Organisers of Defence Procurement, Research, Technology & Exportability (DPRTE) 2026 have announced the first slate of new speakers, headlined by Victoria Cope, Commercial Director of Defence Digital . This announcement builds upon the earlier confirmation of the UK’s National Armaments Director, Rupert Pearce, as the event’s keynote, and establishes a strong agenda focused on industrial strategy, sovereign capability, and supply chain innovation.
Victoria Cope’s session will provide a critical industry-government perspective on strengthening the UK’s global defence footprint. As Commercial Director of Defence Digital, she is at the forefront of identifying and championing the innovative capabilities within the UK supply chain, making her insights invaluable for companies seeking to align with national export priorities and technology roadmaps. Her participation signals a clear focus at DPRTE on tangible growth and international market opportunities for UK businesses.
Representing the Ministry of Defence’s strategic commercial direction, Sherin Aminossehe, Director of Growth and Missions, is also confirmed. Her address will offer delegates direct insight into the MOD’s long-term strategy for developing the UK’s defence industrial base, with a particular emphasis on fostering innovation and enhancing SME engagement. This session will be essential for suppliers seeking to understand future procurement and partnership frameworks.
Providing the perspective from the UK’s defence manufacturing sector, Andrew Kinniburgh, Director General of MAKE UK Defence, will address the opportunities and challenges facing the industrial supply chain. His contribution will be complemented by a focus on digital transformation from Dr Annie Iakovaki, Head of Industrial Supply chains at Digital Catapult, who will explore the integration of advanced technologies within defence procurement. Rounding out this first announcement, Professor Luke Butler of the University of Nottingham will provide an essential legal analysis of the public procurement regulatory landscape, offering practical guidance for businesses tendering for defence contracts.
More announcements coming soon.
Post written by: Vicky Maggiani
Vicky has worked in media for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.
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