UK strives to solve disconnect with SMEs
Jeremy Quin (right of picture) claimed that a new action plan would ‘reduce barriers’ faced by SMEs in dealing with the MoD and prime contractors. (Photo: MoD/Crown Copyright)
The latest UK action plan for better engagement with SMEs appears to be an attempt to build better relationships between the MoD, prime contractors and the defence supply chain — but how will theory translate into practice?
The UK government has set a target that by 2022, £1 in every £3 it spends will reach SMEs directly or via the supply chain — and the MoD is no exception.
On 28 January, defence procurement minister Jeremy Quinn officially launched a new action plan to improve the way that the MoD does business with SMEs.
He claimed the plan would ‘increase engagement with the SME sector, and reduce barriers to better utilise the expertise and innovation these organisations offer’ in the context of three major policy announcements in 2021: the Defence and Security Industrial Strategy, Integrated
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
You may also like
More from Defence Notes
-
![UK releases security strategy and plans for future defence spending boost]()
UK releases security strategy and plans for future defence spending boost
The UK’s National Security Strategy brings together the recently released Strategic Defence Review (SDR), Strategic Security Review, AUKUS Review and Industrial and Trade Strategies. At the same time, the UK made a commitment to reach defence spending of 5% of GDP by 2035 and Germany committed to 3.5% by 2029.
-
![Pentagon’s FY26 defence budget proposal is $130 billion more than US Congress plans to provide]()
Pentagon’s FY26 defence budget proposal is $130 billion more than US Congress plans to provide
The House Committee on Appropriations approved a FY2026 bill reducing investments in main defence programmes.
-
![What role could holographic and 3D capabilities play in the warfare of tomorrow]()
What role could holographic and 3D capabilities play in the warfare of tomorrow
Holographic and 3D technologies have been lauded by some for their ability to provide technical and operational advantages for military training and planning. But is the hype truly justified?
-
![Unfolding the Golden Dome for America: Seven things you should know about the programme]()
Unfolding the Golden Dome for America: Seven things you should know about the programme
Shephard talked to multiple experts about the most pressing concerns and considerations regarding the air defence system advocated by President Trump.
-
![Industry welcomes UK Strategic Defence Review, but pressure remains on future defence investment plans]()
Industry welcomes UK Strategic Defence Review, but pressure remains on future defence investment plans
While industry reception to the SDR has been positive, questions still remain from analyst and trade associations about what this could mean for future investment and the future UK Defence Industrial Strategy.
