The review will identify how the Government can take a more
strategic approach to ensure competitive, innovative and
world-class defence and security industries. It will also suggest
how defence in particular might better drive investment and
prosperity across the UK.
The Ministry of Defence will lead a cross-government team,
engaging closely with industry, Parliament, and other
stakeholders over the course of the review. The findings will
feed into the broader Integrated Review of foreign policy,
defence, security and international development that the
Government is currently conducting.
Defence Minister said:
The UK defence and security industries play a crucial role in
maintaining our global influence and relationships with allies,
as well as supporting employment and economic growth across the
country.
The review will explore the role of the defence and security
sectors in ensuring that we have the right capabilities for
safeguarding our national security whilst driving prosperity
and innovation across all parts of the United Kingdom.
Many of the UK’s defence and security companies are going from
strength to strength, but there are a range of challenges for the
future. The review will examine the way industry is being
impacted by the pace of technological change, the need for
innovation and partnership, and increased competition from
abroad, alongside the difficulty of ensuring that we have the
necessary skills. The review will then consider how these
challenges are addressed and how the Government can maximise
potential opportunities.
The defence and security industry employs hundreds of thousands
of people - including thousands of apprentices – across the UK.
From building warships in Scotland and armoured vehicles in
Wales, to manufacturing aircraft in England and satellites in
Northern Ireland. The MOD invested £19.2 billion into industry,
commerce and employment in the last year.
Our industries are also at the forefront of technology
development in creating new ways to prevent and defend against
terrorism and serious organised crime. And on the international
stage, UK defence and security companies play a crucial role in
maintaining the UK’s global influence, underpinning our strategic
partnerships with key allies.
The analysis undertaken as part of the review will inform
findings of the broader Integrated Review of Security, Defence,
Development and Foreign Policy which will be taking place in
parallel.
