The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has today placed contracts with 22 companies to fund studies into potential sites for new factories producing energetic materials. These materials, including explosives, propellants, and pyrotechnics, are essential components for weapons such as small arms, artillery, and missiles.
Each company, including small and medium-sized businesses across England, Scotland, and Wales, will receive up to £300,000. The studies will focus on identifying sites suitable for building at least six new munitions factories.
Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard MP stated that this investment aims to restore Britain's manufacturing capabilities and could create at least 1,000 high-skilled jobs in the future. The government previously identified at least 13 potential sites in November 2025.
Companies are expected to submit their findings by the end of September 2026, with construction of new factories planned to begin by the end of 2026. Following the feasibility studies, top proposals may be offered Front End Engineering Design (FEED) contracts worth up to £5 million each.