BAE Systems takes axe to 1900 in major shake-up

BAE Systems will slash 1915 jobs as part of a groupwide shake-up under new chief executive Charles Woodburn.

Up to 1400 jobs will go in the military air and information division, the company confirmed, due to a drop in production of the Typhoon and Hawk aircraft.

A further 375 roles will go at maritime services and 150 in the cyber defence arm, applied intelligence.

The company said the maritime changes would “enhance our competitive position” and the cyber changes would make it “more efficient.

Woodburn said: “I recognise this will be difficult news for some of our employees and we are committed to do everything we can to support those affected.”

From January 1, the firm will abolish its platform and services division and beef up its air, maritime and land units.

Unite, the union, called the cuts a “betrayal” of a loyal workforce and “devastatingly short-sighted”.