An Israeli arms manufacturer's facility in Bristol repeatedly targeted by Palestine Action appears to have closed unexpectedly. The Elbit Systems UK site in the Aztec West business park was deserted when visited this week, with only a security guard present.
The company has held the lease since 2019, which was not due to expire until 2029. The site was subject to dozens of protests, including blockades, roof occupations, smashed windows and red paint. One protest took place on 1 July, days before Palestine Action was proscribed under the Terrorism Act.
Elbit Systems UK, a subsidiary of Israel's largest arms producer, has revenues of $6.8bn (£5bn). The group describes itself as the backbone of the Israel Defense Force's drone fleet, used extensively in the assault on Gaza. Its portfolio includes systems for military aircraft, drones, armed boats and land vehicles.
The closure is seen as significant by experts. Andrew Feinstein, a former South African MP and arms trade author, called it 'extremely significant', noting Elbit's central role in Israel's military industrial complex. The company's latest accounts show an operating loss of £4.7m last year, compared to a £3.8m profit in 2023.
This site is distinct from Elbit's Filton facility, where 24 people await trial for criminal damage and other charges. Elsewhere, Elbit sold its West Midlands subsidiary Elite KL and Ferranti P&C following sustained protests. Last month, reports emerged that Elbit is part of a consortium close to winning a £2bn Ministry of Defence contract, prompting former Labour minister Peter Hain to urge the defence secretary to reject the bid.
