AEROSPACE giant BAE Systems says it is fit for the future after posting encouraging half-year results.

The company, which has plants at Samlesbury and Warton, recorded sales of £9,565million in the six months to June, up from £8,714million at the same stage in 2016.

Underlying earnings before interest and tax were £945million, up from £849million the year before, while orders worth £10,650million were received, as against £7,053million in 2016.

Underlying earnings per share rose from 17.4p to 19.8p, while net debt fell to £1,741million from £2,036million.

Chief executive Charles Woodburn said: "BAE Systems' performance in the first half was consistent with our expectations and guidance for the year.

"We have a sound platform for medium-term growth underpinned by a clear and consistent strategy.

"Strong programme execution, technology and enhanced competitive positions will be key in driving the business forward, and we will continue to focus on efficiency and meeting our customers' affordability challenges.

"With the expected improvement in the defence budget outlook in a number of our markets, the group is well placed to continue to generate good returns for shareholders."

BAE Systems employs about 13,000 people at more than 30 locations nationally, with around 4,500 staff at Samlesbury.

Among the highlights for the first half of 2017 was a new £2.3million training and simulation integration facility at Warton.

Chris Boardman, managing director at BAE Systems Military Air & Information, said: "We have made good progress on our key programmes in the first half of 2017 with Typhoon deliveries for our UK and export customers as well as production rates on F-35.

“We have continued to support operational commitments for our Typhoon and Tornado customers and have mobilised our long-term partnership with the Ministry of Defence to support the UK Typhoon fleet, helping them to safeguard our borders.

“Our work to support the integration of the F35B aircraft with the new Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers is an important step in delivering carrier strike capability to the Royal Navy and we are proud of the unique role we play on this programme of national importance.”