Defence spending is rising up the political agenda, but what does it mean for UK manufacturing, defence businesses and the economy?

In this episode of Making News, Make UK experts discuss the UK’s defence ambitions, the long-awaited Defence Investment Plan, the role of SMEs in the defence supply chain, and the opportunities and challenges facing manufacturers as Europe increases defence spending.

Hosted by: 
Mark Swift, Director of Public Affairs, Make UK

With expert insights from:

• Chris Hague, Senior Policy Advisor, Make UK Defence
• Andrew Kinniburgh, Director General, Make UK Defence

The discussion explores the UK’s defence spending commitments, the implications of delays to the Defence Investment Plan, opportunities for SMEs, defence procurement reform, European collaboration, investment and financing options, and the growing importance of emerging technologies such as drones and autonomous systems.

The conversation also examines what government action is needed to unlock investment, strengthen supply chains and ensure the UK defence sector can support national security while driving economic growth and innovation.

Chapters: 
00:00 – 01:39: Introduction and the State of UK Defence Spending 
01:40 – 05:06: Funding Commitments and the Defence Budget Challenge 
05:07 – 08:19: The Defence Investment Plan and Industry Confidence 
08:20 – 12:50: SMEs, Procurement and Supply Chain Opportunities 
12:51 – 17:00: European Defence Cooperation and Export Opportunities 
17:01 – 20:39: Financing Defence and the Case for Defence Bonds 
20:40 – 25:58: Drones, Innovation and Lessons from Ukraine 
25:59 – End: The Future of UK Defence Manufacturing

Who Are Make UK?

Make UK champions British manufacturing and manufacturers. Together, we build a platform for the evolution of UK manufacturing.

For more information please head over to – https://www.makeuk.org/

Get connected: 
Twitter- https://x.com/MakeUK_ 
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/makeuk