ADS South West Defence & Security Forum
What is the ADS SW Defence & Security Forum
The ADS South West Defence & Security Forum (“the Forum”) provides a collaborative platform to connect industry, academia, and stakeholders across the region, enabling the exchange of insights, alignment of priorities, and effective two-way communication with national ADS structures. It ensures that South West capabilities and perspectives are represented at a national level while delivering relevant intelligence, opportunities, and strategic direction back to members.
What are the Forum's Objectives
Collaboration & Capability Building
- Enable collaboration between ADS South West and the ADS Defence Sector Team, supporting the facilitation of Sector activities across the region
- Foster stronger connections across primes, SMEs, academia, and public sector partners
- Promote the South West as a centre of excellence in defence and security capabilities
Regional Voice & Influence
- Capture and articulate South West defence and security priorities and insights
- Ensure regional perspectives are effectively communicated into the ADS Defence Sector Team and where appropriate, other forums such as the Defence Sector Council
National-to-Regional Flow
- Disseminate key updates, policy developments, and business development opportunities from the Defence Sector Council and ADS Defence Team
- Translate national strategies into actionable insights for South West members
SME Engagement & Growth
- Champion the strengths and capabilities of South West SMEs within the national trade association
- Facilitate access to supply chain opportunities, frameworks, and defence programmes
Academic & Skills Integration
- Strengthen collaboration between industry and academia to support innovation and R&D
- Address regional skills challenges by promoting education, training, and workforce development initiatives