The Charter, led by ADS, the UK trade body for defence, aerospace and security, has been adopted by a growing number of major British defence and aerospace companies. Its environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments include supporting the UK’s 2050 net zero target through carbon reduction initiatives, developing innovative technologies for the armed forces, and addressing national skills shortages by expanding partnerships with schools, colleges, and universities.
Signatories also pledge to promote greater diversity and inclusion across the workforce, and to strengthen the UK’s contribution to economic security. The Charter highlights the sector’s role in protecting national infrastructure, supporting armed forces, and countering cyber threats, as well as its importance to the wider economy — contributing around £15 billion annually and sustaining more than 180,000 jobs, 70 per cent of them outside London.
Tom Grundy, CEO of Hybrid Air Vehicles, said the Charter’s objectives aligned with the company’s focus on reducing emissions and promoting STEM engagement. Kevin Craven, CEO of ADS, welcomed the company’s commitment, describing the initiative as a collective effort requiring action across the supply chain.
