Swindon council is aiming to attract new jobs and investment in the aerospace and defence sector.
Swindon Borough Council’s inward investment team attended the Farnborough International Airshow to highlight the town’s strengths in aerospace, defence, and advanced manufacturing.
The team met with UK and international businesses to promote Swindon as a destination for investment, expansion and innovation, focusing on its skilled workforce, strategic location and growing cluster of engineering firms.
The council presented a Defence Sector Proposition outlining why companies should consider setting up or expanding in the area.
Gary Sumner, leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: "Farnborough provides a unique opportunity to put Swindon in front of companies from across the globe and demonstrate why our borough is such an attractive place to invest.
"We want more businesses to recognise what those already operating here have discovered and that Swindon offers the location, talent, infrastructure and ambition needed to support long-term growth.
"Our focus is firmly on attracting new investment, creating high-quality jobs for residents and ensuring Swindon continues to strengthen its reputation as a centre for advanced manufacturing, aerospace and defence."
The delegation also met with organisations already active in Swindon, including TEKEVER, iCOMAT and UK Research and Innovation.
TEKEVER, which develops unmanned aerial vehicles, unveiled its new AR6 family of heavy-lift autonomous systems at the airshow – confirming that production will take place at its Swindon manufacturing hub.
The council said this highlighted Swindon’s growing role in supporting advanced defence and aerospace manufacturing.
Much of the team’s work focused on raising Swindon’s profile with companies that may not have previously considered the town as an investment location.
Conversations focused on Swindon’s strengths and the opportunities available to businesses looking to establish or expand their presence in the UK.
Following the airshow, the council’s inward investment team will continue discussions with prospective investors and industry leaders.
The aim is to build on connections made in Farnborough to secure new opportunities, jobs and investment for the town.
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