RAF launches SME hub in Northern Ireland to expand procurement opportunities

Northern Ireland businesses are set to benefit from a major expansion in defence procurement, with the Royal Air Force pledging to allocate 40% of future contracts to small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The announcement was made at a special reception in Parliament Buildings, Stormont, marking the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

The event brought together industry leaders, politicians, and educators to discuss opportunities in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and education partnerships.

The move comes as UK defence spending is set to rise to 2.6% of GDP by 2027, with a further commitment to reach 3% in the next Parliament.

Direct Ministry of Defence investment already supports around 900 highly skilled jobs in Northern Ireland, while the aerospace sector employs 5,000 people and sustains another 4,000 in its supply chain.

According to industry figures, the defence and aerospace industries together contribute £900 million in economic benefits to the region, with Oxford Economics estimating that every £1 of defence spending generates £2.70 in the wider economy. Notably, 70% of defence expenditure takes place outside London and the South East of England.

RAF chief returns home

Northern Ireland man, RAF Air Chief Marshal Harv Smyth

The reception was attended by Air Chief Marshal Harv Smyth, who recently became the first Northern Irish person to serve as Chief of the Air Staff and head of the RAF.

“Having just completed my first week as Chief of the Air Staff and head of the Royal Air Force, I am delighted to have the opportunity to attend the formal Battle of Britain reception at Stormont, celebrating and commemorating those that have gone before, many making the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf,” he said.

“As a proud Northern Irishman, and the first to be CAS, it’s very special for me personally to be back home in Northern Ireland so early in my tenure – made even more special because of the importance of this event.”

The gathering was hosted by Air Officer Northern Ireland, Air Marshal Sean Reynolds, alongside Speaker of the Assembly Edwin Poots MLA. A Lancaster bomber from the RAF’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flew over Stormont to mark the commemoration.

Boost for local enterprises

The Ministry of Defence has launched a new SME hub, streamlining the process for smaller businesses to engage with RAF procurement opportunities. With 99% of Northern Ireland businesses classified as SMEs, the initiative is expected to unlock further growth and innovation in the sector.

Dr Leslie Orr, Director of ADS Northern Ireland, welcomed the announcement:

“ADS very much welcomes the Ministry of Defence announcement of the new SME hub.

“Companies here have great capabilities, it is the top UK region for aerospace and defence supply chain business excellence, holding over 50% of the UK SC21 Business Excellence awards. ADS will be working together with the new hub to further grow the defence industry in Northern Ireland.”

The RAF’s procurement target is designed to recognise the role of smaller, agile companies in driving innovation, while also ensuring that local communities benefit from increased defence investment.