BAE cuts hit Rutland base
More than 120 jobs face the axe at RAF Cottesmore in Rutland. The losses were confirmed as part of cuts at BAE Systems plants across the country following the government’s decision to suspend several major contracts.
BAE said that it had begun consultation regarding potential job losses after it had received contract termination letters from the Ministry of Defence. The company said that jobs will go at six of its UK sites and two RAF bases.
At the Rutland base, 127 jobs are expected to go. Across the country, up to 1,300 positions have been earmarked for the axe.
Kevin Taylor, managing director of BAE Systems Military Air Solutions, said: "Since the publication of the SDSR in October we have taken time to understand the implications for our business. We have recently received termination for customer convenience notices for the Nimrod MRA4 and Harrier contracts and this has regrettably led us to initiating consultation regarding potential job losses.
"Today's announcement is designed to ensure we remain competitive as we actively pursue a number of opportunities for our other products and services both in the UK and internationally. Military Air Solutions remains a sustainable business with a strong business plan.
"I appreciate this is difficult news for our people and we are committed to working with employees and their representatives to explore ways of mitigating the potential job losses."
