ARMS manufacturer Leonardo has again had its Edinburgh factory blockaded today as more than 100 activists protest its “complicity in genocide and the Zionist war machine.”

Campaigners took up position from 5am at the gates of the plant, which produced laser targeting systems to Lockheed Martin for use in the F-35, an aircraft which played a key role as Israeli forces razed Gaza as well as in its attacks on Lebanon and Iran.

The business has proven lucrative for the company, however, with profits soaring by 63 per cent to £1 billion in 2024 only to grow further still in 2025 to £1.4bn as it boasted a record order book.

Retired transport worker Kim, who did not give their surname, said: “It is truly sickening to know that weapons used in the genocidal onslaught of Gaza and the brutal wars on Iran and Lebanon are made in our backyard in this factory. 

“With the political class continuing their unwavering support for the zionist war machine, we all have a duty to take action and disrupt the flow of arms manufactured in the UK.”

Omar, a teacher, who also did not give their surname, said: “Components for the F-35 fighter jet used by Israel in the ongoing brutal assaults are made in this factory.

“When we come together as a community, as people, we can do our bit to stop the zionist war machine.”

Tyler, a student, who also did not give their surname, added: “While Scotland’s boycott of Israel and the UK’s recognition of a Palestinian state is encouraging, both have been shown to be superficial statements.

“Recognition without sanctions, embargoes and restitution is not recognition but a veil for ongoing complicity.”

Leonardo UK was contacted for comment.