The South West is a powerhouse of innovation, fuelling the UK’s next generation of industrial capabilities. With a thriving aerospace ecosystem that spans sustainable technologies, uncrewed systems, eVTOL, and cutting-edge aircraft, this region is at the forefront of...
Defence
Needles and Pins Aerospace Nominated for MOD Quality Award 2024
11 Nov
Needles and Pins Aerospace, a minority-owned SME, has demonstrated significant improvements and tangible benefits through strategic innovation, continuous learning, and adherence to best practices. The primary purpose of Needles and Pins Aerospace is to excel in the...
New DASA Themed Competition – PYRAMID
6 Nov
The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) is pleased to launch a new Themed Competition called PYRAMID for avionics and mission systems. Run on behalf of Air Command – Rapid Capabilities Office, this competition seeks proposals that can develop new, or adapt...
Autumn Budget 2024: What does it mean for the South West Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing sectors?
4 Nov
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves MP, delivered the Autumn Budget “Fixing Foundations to Deliver Change” to the House of Commons on 30 October. Aerospace, Defence, and Advanced Manufacturing investment was secured through £24 billion-plus of funds. ...
UK Government considers financial hurdles in Advanced Manufacturing; WEAF advocates for robust regional reporting mechanisms
4 Nov
The Department for Business & Trade (DBT) is requesting feedback on the challenges facing UK advanced manufacturing companies in accessing long-term growth capital. Responses need to be received by 23:59 on Tuesday 26th November. WEAF calls for UK Government to...
Growth Sector Series: Skills Overview in the South West
31 Oct
The skills shortage challenge facing the aerospace and advanced manufacturing sectors is ubiquitous throughout the UK, Europe, and the US. The Covid-19 pandemic catalysed an era of early retirements. When this is combined with ongoing retention challenges and...
Growth Sector Series: Defence Overview in the South West
24 Oct
The South West region is home to the UK’s largest aerospace cluster, featuring an extensive range of industries, capabilities, facilities and skills, and remains the second largest in Europe. Invest Bristol + Bath highlights that the aerospace and advanced...
ATI Hub – Upcoming Events
22 Oct
The ATI Hub is a space for innovators to connect, access expertise and collaborate. The ATI Hub offers remote and in-person events plus access to online resources. You can connect with organisations and build knowledge. Download the upcoming events here: ATI Hub...
Gala Dinner Charity: The Water Lily Project
22 Oct
The Water Lily Project The headline sponsor of WEAF’s Annual Gala Dinner & Awards 2024, Beagle Aircraft, has chosen to support the Water Lily Project – a percentage of ticket sales will be donated to this worthy charity. The Water Lily Project is a Christian...
RARUK: Automation for Everyone Technology Showcase
21 Oct
Automation for Everyone Technology Showcase - South West Event Agenda 9:00 am – 9:30 am: Welcome, registrations, coffee and pastries 9:30 am – 11:00 am: Presentations from RARUK Automation, SICK Sensor Intelligence, Cambrian Robotics, Robotiq and Woodrow Scientific...
Demystifying the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy
17 Oct
Demystifying the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy through a South West Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing lens Download as PDF here: Demystifying the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy - WEAF Invest 2035: the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy is a green paper...
Celebrating Leadership Award
16 Oct
The Celebrating Leadership Award is open to all. This recognition awards exceptional individuals within the aerospace, defence, and space community in the South West. WEAF is excited to announce the opportunity to put forward extraordinary leaders within our...