The United Kingdom’s defence industry recorded a banner year for military exports in two thousand twenty-five, with strong international demand driving one of the most robust performances in recent history.

Government assessments released at the start of the new year indicate that overseas orders for British defence equipment rose sharply, reflecting sustained interest in UK technology, training and support services amid heightened global security concerns.

Officials said export growth was underpinned by a combination of large multi-year contracts, repeat orders from long-standing partners and new agreements with emerging markets.

Air, naval and land systems all contributed to the rise, alongside high-value support packages, maintenance services and defence training.

The breadth of sales highlighted the depth of the UK’s defence industrial base and its ability to deliver complex, integrated capabilities.

Ministers described the performance as a clear demonstration of the sector’s competitiveness and reliability, noting that defence exports support tens of thousands of skilled jobs across the country.

They also emphasised that export decisions are subject to licensing controls and are aligned with the UK’s strategic and foreign policy objectives.

Industry leaders said the strong results reflected years of sustained investment in research, development and international partnerships.

With global defence spending remaining elevated, the government expects export momentum to continue into two thousand twenty-six, reinforcing the UK’s position as one of the world’s leading defence exporters.