UK’S LARGEST DEFENCE COMPANY STRENGTHENS NORTH OF ENGLAND’S SKILLS BASE AS IT HITS RECORD NUMBER OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN TRAINING

As BAE Systems announces that applications for its 2026 apprenticeship intake are open, the Company has reached a record achievement with more than 6,800 young people in training across its UK operations. This figure, which includes approximately 5,100 apprentices and 1,700 graduates, underlines the Company’s commitment to developing the next generation of British talent.

In 2026, more than 1,400 new apprentices and graduates will join BAE Systems across North of England with roles across Cumbria, Lancashire and Humberside.

People in the region will have the chance to work on flagship programmes critical to national security, including the Global Combat Air Programme as well as the UK’s next-generation SSN-AUKUS submarines. In total, the Company plans to recruit almost 2,300 apprentices, graduates and undergraduates across the UK.

Since 2020, the Company has recruited more than 10,000 apprentices and graduates and invested over £1 billion in education and skills, strengthening the nation’s industrial skills base while contributing to local and national economic development.

Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive, BAE Systems, said:

“The record number of apprentices and graduates in our business working on some of the world’s most important defence programmes highlights the exceptional talent of young people in this country and our commitment to developing the skills vital for our nation’s future security. With more than 60 programmes across the UK, we’re proud to offer opportunities for meaningful and rewarding careers, helping to protect those who protect us.”

Luke Pollard MP, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, said:

“Defence is leading the way as an engine for growth creating good jobs across the UK. These record-breaking figures from BAE Systems show the next generation of 5,100 apprentices and 1,700 graduates will be at the forefront of building the warships, fighter jets and munitions to help our Armed Forces keep Britain secure at home and strong abroad.

“Building on our Strategic Defence Review the government is committed to the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War, driving defence as an engine for growth by supporting businesses big and small and creating opportunities for young people across the UK.”

BAE Systems’ investment has enabled the creation of three multi-million-pound skills academies in Barrow, Glasgow and Samlesbury over recent years, which upskill thousands of employees each year to maintain the advanced STEM capabilities critical to the UK’s sovereign defence.

The Company also has a range of partnerships with colleges, universities and social mobility champions, like the Movement to Work charity.

BAE Systems’ investment has enabled the creation of three multi-million-pound skills academies in Barrow, Glasgow and Samlesbury, which upskill thousands of employees each year to maintain the advanced STEM capabilities critical to the UK’s sovereign defence.

The Company also has a range of partnerships with colleges, universities and social mobility champions, like Movement to Work.

Cheyenne, 29, third year Steelwork Apprentice at BAE Systems’ Submarines business, said:

“I joined BAE Systems to challenge myself and take on something new. The steelworker apprenticeship stood out because of its variety and hands-on experience and it’s been exactly what I hoped for.

“Knowing I’m part of a business that offers stability and long-term opportunities gives me confidence about the future for me and my family.

“Working on a programme that’s critical to the UK’s defence is something I’m very proud of. Seeing submarines at different stages of build really shows the importance of my role and the contribution we’re making to protect our nation.”

With more than 60 programmes available across the Company in the UK, there are opportunities at every level, from steelwork and engineering to cyber security, software development, finance and project management.

BAE Systems is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and recruiting people from a wide range of backgrounds, which is vital to develop a future skills and talent pipeline. This year, almost 30% of the Company’s new apprentice starters were female, compared to 17% in the wider UK engineering and technology sector.

Applications for the Company’s 2026 apprenticeship intake are now open. This window will close when a sufficient number of applications has been received, no later than the end of February 2026. There are multiple graduate intakes throughout the year, including January, April, July, August and September.

Find out more and apply: careers.baesystems.com/earlycareers

Early careers opportunities are just one part of the Company’s wider recruitment drive. BAE Systems is currently recruiting thousands of skilled workers from steelworkers to data scientists across the UK.

Find out more and apply: careers.baesystems.com/experiencedprofessionals