Opportunities for SMEs

Huntingdonshire is emerging as a hub for defence, advanced manufacturing, and innovation, anchored by RAF Wyton, RAF Alconbury, and RAF Molesworth. It offers a trusted environment for intelligence, security, and technology, making it ideal for SMEs to grow and join defence supply chains.

Strategic Priorities

  • Establish Huntingdonshire as the UK's centre for Geospatial Intelligence.
  • Support SMEs in joining Defence Supply Chains through compliance guidance and strategic partnerships.
  • Harness dual-use innovation in areas like medical technology, advanced composites, and AI-driven analytics.
  • Strengthen skills and capabilities through Defence Technical Colleges and regional innovation hubs.

Opportunities for SMEs

  • Digital Services & Cybersecurity: Defence contractors require strong cyber capabilities, with Cyber Essentials as the minimum standard.
  • Specialist Engineering & Advanced Manufacturing: High demand exists for rapid prototyping, lightweight composites, and secure technology solutions.
  • Professional Services & Data Analytics: Opportunities to support intelligence operations and estate management.
  • Collaboration Consortia: SMEs can join forces to bid for larger contracts and co-develop demonstrators with universities.

Practical Steps into the Defence Market

Dual-Use Technology Hotspots

  • Medical Technologies: Innovations like battlefield haemostatic dressings adapted for emergency care.
  • Space Systems: Satellite services and propulsion technologies.
  • Digital Twins & AI Analytics: Enabling predictive maintenance and secure communications.
  • Additive Manufacturing: Lightweight alloys and composites for defence and aerospace applications.

SME Tools & Resources

CEO Breakfast Presentation