Supporting UK Defence Manufacturers

The UK defence sector offers significant opportunities for manufacturers, but navigating a complex landscape can be challenging.
Our deep understanding of the defence industry and its supply chain enables us to represent members' interests across government and the wider industry, ensuring that the voice of the sector is heard at the highest levels from the Ministry of Defence and across Whitehall. 

Why join Make UK Defence

Opportunities

Success in the defence industry relies on collaboration and strong relationships.

Make UK Defence helps members build valuable connections across the defence supply chain through networking opportunities, industry events and Meet the Buyer sessions. We bring manufacturers together with decision-makers, customers and partners, helping businesses prosper and grow. 

Networking

The best networking community in the UK defence industry.

Dozens of in person events both regionally and nationally every year.

Meet the buyer sessions hosting 750 meetings per year between prospective suppliers and customers.

Regular briefing webinars on MOD updates & programmes.

Access membership capability platform.

Policy Representation

Representing our members’ capabilities and challenges at the highest levels in Westminster & Whitehall and provide high quality engagement opportunities for members with key policymakers in government.

Delivering tangible policy wins for our members in lockstep with our National Advisory Board & Sector-specific Working Groups to improve and reform the defence supply chain.

Insights & practical support

Gain access to industry insight and practical guidance across the defence sector. 

From understanding opportunities and navigating challenges to building relationships and identifying new routes to growth, Make UK Defence helps members make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.

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Fit for Defence Programme

Make UK Defence offers a bespoke business improvement programme for organisations of all sizes and experience in the sector.

Our team of specialists assess your organisation’s strengths and weaknesses and develop a bespoke action plan to maximise your future growth.

Our specialists can help you:

  • Craft your business strategy
     
  • Create impactful marketing plans
     
  • Refine your environment, health and safety processes
     
  • Improve your bidding successes.
     
  • Enhance your cyber security capability
     
  • Develop your export strategy.

To find out more, complete the form below or call us on 0808 168 5874

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Defence Summit

Shaping the future of UK defence at a pivotal global moment. Join us on 18th & 19th November 2026. Secure your tickets now.


 

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Our Events

Make UK Defence events bring together industry leaders, SMEs, and government to share insight, build connections, and explore new opportunities.

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Defence Membership Benefits

We offer different membership levels, each providing tailored benefits to match your needs and ambitions in the defence sector. 

A Practical Guide to Defence

The UK defence sector is growing rapidly, creating major opportunities for manufacturers, but for many, knowing where to start can be a challenge.

That’s why Make UK Defence, in partnership with Lloyds, created A Practical Guide to Working in Defence — a clear, accessible resource designed to help SMEs enter, grow, and succeed in the defence supply chain.
 

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Our Strategic Partners

Our Strategic Partners are leading organisations that support our members and help shape the defence sector.

They bring expertise, insight and opportunities to the network, working with us on events, initiatives and thought leadership to strengthen the wider supply chain.

Our Charity Partners

Have a question in mind?

Or just not sure where to start? Get in touch and we’ll point you in the right direction.

Whether you’re exploring the defence sector for the first time or looking to make the most of your membership, our team is here to help.

You might want to:

  • Find out more about joining Make UK Defence 
  • Ask about our events, Meet the Buyer sessions or networking opportunities 
  • Learn how to connect with Primes, the Ministry of Defence and wider industry 
  • Get support with business growth, marketing or capability development 
  • Explore programmes like Fit for Defence 
  • Understand how to access member benefits and resources 
  • Discuss partnership or collaboration opportunities 

Just let us know what you’re looking for, and we’ll make sure the right person gets back to you.