MOD and Dstl push faster capability delivery as DSEI 27 launches
The National Armaments Director and Chief of the Defence Staff have publicly called for faster capability delivery, greater innovation, and improved readiness, timed to coincide with the launch of DSEI UK 27. This is a direct signal about where MOD leadership wants the procurement tempo to go, and it reinforces appetite for SME-originated solutions rather than waiting on prime-led programmes. DSEI UK 27 will run under the theme of the integrated force, with sub-themes covering innovation, industrial capacity, international collaboration, and digital technology.
Source →Project Safari opens UK test and evaluation facilities to SMEs
MOD and QinetiQ have launched Project Safari, a joint programme designed to give SMEs faster access to UK test and evaluation facilities. Access to T&E has historically been a bottleneck for smaller suppliers trying to demonstrate capability against military requirements. Details on scope, eligibility, and how to apply are not in the signal, so further investigation via QinetiQ or MOD channels is needed.
Source →Free webinar on dual-use route into UK defence, 15 October
A free online session on 15 October will explain how SMEs with commercial technology can position themselves for MOD work through dual-use innovation routes. This is targeted directly at companies that have not yet engaged with defence procurement and are unsure how to frame their offering. The timing is tight given today's date, so check DPRTE for registration details immediately.
Source →Government awards £50 million to quantum technology firms
The UK government has awarded £50 million to quantum technology companies working on sensors and positioning systems, with applications including military use alongside railways and healthcare. Six businesses are named as initial recipients, with further investment directed at supply chain development and apprenticeships. The Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade and UKRI are behind the funding. Firms working on quantum sensing, positioning, or navigation in a defence context should look at what the next round of this funding covers and who is in the supply chain.
Source →Dstl publishes updated SAPIENT guidance for networked autonomous sensing
Dstl has updated public guidance on SAPIENT, its open architecture for networking autonomous sensors with AI at the edge, including intelligent fusion and autonomous sensor management. This is Dstl's primary route for pulling in sensor, AI, and autonomous systems suppliers into a common integration framework used in trials and procurements. Suppliers in those areas who have not yet engaged with SAPIENT should look at the published architecture documentation to understand the interface standards and how products are assessed for compatibility.
Source →MOD leadership is publicly signalling urgency around speed of delivery and innovation access, while concrete routes for SMEs including SAPIENT, Project Safari, and dual-use engagement are all active simultaneously, making this a moment to check whether your capability maps to any of them.