The Ministry of Defence has confirmed a £279 million investment to build a new home for the Army unit responsible for defending military networks from cyber attacks.
The funding will be used to construct new facilities at Duke of Gloucester Barracks in Gloucestershire, which will become the permanent base for 13 Signal Regiment, the Army’s specialist cyber defence unit.
The regiment is tasked with protecting Army computer systems from hacking, cyber espionage and other online threats, both in the UK and on overseas operations.
What the project includes
The development will deliver purpose built training facilities where soldiers will receive advanced instruction in cyber operations and digital security.
Accommodation will also be upgraded, with 248 new bedrooms for single personnel alongside 30 newly built homes for military families. A number of existing family properties on site are due to be refurbished as part of the programme.
The barracks will additionally house the Army’s Cyber, Information and Security Operations Centre, which monitors and defends military networks around the clock.
Why the investment is being made
The government says the upgrade is necessary in response to a sharp rise in cyber threats.
According to defence officials, more than 90,000 cyber attacks have been recorded against UK military networks in the past two years. The Strategic Defence Review has identified cyber warfare as a central element of modern conflict.
A new Cyber and Electromagnetic Command is also being established, with the aim of strengthening the UK’s position in digital and electronic warfare capabilities.
Luke Pollard MP, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, said that the investment would improve both operational capability and living conditions for service personnel.
He added that the project would support local industry and create employment in the surrounding area.
Jobs and training
The construction programme is expected to create 92 jobs, some of which will be offered to former members of the armed forces.
There will also be 32 apprenticeships, providing structured training opportunities linked to the development.
The Defence Infrastructure Organisation has awarded the main construction contract to British firm Bovis.
Timescale
Work on the new facilities is scheduled to begin in summer 2027, with completion expected by spring 2030. The regiment is due to relocate once the site is finished.
Major General AJ Smith CBE, Director of Basing and Infrastructure, said the project would help expand the Army’s cyber capabilities and improve operational readiness.
He described the development as part of a wider effort to modernise military infrastructure and provide better working and living environments for personnel.
13 Signal Regiment remains the Army’s only dedicated cyber unit, supporting operations at home and abroad by safeguarding military information systems from digital threats.
