Yorkshire mayors launch defence cluster

Yorkshire’s mayors have joined forces to launch a defence and security cluster aimed at securing new investment and growth opportunities.

The Yorkshire Regional Defence & Security Cluster has been unveiled in Wakefield by David Skaith, mayor of York and North Yorkshire; Tracy Brabin, mayor of West Yorkshire; Oliver Coppard, mayor of South Yorkshire; and Luke Campbell, mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire.

The new member-led cluster aims to position Yorkshire as a leading player in the UK defence sector by connecting regional businesses with national and international opportunities.

Drawing on Yorkshire’s strengths in aerospace, advanced manufacturing and autonomous systems, the cluster will create closer links between businesses, universities and the public sector. 

By building a connected regional ecosystem, it aims to help organisations access funding, navigate defence procurement opportunities and bring new innovations to market.

The cluster will also act as a bridge between global defence opportunities and Yorkshire’s network of SMEs, manufacturers, technology firms and academic institutions.

David Skaith, mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: “The launch of this cluster is a milestone moment for Yorkshire as we bring together the unique strengths of every corner of God’s own county.

“By uniting our world-class science and tech expertise with the massive industrial and maritime capabilities of our neighbours, we are forging a formidable Yorkshire alliance.

“This is how we drive growth with purpose while supporting our small businesses to scale. 

“At a time when there is so much uncertainty in the world, it is vital that Yorkshire steps up to deliver the cutting-edge innovation needed to keep our nation secure.”

Tracy Brabin, mayor of West Yorkshire, added: “This is a major moment for Yorkshire, and a powerful statement of our intent to boost our world-class manufacturing and engineering sector, and harness it to bolster the UK defence and security sector.

“With the largest manufacturing workforce in the North and world-leading businesses, West Yorkshire has the skills and industrial heritage we need to supply our armed forces with the most cutting-edge technologies.

“By coming together as mayors, we’ll provide the knowledge and strengths of our regions, to boost growth, jobs and contribute to the defence and security of the UK in this age of uncertainty.”

Membership will be free for Yorkshire-based businesses, providing access to Ministry of Defence programmes, tenders and supply chain partnerships.

Managed through Yorkshire’s combined authorities, the initiative has been created to ensure local business needs remain at the centre of its strategy.

Its launch comes as the UK Government increases its focus on defence as a driver of economic growth, with the cluster aiming to help Yorkshire secure a greater share of future investment while strengthening the region’s reputation as a centre for defence, security and advanced manufacturing.

Oliver Coppard, mayor of South Yorkshire, added: “Yorkshire should be at the heart of our nation’s defence and security, building on our proud industrial heritage and our strengths in advanced manufacturing and engineering to protect our country.

“Here in South Yorkshire we’re already seeing what’s possible. 

“There are now high-quality jobs, supporting established businesses to grow, and new opportunities for start-ups and local supply chains.

“By working together across Yorkshire, we will bring those strengths together for the UK’s defence and security - backing our industries, creating more good jobs, and building a bigger, better economy for our communities.”

Luke Campbell, mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire, added: “This is about making better use of the strengths we already have across Yorkshire. 

“The cluster brings together businesses, universities and local government so we can better understand what's needed and how we can support national defence and security.

“Hull and East Yorkshire is ready to play its part. 

“From Leconfield and the University of Hull to our ports, supply chains and industrial businesses, we have assets that matter to UK defence and resilience – this cluster can help connect them to the right opportunities.”

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