Photo courtesy of SaabSaab UK celebrated the official opening of its new ‘state of the art’, three-building campus last week. The site is developing, manufacturing, and supporting Saab’s radar systems and market-leading Seaeye underwater robotics portfolio. This includes the 3-D multi-mission radar, Giraffe 1X, and the all-electric Seaeye SR20 subsea remotely-operated vehicle.
The opening marks the conclusion of an investment pledged by Saab in 2023. The site supports up to 400 jobs, provides local opportunities for apprenticeships and enhances the UK's sovereign radar and underwater robotics manufacturing capabilities, serving both domestic customers and international export markets, with capacity for further growth.
Saab’s new campus is expected to significantly benefit the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD). The site is a centre of excellence ready to meet future customer radar requirements and servicing, in addition to supporting in-service radars operated by the UK Armed Forces; the Giraffe 1X, Giraffe AMB air defence radars, and TAIPAN (Arthur) artillery locating radars.
Micael Johansson, president and CEO of Saab, said: “This new campus is testament to Saab’s growth in the UK, reinforcing our long-term commitment to the UK’s defence. Thanks to our investment here we will deliver innovative technologies and products for our customers. We are pleased to have the Secretary of State for Business and Trade join us today to mark this important occasion and to underline the important relationship between Saab and the UK.”
Jonathan Reynolds MP, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, said: “Following the Government’s pledge to go further and faster to grow the economy, this is another vote of confidence in the UK, our world-class defence sector, and our upcoming industrial strategy. Saab’s investment in Hampshire has brought a major boost to local communities with hundreds of new highly paid, highly skilled jobs, and is exactly the sort of growth our pro-business, pro-growth industrial strategy will support.”
John Healey MP, Secretary of State for Defence, concluded: “This major investment has demonstrated how defence is an engine for growth. Saab’s new facility strengthens support for the radars that help protect the British Armed Forces, having created highly skilled jobs while driving innovation. With promising apprenticeship opportunities, this site is helping to drive the jobs of the future – ensuring the next generation has the expertise to keep the UK at the forefront of defence technology.”