22nd Jul 2026 10:17
(Alliance News) - New Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said the UK's Armed Forces must boost their use of artificial intelligence.
On a visit to Hampshire's Farnborough Airshow, the Cabinet minister described a new deal with BAE Systems PLC as a "ground-breaking moment for UK defence".
Streeting said: "We must match the speed at which our adversaries are developing AI technology."
He made the comments as BAE Systems announced the Ministry of Defence has given it a contract extension worth GBP708 million to continue developing a next generation combat aircraft as part of the Global Combat Air Programme.
Richard Berthon, the MoD's director of future combat air, said: "This GBP708 million investment demonstrates the UK's continued commitment to maintaining a world-leading combat air capability and a freedom of action which ensures our Armed Forces remain equipped to meet future threats."
Declan Holland, future combat air systems managing director of BAE Systems' air sector, said: "Our contract builds on the strong progress already achieved across the UK's defence ecosystem, bringing together industry and academic partners to accelerate next-generation technologies.
"Through this work, we're delivering tangible outcomes for the Global Combat Air Programme by strengthening UK capability, supporting high-value innovation and contributing to long-term economic growth."
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds is also visiting Farnborough Airshow on Wednesday after he announced a GBP600 million package to back British aerospace.
It includes GBP500 million for aerospace research and technology projects for greener air travel, and GBP100 million for a supply chain fund to help meet demand.
BAE Systems shares rose 1.0% to 1,927.50 pence each on Wednesday morning in London.
By Neil Lancefield, Press Association Transport Correspondent
Press Association: News
source: PA
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