AEROSPACE SECTOR

FAC STRATEGIC SECTOR

AEROSPACE MANUFACTURING

SOUTH EAST

The South East of England stands out as a premier center for advanced aerospace manufacturing, featuring an impressive array of elite engineering firms focused on aerospace and defense. This region plays a vital role in the UK's aerospace sector, which achieved a turnover of £27 billion in 2023. Fueled by innovation, the industry leads the way in breakthroughs involving composite materials, augmented reality, and intelligent automation.

The South East also benefits from its proximity to major airports, fostering research and development in aerospace technologies. The UK's aerospace industry overall added £10.9 billion to the economy in 2023 and employs over 108,000 people.


The South East of England is home to several prominent aerospace businesses, including:


Reaction Engines: Based in Abingdon-on-Thames, this company is known for its innovative SABRE engine technology, which aims to revolutionize space exploration.


BAE Systems: Headquartered in Guildford, Surrey, BAE Systems is a global leader in aerospace and defence technologies.


FAC Aerospace: This organization supports a wide range of aerospace-related businesses in the region, focusing on advanced manufacturing and space technologies.


The South East of England's aerospace sector has strong international connections, driven by its advanced manufacturing capabilities and strategic location. Here are some highlights:


Global Exports: The UK aerospace industry, with the South East as a key contributor, exports approximately 90% of its products, making it a significant player in the global market.


Strategic Location: With major airports like Heathrow, Gatwick, and Farnborough, the South East facilitates easy access to international markets and fosters global partnerships.


Collaborative Innovation: The region's aerospace companies engage in joint ventures and partnerships with international firms, focusing on cutting-edge technologies like composites, augmented reality, and intelligent automation.


These connections position the South East as a vital hub in the global aerospace network.


Farnborough plays a pivotal role in aerospace and advanced manufacturing, serving as a hub for innovation and industry collaboration. The Farnborough International Airshow is a key event that showcases cutting-edge technologies and fosters global partnerships. The region is home to advanced manufacturing facilities and research centers that focus on automation, sustainable aviation, and next-generation aerospace solutions.


Looking ahead, the future of aerospace in Farnborough and the surrounding region is promising. With increasing demand for aircraft and advancements in technologies like eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing), the industry is set to grow significantly. Initiatives like the OMNIFACTORY project aim to revolutionize manufacturing processes, making them more efficient and adaptable. Farnborough's strategic location and strong industry presence ensure it remains a cornerstone of the UK's aerospace sector.



Aerospace & Advanced Manufacturing Members

      Page supported by:

      Nature's Symphony

      Breathtaking colors of our planet

      NEW DEFENCE TECHNOLOGIES

      Meeting the challenges of national and international security.

      AIR MOBILITY

      FAC explores the potential and opportunity from new forms of transportation.

      UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES

      Discovering the opportunities for new aerial platforms.

      RENEWABLES

      Addressing the greatest challenge of our age.

      NEW FUELS

      A Key Program in FAC's strategic mission goals for 2025 and beyond.

      COMMERCIAL SPACE

      Supporting our world-class space sector.

      NEXT GENERATION AIRCRAFT

      Collaborating with the leading UK players developing next-gen aircraft capability.