Scottish Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser has expressed his delight at 100 jobs being secured in Dunfermline as part of a £317 million Ministry of Defence (MOD) contract to fit Typhoon aircraft with a radar system.
The employees at the BAE Systems plant in Dunfermline will work on the contract, which has been awarded to BAE and its contract partner company Leonardo.
Commenting, Mr Fraser, who represents the Mid Scotland and Fife region, said: “This is great news for Dunfermline, and obviously great news for the BAE Systems plant there. It will provide a major economic boost to the West Fife area and comes at a time when there are concerns over jobs elsewhere.
“The lion’s share of this contract has gone to Scottish firms. Figures published earlier this year showed MOD procurement spending in Scotland has risen to £1.76 billion and this contract once again demonstrates that defence not only plays a crucial part in the security of the UK but also contributes to Scotland’s economy through high-skilled employment and investment.”
Mr Fraser continued: “I have lodged a Motion at the Scottish Parliament congratulating BAE Systems in Dunfermline on being awarded this contract. This radar system for Typhoon aircraft can jam enemy air defences hundreds of miles away so it is heartening to know workers in Dunfermline will play a vital role in this contract.”