ANT Industries, based in Atherstone, Warwickshire, is celebrating a record order book in 2024, buoyed by news of a £975 million investment in the UK aerospace industry announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The funding, spread over the next five years, will support innovation, create highly skilled jobs, and bolster an industry that remains a cornerstone of Britain’s advanced manufacturing sector.
Shaun Rowley, Managing Director of ANT Industries, a key manufacturer of aero-engine and gas turbine components, praised the announcement as a welcome boost for an industry facing significant macroeconomic challenges.
“The UK aerospace sector has always been a global leader in cutting-edge technology, and this investment is a vital recognition of its importance to our economy and communities,” Rowley said. “At ANT Industries, we’re proud to be part of this world-class ecosystem, the sector has faced a myriad of unprecedented challenges so investment in innovation for our sector is much welcomed .”
The extension of the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) Programme will support advancements in modern aircraft engines and other critical aerospace technologies. The initiative is set to benefit key hubs like Derby, Filton, and Broughton while delivering ripple effects across the nation, including Warwickshire.
Rowley stated that while the sector is navigating challenges such as inflationary pressures, supply chain disruptions, and fluctuating energy costs, business leaders need to remain optimistic “This year, we’ve seen record orders at ANT Industries—a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the UK aerospace industry, we have achieved this in spite of everything that has been going on and we have been hoping this hard work is reciprocated centrally in some support. Any government support like this is essential to sustaining that momentum and ensuring companies like ours can continue to deliver cutting-edge solutions for the global market.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed the sentiment, calling the UK aerospace industry “truly world-class” and highlighting its role in delivering growth and opportunity.
For ANT Industries, the investment signals immediate benefits and also long-term vision for sustainable growth in the UK aerospace sector. “It’s time to double down on innovation, collaboration, and skills development now” Rowley added. “We’re looking forward to contributing to the next generation of aerospace technologies that will define the future of flight.”