Record high defence sales hit £20bn

DEFENCE exports hit a record high this year thanks to impressive warship and fighter jet deals struck by the government.

- BY CHRISTIAN CALGIE Senior Political Correspondent

UK industry secured more than £20billion in sales to allies in 2025, more than any year in at least 40 years.

The Ministry of Defence championed the figures as a boost for the economy and jobs across Britain.

Half of the £20bn came from Norway, which put in an order for at least five Type 26 frigates from Britain in a major snub to a French rival bid. The vessels will be used to monitor Russian submarines and protect the North Atlantic, jointly touring with British ships.