Babcock and BAE Systems have launched a new scheme to stop talented apprenticeship applicants slipping out of the defence industry when they miss out on a place with a major employer. The Apprenticeship Talent Bridge, run with The 5% Club, will match strong candidates with smaller firms across the defence supply chain that are struggling to recruit.

The scheme tackles a mismatch at the heart of the sector's skills pipeline. Large defence contractors attract far more applications than they have places for, while smaller businesses in the same supply chain find it hard to attract the people they need. The Talent Bridge connects the two, giving unsuccessful applicants an alternative route into engineering and manufacturing careers.

Two regional pilots are already under way. Babcock is running the South West pilot, covering Devonport, while BAE Systems leads the North West pilot, serving Barrow-in-Furness and the Preston area. Apprentices are expected to be matched with small and medium-sized employers from April 2027, and prospective apprentices and employers have been able to register since October 2026.

The initiative supports the Government's Defence Youth Participation and Employment Pledge, which commits to a "no wrong door" approach for young people seeking careers in defence. Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard MP said every young person who shows the talent and drive to succeed in defence deserves a route into the industry.

Participation is voluntary, and applicants' personal data will only be shared with their explicit consent. The scheme is funded by the Ufi VocTech Trust and the ERA Foundation, with significant in-kind investment from The 5% Club, and Airbus Defence and Space has also contributed insights. Full details are on The Manufacturer.