UK makes big moves to fix “broken” defence procurement system ahead of major review
From rivets to complex computer systems, the UK defence supply chain will come under greater scrutiny. (Photo: LPhot Stuart Dickson/Royal Navy/MoD/Crown copyright)
The UK Ministry of Defence has launched what it called “the biggest reform of the department in 50 years” in response to the Public Accounts Committee’s verdict that its procurement processes are “broken”.
UK defence secretary John Healey announced on 25 October that the department would appoint a national armaments director to tackle waste in the procurement process and boost national industry within the defence supply chain. Recruitment to fill that role has now begun.
The minister also teased new powers for the chief of the defence staff and announced the launch of a military strategic headquarters before the
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
Companies’ results boom as countries dig deep to buy missiles and air defence systems
Air defence systems are continuing to appear top of countries’ shopping lists but broadly across different capabilities it is a sellers’ market, as demonstrated by backlogs and double-digit percentage point growth.
-
Details revealed on Germany’s big spending plans
In May this year, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the government plans to position Germany as “Europe's strongest conventional army”. A new blueprint outlines how this is going to occur through massive investment.
-
European Council to deliver at “pace and scale” on European defence readiness 2030 roadmap
Two of the concrete projects outlined in the readiness report, the European Air Shield and Space Shield, will aim to be launched by Q2 2026.
-
Malaysia’s defence budget sets out major procurement goals for 2026
The country has allocated RM21.70 billion for defence spending next year, with some major procurements set to be initiated across the country’s army, navy and air force.
-
GAO highlights the need for more commercial data and availability improvements
The US Government Accountability Office recently released two reports; one into the availability of selected equipment and another looking at how the government gets data and intellectual property rights through contracting.