The British Government is investing an extra £50 million into the Plymouth area, home of the U.K. National Centre for Marine Autonomy, and cutting red tape to help make drone development easier.
The U.K. Ministry of Defence yesterday (Thursday) revealed details of the cash boost, claiming: “The Plymouth Defence Growth Deal will help create hundreds of new jobs and increase investment in the region.
“The investment reinforces Plymouth as a leader in maritime autonomy, developing the technology that helps keep the U.K. safe at sea.”
The extra investment in the city, home to HMNB Devonport, will be used in part to deliver increased access to waterfront innovation labs and testing facilities.
And local colleges and universities will provide up to 60 new defence-related courses in fields including manufacturing, engineering and technology.
The government has also announced it will establish the Plymouth Marine Autonomy Trials Authority to support firms in testing and deploying maritime drones.
Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker commented: “This £50m investment will see Plymouth stay a world-leader in maritime autonomy by making it easier for its defence businesses, creating hundreds of good jobs and boosting the defence industry across the South West.”
- You can read more details on the U.K. Government website