Bringing UK business into the defence supply chain

Defence procurement conference 2026

The Defence Procurement Conference 2026 is the West Midlands’ inaugural event dedicated to connecting UK SMEs with defence manufacturers, MOD representatives and senior policymakers.

11-12th June 2026
Millennium Point, Birmingham

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£2.5 Billion

The amount by which the UK Government is pledged to increase spending with SMEs by 2028

With defence spending rising and supply chains diversifying, this opens up new opportunities for UK companies to play a crucial role in the nation’s defence supply chains.

This two-day conference provides practical routes into the UK defence procurement ecosystem for companies interested in entering the defence supply chain. If your organisation wants to understand how to secure defence contracts, meet prime contractors or position yourself within the MOD supply chain, this event is designed for you.

6

Panels

20 +

Speakers over 2 days

1000 +

Delegates

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Attend the event

Who should attend?

SMEs seeking entry into defence markets

Established defence suppliers looking to expand contracts

Advanced manufacturing and engineering firms

Technology, cyber and dual-use innovators

Professional services firms supporting defence delivery

Policymakers and regional growth leaders

“We’re breaking down barriers and opening new avenues for innovation. We are ensuring that our SMEs can play a vital role in strengthening our defence capabilities.”

Luke Pollard MP, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, GOV.UK, 27 January 2026

Why this conference matters

The UK defence sector is evolving.

Smaller suppliers already account for some £4.5 billion of MOD spend - and the Government has pledged to increase defence spending with SMEs by 50% by 2028.

Procurement reform, sovereign capability priorities and national resilience objectives are reshaping how contracts are awarded and delivered.