Defence technology company Helsing has disclosed plans to open a Resilience Factory in Plymouth, UK this year as part of a £350m ($475.95m) Trinity House investment.
This move is expected to generate high-value employment opportunities and position Plymouth as a key player in marine autonomy.
The planned facility in Plymouth will be dedicated to producing autonomous underwater miniature submarines.
These submarines, powered by AI, are intended for continuous maritime surveillance and for safeguarding vital subsea infrastructure.
In a LinkedIn post, Helsing said: “The first UK Resilience Factory is planned to produce SG-1 Fathom in the National Centre for Marine Autonomy.”
In May 2025, Helsing unveiled its Lura software platform and SG-1 Fathom autonomous underwater gliders.
Helsing UK managing director Ned Baker said: “Helsing supports the Government’s ambitions for our defences and economy. We are investing in both by opening the first UK Resilience Factory and accelerating our £350m commitment.
“We have confidence in the Government’s commitment to new technological solutions for defence. Together, we can attract further private investment, equipping our armed forces and growing the economy.”
The development coincides with the release of the Defence and Economic Growth Taskforce's recommendations, a collaborative effort between the government and the defence industry aimed at capitalising on the economic opportunities within the UK's defence sector.
The taskforce has outlined a "Team UK" approach that focuses on fostering innovation, attracting private investment, and creating jobs, particularly in the realm of high-value defence technologies.
"The new era of threats demands a new era for defence and security," stated Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves.
She highlighted the government's commitment to increasing defence spending to 2.6% of GDP by April 2027.
Reeves noted that initiatives like Helsing's Resilience Factory align with their ‘Plan for Change’ to unlock economic potential in the defence sector while securing the nation.
The Defence and Economic Growth Taskforce has put forth proposals for ‘Defence Growth Deals’ designed to stimulate investment beyond traditional defence strongholds.
UK Secretary of State for Defence John Healey said: “I welcome the Defence and Economic Growth Taskforce’s report which recognises how we can boost high-skilled jobs across the country and grow our economy while strengthening our frontline forces.”
The Taskforce, jointly led by the Chancellor and Defence Secretary, with support from the Confederation of British Industry and consultancy Oliver Wyman, has further recommended procurement reforms, export support, and enhanced backing for dual-use technologies.
These recommendations will form part of a comprehensive Defence Industrial Strategy expected to be unveiled later in 2025.
