As BAE Systems announces that applications for its 2026 apprenticeship intake are open, the Company has reached a record achievement with more than 6,800 young people in training across its UK operations. This figure, which includes approximately 5,100 apprentices and 1,700 graduates, underlines the Company’s commitment to developing the next generation of British talent.
Since 2020, the Company has recruited more than 10,000 apprentices and graduates and invested over £1 billion in education and skills, strengthening the nation’s industrial skills base while contributing to local and national economic development.
In 2026, BAE Systems expects to recruit more than 1,100 apprentices in the UK, with most roles based in the North of England, alongside other opportunities in the South of England, Scotland and Wales.
The Company also plans to hire close to 1,200 graduates and undergraduates, offering opportunities to work on some of the world’s most advanced defence and security programmes. These highly skilled individuals will contribute to projects of significant international importance, including the Global Combat Air Programme, the UK’s next-generation SSN-AUKUS submarines and Type-26 frigates alongside disruptive technologies such as cyber, space and drone capabilities.