BAE System’s order book hits £27bn

Defence giant BAE Systems has secured more than £27bn in orders so far this year – with more in the pipeline.

The company reported a ‘strong financial and operational performance’ in the second half of the year.

Highlights reported in its latest trading statement include the £4bn deal to supply 20 Typhoon fighter jets to Turkey, which was announced last month.

Almost 6,000 jobs directly support the Typhoon programme at BAE Systems operations in Warton and Samlesbury, where production and final assembly of each fighter jet takes place. 

In its statement BAE Systems said it it had “good visibility for long-term growth.”

The group also said that it anticipated further order agreements before the end of the year.

Charles Woodburn, BAE Systems chief executive, said: “We continue to deliver strong financial and operational performance in the second half of the year, underpinning the full-year guidance we upgraded in July.

“The recent agreement with Turkey for Typhoon aircraft and announcement by Norway in respect of Type 26 frigates demonstrate sustained global demand for our leading defence capabilities.

“These programmes not only strengthen national security but also support thousands of skilled jobs and generate significant export value for the UK economy.

“With a strong order backlog, established positions on key programmes and continued investment to support our future growth, we're confident in the outlook for our business."

In the statement, BAE said that spending increases across NATO provided a ‘very supportive backdrop for growth over the medium term’.

It added: “We expect significant opportunities across our business, including space systems, missile and air defence systems, electronic warfare, combat aircraft, combat vehicles, frigates, submarines, drones and counter drones among others.”

The trading statement was issued ahead of BAE announcing its preliminary results for 2025 next February.