Exclusive Speaker reveal: DPRTE

Homeland March 23, 2026

The Defence Procurement Research and Technology Exhibition (DPRTE) 2026 is scheduled to take place this week at Farnborough International, marking a significant milestone in the UK’s annual defence procurement calendar.

As the Ministry of Defence continues to prioritise warfighting readiness, the event will focus on the transition of the supply chain from a logistical function to a critical strategic capability. With just a few days remaining until the exhibition commences, the Ministry of Defence has confirmed the attendance of several high-level officials who will outline the future requirements and structural changes within the UK defence ecosystem.

The inclusion of senior Ministry of Defence leadership provides a direct opportunity for industry stakeholders to align their operations with government objectives. Julie Brettell, the Defence Commercial and Industry Supply Chain Director at the Ministry of Defence, will lead discussions on the vision for a more integrated and robust industrial base. Her insights are particularly relevant for businesses seeking to understand the commercial strategies that will underpin the Ministry’s long-term engagement with the private sector. This strategic alignment is essential for both Tier 1 prime contractors and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) aiming to navigate the evolving procurement landscape.

Further technical detail regarding the modernisation of the defence network will be provided by Ed Fairhurst, Deputy Director of Supply Chain Architecture. His session will address how the Ministry of Defence is currently redesigning its supply chain frameworks to meet the demands of the digital age, focusing on resilience and transparency. Complementing this, Nathan Hinchliffe MCIPS, Head of Market Engagement for the Ministry of Defence Co-ordination Authority, will provide actionable information on how the department intends to coordinate and collaborate with industry partners. Understanding these engagement protocols is vital for suppliers looking to secure positions within the government’s comprehensive £288 billion equipment plan.

The delegation of speakers also includes Ange Baker, Programme Head at Ministry of Defence Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), and Fiona Cowan, SCRIPT-TL at the Ministry of Defence. Their presence ensures that the event covers the full breadth of the procurement cycle, from initial research and technology to delivery and support. As the final countdown to DPRTE 2026 begins, participation offers industry professionals a unique environment to engage with the decision-makers responsible for national security and procurement policy.

Limited tickets remain available for those seeking to participate in the UK’s primary procurement conversation. Interested parties are encouraged to secure their attendance via the official registration portal.