A Boost for Local Jobs as Typhoon Exports Take Flight

With hundreds of South Ribble residents employed at BAE Systems in Samlesbury and Warton, where the world-class Typhoon fighter jet is assembled, it’s fantastic to see a major step forward in the aircraft’s export to Türkiye.

Last week, UK Defence Secretary John Healey and Turkish Defence Minister Yaşar Güler signed a Memorandum of Understanding, strengthening the UK’s defence partnership with Türkiye. This multimillion-pound agreement not only deepens international collaboration but also helps safeguard thousands of skilled jobs along the UK’s production line.

I had the privilege of seeing the Typhoon up close at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) last week, and even had the chance to sit in the cockpit! Watching these incredible jets in action was a real highlight. The precision and skill of the pilots were nothing short of awe-inspiring, thankfully, they left the flying to the professionals!