Defence firm General Dynamics UK has announced it is investing £12 million at its site in Oakdale.
Dr Sandy Wilson, president and managing director of General Dynamics UK, said: “In the almost ten years since we arrived here, South Wales has been, and continues to be, an outstanding base for our business
“As an anchor company for the Welsh economy, this investment marks a key stage in the growth of General Dynamics UK’s presence in South Wales and demonstrates our commitment to the local economy by bringing more high-value jobs to the area.”
The first phase of the £12m investment will see a dedicated facility opened by the end of the year which will manufacture the Scout SV vehicle for the British Army.
Between 600 and 700 staff would be employed at Oakdale, with a further 100 or so remaining at the company’s other site in Newbridge
Carwyn Jones, First Minister of Wales welcomed the company’s commitment.
He said: “General Dynamics UK has been a key player in the Welsh economy for almost ten years now and we are proud to have a security and defence company of such national importance based here. Not only has it played an important role in bringing high-skill, high-value jobs to South Wales but its employees have become part of the fabric of our community here and that community depends on the continued presence of General Dynamics UK in South Wales.”
Chris Evans, MP for Islwyn said: “This part of South Wales has benefited hugely from the presence of General Dynamics UK in Oakdale and I am delighted to see the company expanding its presence here.”