Plymouth named National Defence Growth Area in landmark strategy

Plymouth has been named one of five key national defence growth areas in the UK Defence Industrial Strategy announced last night.

A team of city organisations that form Team Plymouth, formerly Growth Alliance Plymouth, have today warmly welcomed the landmark designation that marks a transformative moment for our city and region, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for economic development, innovation and community prosperity.

Backed by a £250 million UK-wide investment, this landmark designation marks a pivotal moment for the city, opening up access to new opportunities that can shift the dial on Plymouth’s economic trajectory and unlock long-term prosperity for local communities and future generations.

The newly launched Team Plymouth will strengthen collaboration between key organisations, foster innovation and create high-quality jobs. This strategic partnership positions Plymouth to lead in defence, marine autonomy, and advanced manufacturing, securing its place at the forefront of national resilience and regional renewal.

The announcement builds on a series of recent major developments, including Plymouth’s designation as the National Centre for Marine Autonomy, a £350 million investment by defence tech firm Helsing, Babcock’s expansion into Sherford, with a new Integrated Logistics Hub and Advanced Manufacturing Base and the confirmation of Plymouth and South Devon Freeport as a Defence Strategic Investment Zone.

The Ministry of Defence’s £4.4 billion investment into HM Naval Base Devonport and Babcock’s Devonport Royal Dockyard is supporting the next phase of the Royal Navy’s submarine programme and the Continuous at Sea Deterrent (CASD), with operations extending through to at least 2070.

The Defence Growth Deal investment in Plymouth will support a wide range of initiatives designed to build long-term capability and prosperity, including:

• Strengthening local skills initiatives, with a focus on STEM outreach and training in fields such as electrical engineering, renewable energy systems, nuclear operations, and autonomy.
• Driving innovation through the Advanced Marine Technology Hub at the University of Plymouth, supporting dual-use capability development, marine science and critical national infrastructure.
• Investing in local infrastructure to support the wider defence ecosystem.

Further details on specific funding allocations and interventions will be announced in due course.

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