THREE multi-million pound missile contracts that will support jobs in South Gloucestershire and Bristol have been welcomed by MP Jack Lopresti.

Worth a combined £539million, the deals for the state-of-the-art Meteor, Common Anti-air modular Missile (CAMM) and Sea Viper missile systems were announced by Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon, which the government has said will ensure the armed forces “have the best equipment available” to protect the new Queen Elizabeth Class carriers, and the extended fleet from current and further threats.

More than 130 jobs will be sustained in the UK with arms manufacturer MBDA, with missile modification and service support being carried out in Bristol, as well as Stevenage, Henlow and Bolton.

The Filton and Bradley Stoke MP, who also serves on the government's defence sub-committee said: “This investment will make sure our armed forces, who are the best in the world, have the best equipment to keep Britain safe.

"It is also part of the Government’s Plan for Britain to support highly skilled, well paid jobs in Bristol and lock in the economic progress we have made so far.

“Bristol has some of the world’s most talented workforce and I’m proud of my record in supporting its defence industry and our growing economy.”

The Secretary of State said: “This substantial investment in missile systems is vital in protecting our ships and planes from the most complex global threats as our Armed Forces keep the UK safe.

“Backed by our rising Defence budget, these contracts will sustain high skilled jobs across the UK and demonstrate that strong defence and a strong economy go hand in hand.”