Robin Swann MP welcomes RAF SME procurement hub to boost Northern Ireland businesses

South Antrim MP Robin Swann

South Antrim MP Robin Swann has welcomed the Ministry of Defence’s announcement that it will establish a new RAF SME procurement hub – a move he has long advocated for in support of Northern Ireland businesses.

Mr Swann recently met with Secretary of State for Defence John Healey MP to present a detailed paper on how increased defence expenditure could create greater opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Northern Ireland. His proposals also highlighted the importance of enhanced support for RAF Aldergrove.

Robin Swann MP at a recent meeting with Defence Secretary John Healey MP

A central request in Mr Swann’s paper was the creation of a dedicated hub to help SMEs access Ministry of Defence (MOD) contracts.

The announcement comes shortly after the publication of the Strategic Defence Review, which set out the government’s vision for the UK’s defence and security priorities.

Welcoming the development, Mr Swann said:

“I am incredibly to see the MOD actioning this request and delivering an RAF SME procurement hub that I hope will be a great support to the many SMEs in Northern Ireland that currently, or could following increased investment, contribute greatly to our defence efforts.

“This is particularly welcome with the RAF announcing their intention to allocate 40% of their future contracts to small and medium enterprises.”

The MP emphasised that access to defence contracts has been a long-standing challenge for smaller firms.

“I’ve heard time and time again the difficulties that SMEs face in gaining access to contracts with the MOD and I hope this Hub will help address this core issue. It’s excellent that the Secretary of State for Defence has listened and has made this request a reality.”

The new procurement hub is expected to provide SMEs with improved guidance, greater visibility of opportunities, and a more streamlined process for engaging with defence projects.

Supporters believe it could generate significant economic benefits across Northern Ireland’s business community while strengthening the UK’s overall defence supply chain.