With rapid expansion driven by increasing global demand for innovative technology that can defeat the growing threat of Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS), or drones as they’re commonly known, OpenWorks Engineering has accelerated its commitment to investment in its products, people and plant.
Since January of this year, headcount at OpenWorks has risen from 36 to 54 people spanning a wide range of technical and business skills, including software development, mechanical and electrical engineering, people and talent, health and safety, integrated logistics support and marketing. Another 20 roles are planned throughout 2025 including two apprenticeships.
For the second time, the creation of jobs at OpenWorks has outstripped commitments made as part of grant support that has partially funded a doubling of production space at the OpenWorks site in Prudhoe. The company is also currently in discussions to take-on further office and production space in anticipation of further growth.
The proliferation of malicious and nuisance drones has attracted wide ranging attention, and is of increasing interest to NATO forces, especially those deployed in Ukraine. As such, defence officials in the U.S. Government recently proposed $800m of funding for technologies that can counter the growing threat, whilst the UK Ministry of Defence’s recently released Strategic Defence Review recognises the unique challenges associated with the use of drones in recent conflict environments. The trend continues in many European nations.
Having built a strong, international customer base with requirements for ultra-high precision, modularity, and speed to detect, identify and track drones over the last 10 years, OpenWorks is investing over £2,000,000 per year in research and development to accelerate its strengths in both developing capability for deployed troops, and enhancing stabilisation for detection on the move. Use cases include special operations, armoured vehicle protection and specialist applications for ‘Ground Based Air Defence’.
“The huge demand for OpenWorks’ products not only reflects growing concern among defence and security forces, but it is also testament to the skill and commitment of our team who have earned a world-class reputation. We’re working hard to anticipate the future requirements of our end-users, we’re driving the next generation of intelligent solutions for Counter-UAS and Air Defence application, and we’re investing in the structure that will support that growth”. Chris Down, Chief Executive Officer at OpenWorks.
