Military affairs are evolving faster than ever and our technology must keep up with it, said British Defense Secretary John Healy, quoted by PA Media and DPA.
During a speech in Cardiff, Healy stressed the importance of developing new unmanned weapons systems, such as drones. He announced a Welsh Defence Industry Development Agreement, which aims to make it easier for local small businesses to secure contracts.
“The result will be more opportunities for young people in Wales, more jobs for Welsh workers, more investment in Welsh businesses and more profitable Welsh-made technology for our armed forces,“ said Healy.
“We have the best sailors, pilots and ground troops, but the war in Ukraine reminds us of the bitter truth that armed forces are only as strong as the industry and innovation that supports them. Technology is changing the nature of war faster than ever before in history. So developing unmanned digital technologies is not just an option, it is absolutely essential for the future of our defence. We want to start the process of bringing their British manufacturing here in Wales. "To ensure that the combat readiness of our armed forces and those of our NATO allies is assured for years to come," the Defence Secretary added.
As part of the £50m deal, a new Defence Technical Excellence College is expected to open in Wales next year to train local engineers. The deal also aims to increase the range of drone testing by expanding air corridors in mid-Wales.