UK-based Electronic Systems business, will undergo significant renovation to create a new state-of-the-art factory of more than 32,000 square-meters.
BAE Systems’ 1,600 strong workforce in Rochester specializes in advanced aerospace technologies such as head-up displays, helmet-mounted displays, flight control computers and active control sticks for civil and military aircraft worldwide. The site is also part of the Electronic Systems global support service center, providing repairs to commercial airliners every day of the year.
The new facility will combine manufacturing, engineering and office space – providing a refreshed, modern and flexible working environment. The investment also includes improvements to utilities, car parking and office refurbishments across the site.
The Company expects the increased capacity provided by a more efficient and sustainable facility will enable it to create 300 jobs over the next five years.
Dave Banks, BAE Systems’ Rochester Business Centre Director: “Our skilled workforce plays a vital role in delivering products that are of the utmost importance to national security and commercial aviation. This significant investment will help us attract additional highly skilled jobs to the Medway area – ensuring that we can deliver for our customers who depend on our products to complete their missions.”
The Rochester community has been home to the development and manufacture of aviation technology for more than 100 years. Work is already underway to prepare the site for the major redevelopment which is due to start in 2025.
Councilor Vince Maple, Leader of Medway Council: “As our largest private sector employer, this is a strong vote of confidence in Medway being a great place for businesses to invest and grow from BAE Systems. As well as boosting the local economy, this investment will provide even more skilled employment opportunities for local people, help develop young talent and encourage others to base their businesses here. This is fantastic news for Medway.”
The project is the latest investment that BAE Systems is making in its UK facilities. A £300 million transformation of shipbuilding facilities is underway in Glasgow and more than £200 million is being spent on upgrading the UK munitions business to meet increased demand. The Company continues to invest in research and development, skills, national supply chains and local communities.