Create a free starter account, or log in.

Get access to four free articles per month, as well as our Decisive Edge Newsletters and Daily News Bulletin.

Email Address

Password

Forgot your password? Reset by clicking here

Create a Password

[[ req.met ? '✓' : '•' ]] [[ req.text ]]

Re-enter Password

Passwords do not match

First Name

Last Name

Country

Confirm your account

Please enter the four-digit pin below that has been emailed to you.

Didn't receive the pin yet?

This pin expires in 20 minutes.

[[ error ]]

By creating an account, you agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Stay informed with Shephard's award-winning journalism. Unlock unlimited access and in-depth analysis with a corporate or individual subscription.

Explore your options here

DSEI 2021: UK defence industry policy risks strategic incoherence (Opinion)

8th September 2021 - 17:00 GMT | by The Clarence in London

RSS

UK-based F-35 component manufacturer Meggitt is set to be bought by Parker-Hannifin. (Photo: Meggitt)

The UK has a globally regarded network of defence and security companies — but industrial sovereignty is being eroded by a steady stream of bids from overseas.

Key parts of the UK defence industry appear to be up for sale to speculative US investors that are keen to swoop, secure a bargain and reap the rewards.

At the same time, UK steel company Sheffield Forgemasters has been effectively nationalised to protect critical parts of the UK defence supply chain.

These two events highlight what is best be described as growing strategic incoherency in the UK approach to protecting its sovereign defence industrial capabilities. There are potentially significant ramifications for these actions, yet no clear sense that the UK government has a plan on how to address

Already have an account? Log in