Global defence specialist Leonardo plans to bring 200 jobs to Newcastle city centre with the opening of a science and engineering facility.
The Rome-based firm, which employs about 49,000 worldwide, will open a base at The Spark within the city's Helix site. It will become Leonardo's eighth UK site and will focus on research and development of the €14.1bn revenue company's advanced military technology, including sensing, security and vertical lift products.
In announcing the move, the business said aimed to recruit talent from the region and connect with the North East's small and medium-sized companies - some of which are already part of its UK supply chain. As a major Ministry of Defence supplier, Leonard employs about 8,000 people in the UK, making military helicopters and technology for Royal Air Force aircraft.
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The company is involved in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP)- an initiative from the UK, Italy and Japan to produce a sixth generation fighter jet that will go into service in 2035. Leonardo said that while not all of its North East-based employees will work on site, the new base would benefit from proximity to Newcastle University, the UK National Innovation Centre for Data and the Defence Science and Technology Laboratories (Dstl).
Clive Higgins, chair and CEO of Leonardo UK, said: "The UK’s defence and aerospace industry is an engine for economic growth, prosperity and security, representing world-class research and technology and many thousands of well-paid jobs and amazing career opportunities for young people entering the workforce. Leonardo already employs over 8,000 people in the UK and our new site in Newcastle will allow us to expand even further, drawing on science and engineering skills from the North East region in order to develop the next generation of digitally-led technologies.
"With a track record in providing hundreds of quality early careers scheme places around the country each year, Leonardo’s new site in Newcastle will generate a wealth of opportunities for young people in the area. The skilled, well paid, high technology jobs that will be created by Leonardo in the North East are the kind of employment that will help address regional inequality, ensuring that the whole of Britain can enjoy a prosperous future."
Leonardo has been supported by inward investment body Invest Newcastle, part of Newcastle Gateshead Initiative. Jennifer Hartley, director of Invest Newcastle, said: "This significant investment from Leonardo represents a major boost for the city’s burgeoning defence and aerospace sector that will add millions of pounds to the local economy. This investment is testament to the strength of our eco-system, research strengths and ability to attract and retain the best talent.
"Between the 200 jobs being created by Leonardo and the Defence, Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) becoming operational on Newcastle Helix, we now have a nationally significant defence cluster that will drive further investment, innovation, and good jobs at all levels for our region’s residents. We look forward to continuing our work and support with Leonardo over the coming months to maximise the impact of this investment for local communities."
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