BAE Systems set to cut 290 Lancashire jobs

International defence company BAE Systems is set to cut 440 management jobs across the UK, with more half in Lancashire.

The cuts in BAE’s Military Air and Information division follow a review of the company’s internal management structures.

Parts for F-35 Lightning 2, Eurofighter Typhoon, Tornado and Hawk aircraft are manufactured in Lancashire.

BAE made the “regrettable” announcement on thursday and states that the changes would “make a more efficient and effective business”.

Various other locations in the UK will be affected by the job cuts, including Yorkshire, Dorset, Surrey, Lincolnshire and Norfolk.

A 45-day consultation period with staff is now expected to take place.

Managing director Chris Boardman said: “We believe that by implementing changes to our management structure, we will become a more efficient and effective business and be better placed to meet the needs of current and potential customers in what is an increasingly competitive market.

“We understand that this is a time of uncertainty for our employees and we are committed to working with them and their representatives to explore ways of avoiding and mitigating potential job losses.”