Defence.
For over 20 years, Innovate has been instrumental in supporting the UK’s Defence industry - enabling engineering and technology organisations large and small to harness the very best talent in highly specialist sectors including cyber security, unmanned systems, electronic warfare, Aircraft, Rotorcraft, Ground Vehicles, Naval Vessels, C4ISR, Weapons and Ammunition, and Protection and Training Equipment.
Employing around 300,000 people and generating an annual turnover of £26 billion, the UK defence industry is made up of over 1,000 specialist companies manufacturing and supplying state-of-the-art technology, equipment and services for the UK armed forces and playing a vital role in ensuring the country's security.
With an annual R&D budget of around £2 billion, the UK Defence sector is at the very forefront of innovation, developing highly-innovative products and mission-critical technologies, which has cemented an exceptional base of highly skilled workers, essential for maintaining the UK’s competitive edge in this highly competitive global market.
Looking to the future, the UK defence industry is well placed to take advantage of the growing global demand for defence goods and services. In February 2022, the British government announced its plan to invest £208 billion into the procurement of new generation military equipment and provide required services for existing services over 2021-2031. The investment is expected to support the government in strengthening its digital and cyber capabilities, along with air, land, and sea capabilities.
