Recognising the need for Scottish based companies in the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors to have an effective voice, ADS Scotland was established in 2005 to represent both SME and multinational company members. Today, our members significant contribution to both the Scottish and UK economies is recognised by the policy makers.
ADS sectors contribute significantly to secure Scotland’s domestic, global and future advantage. From technology and exports to apprenticeships and investment, our sectors are vital to Scotland’s economic prosperity and growth. Our purpose is to deliver real added value by bringing global business opportunities to members, improving manufacturing productivity and efficiency through our programmes.
For too long, the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors have been under supported, underappreciated and overly stigmatised. With the appropriate support, Scotland is uniquely positioned to become a global leader in defence and advanced manufacturing. That is why ADS wants to see the next Scottish Government play to Scotland’s existing strengths.
Find out moreADS Scotland is given its strategic direction by the ADS Scotland Council. Council is led by senior executives from global companies with a Scottish presence including:
ADS Scotland is a part of the Aerospace and Defence Industry Leadership Group (A&D ILG). It is a key part of Scotland’s strategy for economic transformation. This group focuses on advancing the aerospace and defence sectors by addressing various challenges and leveraging opportunities for growth and innovation.
Key Objectives of the A&D ILG:
The strategic importance of the aerospace, defence, security and space industries to Scotland cannot be understated. They add £3.7billion to the economy, growth of over 50% in 5 years, and now employ 36,900 people. The industries – explicitly recognised as Growth Sectors in the UK government’s Industrial Strategy – have also seen turnover in Scotland reach £9 billion, an increase of one third over five years.
The latest report from ADS Scotland provides an insight into how these sectors protect national security, deliver engineering excellence, and drive innovation.
Read it here: Scotland Facts Figures 2025.
