UK: Defence giant BAE Systems confirmed today that it is cutting almost 3,000 jobs at sites across the country, mainly in its military aircraft division.

The firm ended days of speculation by giving details of a huge redundancy programme, saying it needed to maintain competitiveness.

The biggest job cuts will be at sites in Warton and Samlesbury in Lancashire and at Brough in East Yorkshire, although jobs will also be lost at the firm’s head office in Hampshire.

Ian King, chief executive of BAE Systems, said: “Our customers are facing huge pressures on their defence budgets and affordability has become an increasing priority. Our business needs to rise to this challenge to maintain its competitiveness and ensure its long-term future.”