Defence

An in-depth review of the UK’s defence industrial strategy is on track to deliver recommendations before year-end on which sectors require national protection during future acquisitions, says UK minister for defence procurement Lord Drayson. “I am demanding gritty conclusions on shipbuilding and ship support; fixed-wing aircraft, including unmanned air vehicles; rotorcraft; guided weapons; general munitions; armoured fighting vehicles; and a number of other key areas,” he says.

Addressing RUSI’s Military Capability conference in London, Drayson said defence procurement should evolve from large, “must-win” contracts to a stream of support, sustainability and incremental capability enhancement deals to give industry a more assured revenue stream. The study defines the UK’s defence industry base as “where technology is created, high-value skills and intellectual property reside and the investment is made”.

CRAIG HOYLE/LONDON