RIBBLE Valley MP Nigel Evans today welcomed news that Lancashire's BAe factories will share in a £125 million upgrade for the Tornado fighter.
Samlesbury and Warton factories will be involved in the upgrade of the Tornado F3 to make it capable of carrying air-to-air missiles.
"This is fantastic news for the Ribble Valley and the North West as a whole," said Mr Evans.
"The fact that BAe have got this contract demonstrates the Government's continuing commitment to the defence industry in Lancashire and the North West."
The upgrade was announced by the Government after months of speculation that they might shelve the Tornado plans and instead opt to lease American F16 fighters.
Design and engineering work for the upgrade will take place at the Warton site and modification kits will be produced at Samlesbury.
"We are pleased to receive this confirmation of the Government's intention to proceed with the Tornado F3 enhancement programme," said Professor David Gardner, deputy managing director of BAe Military Aircraft division.
"This is good news for BAe and our suppliers."
The Tornado F3 is in service with the RAF, Royal Saudi Air Force and the Italian Air Force.
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