Chemring’s arms orders soar as conflicts rage in Middle East

Turmoil in the Middle East has sparked a bulkier order book for UK defence contractor Chemring, the group has said.

Wars across the region and the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has sharpened the national security debate on both sides of the Atlantic, with the incoming Tory Government promising to maintain defence spending at 2% of GDP.

The change drove an 18% rise in the company’s order book between the end of April and August, boosted by rising demand for 40mm ammunition from one Middle Eastern customer. This generated £100 million for the group.

“In areas of increased threat the market tends to be more robust,” chief executive Michael Flowers said.

“The Conservative Party has said it will maintain defence spending at historic levels so I see the business in the UK remaining solid and supportive.