BAE Systems is increasing the number of people working on the Team Tempest jet fighter project to 2,500.

The rise from the current 1,800 will take place next year and was revealed by chief executive Charles Woodburn.

BAE, which has a base at Brockworth, is among a group of leading aerospace companies developing game-changing technologies as part of Team Tempest.

GE Aviation joined the scheme during the summer to work on open architecture and infrastructure for electrical power and avionics systems at its Bishop's Cleeve facility.

Rolls-Royce, Leonardo UK, MBDA UK and the Ministry of Defence are the other main partners in the project.

Writing in the Telegraph and on the BAE Systems website, Mr Woodburn said: "This critical partnership will ensure that the UK maintains its position at the forefront of the combat air sector and that our Air Force is capable of tackling and defeating the rapid technological advancements being made by our adversaries.

"Together, and working closely with our trades unions, we've continued work on Tempest throughout the pandemic with the support of more than 1,800 people, including hundreds of apprentices.

"We will increase the size of this team to more than 2,500 by next year, providing job opportunities at all levels at this critical time in the country's economic recovery."

He continued: "We're investing in game-changing digital technologies and skills, reaching beyond the traditional defence sector to bring the very best in innovation to the project.

"The core partners have already engaged with more than 600 suppliers, SMEs and academic institutions across the UK as we drive further advances in areas such as virtual and augmented realities, 3D printing and robotic assembly.

"This fresh approach is part of the mission to deliver Tempest faster than previous combat air systems - and at lower cost."

He said investment in cutting edge innovation would create a reservoir of highly skilled experts an that it was critical for the industry to push the boundaries of technology.

BAE manufacturing director Dave Holmes said: "By developing the portfolio of companies as part of Team Tempest, we will help contribute to the retention, growth and investment in a wider world-class UK skills base.

"These partnerships, with some of the brightest and best across the country, show that Tempest is becoming a truly national endeavour and we are delivering on our promise to take new approaches to drive significant pace and efficiency into the programme."