Portsmouth’s defence sector is getting a major boost, with local MPs Stephen Morgan and Amanda Martin rallying behind the Labour Government’s Strategic Defence Review. The city, a historic hub for maritime power, is now at the forefront of a new era in UK defence—one that promises high-tech innovation, job growth, and a stronger industrial base.
The visit of Tan Dhesi, Chair of the Defence Select Committee, underscores the national significance of Portsmouth’s role. Beyond the ceremonial tour of SubSea Craft, a local defence SME, this visit signals a strategic realignment: the government is betting big on Portsmouth as a driver of defence innovation and economic growth. SubSea Craft, with its cutting-edge maritime technology, is a prime example of how SMEs are stepping up to meet the demands of modern defence. The company’s rapid expansion—growing to over 150 employees in recent years—shows that defence investment doesn’t just secure the nation; it creates jobs and fuels regional economies.
The £2.2 billion defence funding increase announced earlier this year is more than just a financial injection—it’s a vote of confidence in Portsmouth’s ability to deliver. The upgrades to HMNB Portsmouth aren’t just about maintaining infrastructure; they’re about ensuring the city remains a cornerstone of Royal Navy operations for decades to come. This isn’t just about steel and ships; it’s about securing a future where Portsmouth remains a global leader in defence.
The roundtable hosted by Morgan and Martin, bringing together local businesses and trade unions, highlights a collaborative approach to defence policy. This isn’t top-down governance—it’s a grassroots effort to ensure Portsmouth’s voice is heard in Whitehall. The MPs’ commitment to working with local stakeholders ensures that defence spending translates into real-world benefits for the city.
SubSea Craft’s Deputy Director, Andrew Sturman, put it bluntly: “We are grateful for the support of our local MPs, who recognise the importance of a strong defence SME industrial base.” This isn’t just about one company; it’s about building an ecosystem where innovation thrives and jobs are created. The government’s focus on increasing SME involvement in defence is a game-changer, ensuring that smaller contractors like SubSea Craft aren’t left on the sidelines.
Amanda Martin’s emphasis on Portsmouth’s historical role in defence is a reminder that this isn’t just about the future—it’s about honouring the city’s legacy while propelling it forward. The Labour Government’s commitment to the biggest defence spending increase since the Cold War isn’t just about budgets; it’s about ensuring that cities like Portsmouth remain at the heart of national security.
As Tan Dhesi noted, Portsmouth has two strong advocates in Morgan and Martin. Their work isn’t just about securing funding—it’s about ensuring that Portsmouth’s defence sector continues to grow, innovate, and deliver for the nation. This is more than a visit; it’s the start of a new chapter for Portsmouth’s defence industry.