WORKERS for defence giant BAE were still reeling today after the firm announced it was closing its Leeds site with the loss of 76 jobs.
The decision was announced at the company's Stourton factory, pictured.
It is understood that workers were aware that cuts were being considered but not that the operation would close completely.
A total of 507 jobs will be lost across the gro
up's Global Combat Systems Vehicles and Weapons businesses, which currently employ 1,820 people in the UK. The Leeds workforce provides support engineering for the Challenger II tank and the Terrier and Panther armoured vehicles.
BAE spokesman Mike Sweeney said: "What it means is that we are closing the Leeds site with the loss of 76 jobs.
"There will be a 90-day consultation process and we expect to close the Leeds site at the end of March next year."
BAE said the cuts were part of its "transformation programme" with around 100 roles from the closing sites to be transferred to its operations in Leicester and Newcastle.
Some of the Leeds workers may be offered new jobs depending on their skills and suitability, according to Mr Sweeney.
Global Combat Systems managing director David Allott said: "We will seek to minimise the impact of these changes on employees affected by this announcement through a range of measures, including transfer to other parts of the business and retraining where possible. We will be offering all affected employees the opportunity of an out-placement service to help them find alternative employment."
Tim Roche, the GMB's regional secretary for Yorkshire, said: "GMB is disappointed at the news from BAe with regard to 500 job losses, some of which will impact on the Leeds site.
"GMB will be seeking an urgent meeting with BAE to find the full extent of the problem."
