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Fears for Red Arrows amid takeover trend

Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images

Concerns in Westminster are growing about the impact that a string of recent takeovers will have on Britain’s sovereign capability. In recent weeks deals have been agreed by foreign firms to take over two leading UK defence manufacturers – Meggitt and Ultra – despite doubts about the impact such moves will have on the UK’s manufacturing ability. There are fears that it could mean that the next generation of aircraft for the iconic Red Arrows will not be built here in Britain.

Coventry-based Meggitt supplies wheels and brakes for fighter jets used by the Royal Air Force and is the subject of two bids from American firms Parker Hannifin and TransDigm for £6.3 billion and £7 billion respectively. Ultra meanwhile supported coalition forces in Afghanistan and faces a £2.7 billion bid from Cobham, owned by the US private equity house Advent. Already Cobham has acknowledged it could sell Ultra’s forensics and energy businesses, while ‘limited numbers’ of jobs may be lost.

The Red Arrows are due to upgrade their fleet in the next few years, having flown their current Hawk aircraft since 1979. 

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Steerpike

Steerpike is The Spectator's gossip columnist, serving up the latest tittle tattle from Westminster and beyond. Email tips to steerpike@spectator.co.uk or message @MrSteerpike

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