Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MSP, Alasdair Allan, and MP, Angus MacNeil, have welcomed today’s announcement that the future of the Hebrides Range in Uist will remain secure until 2028. 

The news comes as QinetiQ, the range’s operators, announce they have been awarded a £1 billion contract amendment from the UK Ministry of Defence until 31 March 2028.

It has been reported that QinetiQ will invest approximately £60m in modern tracking equipment, instrumentation and range infrastructure at the MOD Hebrides ranges.

Alasdair Allan MSP commented:

“The investment in Hebrides range announced today is a testament to the skilled workforce in Uist and I hope this now means a long period of secure work for them.

“The community in Uist has built up a reputation over many years for its commitment to Hebrides Range and has spoken up clearly in the past when those jobs have been under threat. I was privileged to be part of those efforts in 2009, and since then the Uist Economic Task Force has been active in pressing the case for the development of Uist, one of Scotland’s most economically fragile rural communities.

“I congratulate the workforce on this positive news.”

Angus MacNeil MP commented:

“The Hebrides Range is an important employer and today’s announcement from QinetiQ is very good news for the economy in Uist.

“I am delighted for the workforce and I do hope that this announcement will bring stability for many years to the Hebrides Range.”