Publication

This paper analyzes the state and structure of the UK defense industry. The author describes the UK's traditional dependency on military research and development and examines the position of the defense industry within the context of the United Kingdom's medium size European economy. The paper explains that radical reforms to improve value for money in defense procurement have come and gone with little significant impact on delays and cost overruns. The author states that major reforms in the UK defense industry are needed and suggests that instead of leading in arms exports that add to regional tensions, the UK could instead become a global pioneer in the production of peaceful technologies and in supporting sustainable international development.