The company which owns Barrow's shipyard has seen an increase in sales and revenue, but warns there is still considerable uncertainty about the future due to coronavirus.

BAE Systems released its half year results yesterday.

The group said its sales had increased by four per cent to £9.9bn in the six months to June 30.

Revenue also rose, increasing by six per cent to £9,180m, compared to £8,674m in the same period last year.

The company's operating profit is down to £808m, compared to £896m profit in the same period last year.

Net debt stood at £2,038m compared to £1,889m this time last year.

The company's order backlog increased to £46.1bn.

The results picked out the launch of the fourth Astute class submarine, HMS Audacious, from Barrow, in April for sea trials as a highlight of its maritime and land division in the UK and noted work continues on the Dreadnought class submarines.

However, guidance issued with the results warned the "group is subject to geopolitical uncertainties and there remains considerable uncertainty in respect of Covid-19".

Chief executive Charles Woodburn said: “We have delivered a robust performance in the first half of the year, thanks to the efforts of all of our employees. We started the year from a strong position and we have taken actions to enhance our resilience, ensuring we continued to deliver against our customer priorities, whilst keeping our employees safe.

“Assuming no significant Covid-19 resurgence, we expect a good second half to the year. Demand for our capabilities remains high and we recognise our role not only in supporting national security, but also in contributing to the economies of the countries in which we operate.”