Hundreds of skilled workers at defence contractor Leonardo are on the brink of industrial action after overwhelmingly rejecting what unions describe as an "inadequate" pay offer.
The Unite union has confirmed it will ballot members at Leonardo's Edinburgh and Southampton sites after 96% of workers voted against the company's proposed pay deal in a consultative ballot.
Mounting Tensions in Defence Sector
The dispute involves approximately 500 highly specialised engineers and technicians working on critical defence projects, including advanced radar systems and electronic warfare technology for both UK and international military forces.
Unite regional officer Bob Macgregor didn't mince words: "Our members have sent a crystal clear message to Leonardo management. The current pay offer is completely unacceptable and fails to recognise their vital contribution to national security."
Ballot Process Underway
The formal industrial action ballot is scheduled to open on 15th January and will run until 5th February, giving workers the opportunity to vote on strike action that could significantly impact Leonardo's operations.
Macgregor emphasised the union's position: "Leonardo needs to return to the negotiating table with a substantially improved offer that properly rewards our members' skills and dedication. The alternative is inevitable disruption to crucial defence projects."
Strategic Importance of Sites
The Edinburgh facility represents one of Scotland's most significant manufacturing operations, specialising in advanced radar systems for combat aircraft including the Eurofighter Typhoon.
Meanwhile, the Southampton site focuses on developing sophisticated electronic warfare systems, playing a crucial role in protecting UK and allied military assets.
A Leonardo spokesperson responded: "We remain committed to finding a constructive resolution through ongoing dialogue with union representatives."
The outcome of this dispute could have ripple effects across the UK's defence manufacturing sector, coming at a time of increased global tensions and heightened demand for advanced military technology.
