Andrew has today urged the Government to stop ducking the question and provide a clear commitment to ordering additional Eurofighter Typhoon jets and progressing with the next-generation Tempest programme at BAE Systems.
Following responses from Defence Minister Maria Eagle to his Written Parliamentary Questions, Snowden expressed frustration over the lack of clarity from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) regarding future aircraft procurement.
“The Government has been clear that defence investment is vital for both national security and economic growth, but when it comes to taking decisive action, they are hesitating,” Snowden said. “The Prime Minister’s recent announcement of increased defence spending must translate into concrete support for British manufacturers—starting with a clear commitment to ordering new Typhoons and moving forward with Tempest.”
In response to the Fylde MP’s question on prioritising British manufacturers in defence infrastructure contracts, the MoD reiterated its commitment to maxmising jobs, growth, skills, and innovation in the UK but stopped short of offering specific assurances on upcoming orders.
Likewise, when asked whether additional Typhoon jets would be ordered in light of the Prime Minister’s recent Defence and Security Statement, the Goxcvernment avoided a direct answer, stating only that purchases would be set out “in the usual way.”
Andrew continued: “This lack of certainty does nothing to reassure the thousands of highly skilled workers at BAE Systems in Warton and across the UK’s defence industry. The Eurofighter Typhoon and the next-generation Tempest are critical to our national security, and we cannot afford delays or dithering. The Government must confirm these orders and give our defence sector the backing it needs.”
Andrew’s call for action reflects growing concern that failure to commit to these programmes could put British jobs and the country’s defence capabilities at risk. He will continue to urge ministers to provide a definitive answer on the future of these aircraft projects and ensure the UK remains at the forefront of global combat air capabilities.
