The Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson has visited with defence company Rubb in Gateshead, where he outlined the benefits of defence to local jobs and industry.
The company, who manufacture innovative defence structures and hangars for the military sector, welcomed Mr Williamson to its Gateshead base where he met with staff and toured the facility.
Rubb has been a long-standing supplier to the UK Armed Forces, going back to 1979 when the RAF tasked them to supply military buildings for the world-famous Red Arrows.
The company now has over 50 local employees and currently benefits from a £6.86 million contract with the MOD.
As outlined in former Defence Minister Philip Dunne’s report on the contribution defence makes to British prosperity, the North East plays an important role in UK defence, providing over 3,000 regulars and reserves to the Armed Forces, supporting over 700 industry jobs, and is renowned for its defence manufacturing industry.
Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “A strong defence industry throughout the four corners of the UK is crucial to our economy as well as our national security, and Rubb UK are an outstanding example of our world-leading homegrown engineers in the North East.
“Their workers are part of some 700 jobs we support in this area, and their pride in making the homes for our world-class jets and aircraft is clear to see.
“With this region benefitting from £100m of defence investment and in line for more business, it is playing a key role in ensuring our Armed Forces have what they need to protect our country from intensifying threats.”
image © Rubb Building Systems
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