BAE systems set to cut 371 jobs in Lancashire

Global aerospace giant, BAE Systems, is set to cut 371 jobs in Lancashire as it reduces production of its Typhoon fighter jet.

The majority of the cuts will take place at its Samlesbury site, with 343 potential job losses, as well as 28 at their site at Warton. One of the county's largest employers, it employs around 13,000 people across the two sites.

The company has begun consultation with the Trade Unions and employee representatives and is committed to exploring opportunities to mitigate these potential job losses and believes that most of these potential job losses can be addressed through redeployment, further release of temporary labour and a targeted voluntary redundancy programme.

“We understand this announcement creates uncertainty and concern, but we believe that taking action now will put us in the best possible position to secure future work and help ensure we have a long-term sustainable business.”

“There has been a slowdown in Typhoon orders as international competition has increased, and the costs consequently need to be cut. “It’s a slowdown, but not a significant change in strategy. Long term, we expect overall growth.”