Defence and Security Cluster

Harwell’s Defence Advantage

Harwell brings together SMEs, academia, industry and government to tackle some of the UK’s most pressing defence and security challenges.

Building on our strength across science, technology and innovation, the Defence and Security Cluster helps accelerate adoption, unlock investment and strengthen supply chains, creating growth opportunities for organisations of all sizes.

As a founding partner of the Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Chilterns Regional Defence and Security Cluster, Harwell is helping build regional capability with national impact.

Turning innovation into capability

Defence and security innovation reaches far beyond traditional military technology. At Harwell, organisations can connect across space, cyber, health, energy, nuclear, advanced manufacturing, sensors, AI, autonomy and resilient supply chains.

By bringing these sectors together, the cluster creates clearer pathways between research, industry, government and end users, helping translate cutting-edge and dual-use technologies into deployable solutions.

Strengthening the SME and supply chain ecosystem

Harwell supports SMEs to engage with MOD, prime contractors and procurement opportunities, helping smaller businesses access funding, build confidence and bring innovation into defence markets faster.

Through OBC RDSC, the cluster also strengthens communication between industry, investors, trade bodies, defence primes and government, improving visibility, guidance and access to new opportunities.

This supports innovation-led growth aligned with national defence and security priorities, helping build a stronger, more resilient UK defence supply chain.

Connecting partners, facilities and opportunity

The Defence and Security Cluster gives organisations access to world-leading facilities, collaborative research opportunities and a connected innovation community.

Whether you’re a start-up with breakthrough technology, an SME entering defence markets or an established organisation looking for partners, Harwell offers the ecosystem, expertise and opportunity to grow.