South Central Regional Defence and Security Cluster
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Our mission

We aim to grow a community dedicated to developing innovative, long-term advancements to the security and protection of our communities. We do this by:

Facilitating collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, Armed Forces, businesses, charities, academia, and government agencies.

Sharing ideas and identifying routes to market through exploitation and commercialisation.

Promoting diversity and inclusion to ensure a welcoming environment for all.

Creating a safer tomorrow

The South Central Regional Defence and Security Cluster (SCRDSC) unites industry leaders across Hampshire, Surrey, Isle of Wight, and West Sussex.

Using cutting-edge technology and world-class research, the Cluster tackles complex modern defence and security challenges.

What we offer

The SCRDSC offers many resources and advantages to the defence and security sector. Here are nine of our key strengths:

Our region provides the benefit of a significant Armed Forces presence. We're home to the Royal Navy and Army, as well as the UK’s National Air Traffic Control Centre. Here, you can connect with experts and organisations at the forefront of defence technology. These include:
  • Major MoD strategic suppliers such as Airbus, Babcock, BAE Systems, QinetiQ, and Serco.
  • Innovation hubs such as Space South Central, Maritime UK Solent, and the Farnborough Aerospace Consortium.
 
Gain access to top-tier academics specialising in risk, resilience, defence, and security. Make connections at leading institutions like the Universities of Southampton and Portsmouth.
 
Our region is well connected due to its proximity to London and major transport hubs. Engage with national and international partners through transport links and the Solent Freeport.
 
Find and leverage a highly skilled workforce in the area. This includes current and ex-service personnel specialising in engineering, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing.
 
Take part in comprehensive training programmes designed to upskill your workforce. Use these to ensure your business remains at the forefront of industry advancements.
 
Foster productive and valuable connections across the Cluster. Our Cluster covers a diverse supply chain, including:
  • the Ministry of Defence
  • Armed Forces
  • SMEs
  • micro businesses
  • charities
  • academia
 
Accelerate your projects with the wealth of opportunities on offer. Provided by Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), Innovate UK and others, these opportunities include:
  • funding opportunities
  • grants
  • investments
  • mentorship programmes
 
Stay updated on procurement portals used by the Armed Forces and their strategic suppliers. With this, you can enhance your chances to secure contracts.
 
Receive expert guidance on starting and growing your business in the region. Learn how to leverage our ideal location.
 

Membership and Enquiries

Membership is free and is open to defence and security businesses, defence sector supply chain and research institutions.

Find out more

Events

See our upcoming events and booking information.

Contact us

Join us to help shape the future of defence and security in South Central England. Whether you’re a start-up, an established company or a research institution, there’s a place for you.

Membership to the Cluster is currently free, but this may change as we grow. Complete the webform above to join and receive updates.

Email: [email protected]

Supported by local government, DASA and Airbus UK.

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