MOD Opens Grant Windows for New Energetics and Munitions Factories
The MOD has published a grant structure information notice signalling its intention to open funding windows for the construction of new energetic synthesis facilities, as part of the Strategic Defence Review's "factories of the future" initiative, with up to six new facilities planned. If your company works in energetics, propulsion, munitions components, or manufacturing technology for these sectors, this is a direct funding signal worth tracking. The notice is pre-competition at this stage, meaning the grant windows are not yet open, but the intent is confirmed and the direction of travel is clear.
Source →MOD Appoints First Director General Innovation
The MOD has created and filled a new Director General Innovation post, with Anthony Reeves appointed to the role. This is a structural change in how the MOD manages innovation, and it points toward a more consolidated command over programmes like UKDI, DASA successor activities, and innovation funding pipelines. SMEs bidding into MOD innovation programmes should watch for any reorganisation of how those programmes are governed or prioritised under this new function.
Source →UKDI Tactical Power Challenge Now Live
The UK Defence Innovation Tactical Power Challenge is seeking proposals to help the Army meet battlefield electricity demand. This is a live UKDI call. Companies working in portable power, energy storage, fuel cells, power management, or related hardware and software are the target. Details beyond the guidance publication are limited at this stage, so check the full guidance document for eligibility, scope, and submission requirements.
Source →UK Space Agency Procuring Three Technology Roadmaps
The UK Space Agency intends to procure technical services to develop roadmaps covering cyber resilience and security for space, in-orbit servicing, assembly and manufacturing, and advanced materials for space. This is a market shaping exercise, not a production contract, but the outputs will directly inform future investment and funding priorities in these areas. Companies with capability in any of these three domains should note that participation in or visibility of these roadmaps could position them ahead of subsequent funding calls.
Source →Project AETHER Stratospheric ISR Flight Planned for 2027-28
Project AETHER is planning a multi-payload, long-endurance stratospheric flight in the 2027-28 financial year to demonstrate ISR collection at high altitude. This is a demonstrator programme, not a procurement, but it signals active MOD interest in persistent high-altitude surveillance and the payloads that support it. Companies developing sensors, signal collection, data links, or processing tools suited to stratospheric platforms should be aware this programme is moving toward a demonstration phase.
Source →Today's dominant theme is MOD investment in sovereign production and innovation infrastructure, from energetics factories and tactical power to stratospheric ISR and a new DG Innovation post, all pointing toward a more deliberate effort to pull technology and manufacturing capability back onshore.