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. This conference is free to attend.
- 11-12th June 2026
- Millennium Point, Birmingham
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
"Strengthening our national security goes hand in hand with strengthening British industry. The Defence Procurement Conference 2026 is a vital step in opening up real opportunities for SMEs across the West Midlands and beyond to play a greater role in our defence supply chains. I strongly support this initiative and encourage businesses to take advantage of the practical guidance, insight and connections it offers.”
Al Carns, Minister for the Armed Forces and MP for Birmingham Selly Oak, has given the Defence Procurement Conference 2026 his full backin, 27 January 2026
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
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.
- Connect SMEs directly with defence manufacturers and procurement leads
- Provide insight into MOD supply chain requirements
- Clarify bidding processes and compliance expectations
- Offer high-level policy briefings and practical procurement workshops
- Create structured networking between commissioners and suppliers
This is not a trade show. It is a strategic procurement forum designed to unlock access.
25 +
Our Visionary Speakers
897 +
Event Participants
69 +
International Sponsors
What to expect
Senior MOD and procurement representatives
Defence manufacturers and tier one contractors
Policy briefings on UK defence spending
Roundtables and closed-door discussions
Practical guidance on compliance and accreditation
Regional supply chain development opportunities
our official sponsors
Secure your place
Defence Procurement Opportunities are expanding across the UK. The West Midlands is positioning itself as a hub for advanced manufacturing, sovereign capability and innovation.
Be part of the businesses shaping the next phase of UK defence supply chains.
Register your interest today00
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