AWE is a UK organisation with a critical national security role, responsible for supporting the country’s nuclear deterrent. For more than 75 years, it has designed, developed, manufactured and maintained the UK’s nuclear warheads, ensuring the effectiveness and safety of the Continuous At Sea Deterrent. The organisation positions itself at the forefront of nuclear technology and innovation, delivering solutions that help keep the nation safe and secure.
Its operations bring together a workforce of around 9,000 highly skilled professionals, including scientists, engineers and technical specialists. AWE highlights its commitment to building strong relationships with government customers, international partners and local communities. It has also been recognised as one of the UK’s Best Big Companies to work for, reflecting its focus on employee experience and organisational culture.
AWE places significant emphasis on safety, governance and the management of environment, health and wellbeing. It operates state‑of‑the‑art facilities and supports a wide range of production, science, engineering and technology programmes. The organisation stresses that precision, reliability and rigorous standards underpin every aspect of its work, given the unique responsibilities associated with handling weapons‑grade materials and delivering national‑level capabilities.
AWE is also a supporter of the Armed Forces Covenant, recognising the vital contribution of serving personnel, reservists, veterans and military families. While its primary public messaging focuses on its national security mission, the organisation aligns itself with Covenant principles by committing to fair treatment, respect and support for the Armed Forces community. This commitment complements its broader values of responsibility, service and maintaining a workforce that reflects the skills and dedication required for its nationally important role.