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Saab Strengthens United Kingdom’s Defense Capabilities with Opening of New Facility.
On February 4, 2025, Saab UK officially inaugurated its new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Fareham, Hampshire. The three-building campus, dedicated to the development, manufacturing, and support of Saab's radar systems and Seaeye underwater robotics, was opened by Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds MP, Secretary of State for Industry and Trade.
Illustrative image of a SAAB factory. (Picture source: SAAB)
This new site marks Saab’s continued growth and investment in the UK. The facility, which employs up to 400 people, will produce renowned radar technologies such as the 3D multi-mission radar Giraffe 1X, as well as the fully electric Seaeye SR20 subsea remotely operated vehicle. The opening of the campus represents the completion of the investment Saab committed to in 2023, highlighting its dedication to strengthening the UK’s sovereign manufacturing capabilities in radar and underwater robotics. Additionally, the site will contribute to both the domestic market and international export demands, with the potential for future expansion.
The new site is expected to play a key role in supporting the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD), particularly in enhancing the country’s radar capabilities. Saab’s radar systems, such as the Giraffe 1X and the Giraffe AMB air defence radars, as well as the TAIPAN (Arthur) artillery locating radars, will be serviced and supported at this location, ensuring that the UK Armed Forces are equipped with advanced, reliable technologies. The strategic focus on radar technologies positions this facility as a centre of excellence ready to meet current and future customer requirements.
Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, highlighted the importance of the facility’s inauguration: "This new campus is a testament to Saab’s growth in the UK, reinforcing our long-term commitment to the UK’s defence. Thanks to our investment here, we will deliver innovative technologies and products for our customers. We are pleased to have the Secretary of State for Industry and Trade with us today to mark this important event and to underline the important relationship between Saab and the UK."
Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds MP expressed his confidence in Saab’s investment, linking it to the broader industrial strategy of the UK government: "Following the government’s commitment to go further and faster to grow the economy, this is another vote of confidence in the UK, our world-class defence sector, and our upcoming industrial strategy. Saab’s investment in Hampshire has provided a major boost to local communities with hundreds of new, well-paid, skilled jobs, and it is exactly the type of growth that our pro-business, pro-growth industrial strategy will support."
The factory's opening also received support from the Secretary of State for Defence, Rt Hon John Healey MP, who emphasized the role of defence investments in economic growth: "This major investment has demonstrated how defence is an engine for growth. Saab’s new facility strengthens the support for the radars that help protect our Armed Forces, creating highly skilled jobs while fostering innovation. With promising apprenticeship opportunities, this site is helping to prepare the jobs of tomorrow – ensuring that the next generation has the expertise to keep the UK at the forefront of defence technology."
The establishment of Saab’s new manufacturing campus in Fareham underscores the company’s role in the UK’s defence sector, positioning it as a key player in advancing radar and underwater robotics technologies while generating significant economic benefits for the local community.