The Dorset Defence and Security’s footprint is a significant part of the UK’s Defence and security supply base. Specialising in aerospace, materials, maritime, digital, defence consultancy and electronic engineering. Dorset is not shy of boasting world-class organisations which help to support the UK’s Defence and Security.
In addition to the private sector, there is a large MoD footprint in Dorset of military personnel working in research and development, capability, operations, training and support with a total annual operating budget of over £11 million and over 600 personnel permanently based in the region.
Some of the many companies related to the Defence and Security sector in Dorset include:
Eaton Mission Systems; currently employs 870 people, working directly with various aircraft manufacturers and aircraft operators to design, develop, deliver and support Air-to-Air Refuelling.
HeliOperations; provides bespoke aviation training and delivery of operational services to a vast array of clients, ranging from Superyacht owners to Government departments.
Gama Aviation; with locations across the UK, they provide the mission expertise to assist governments and businesses in exploiting a variety of aviation assets.
NORCO Composites & GRP; manufactures world-class machinery such as eVTOL concept aircraft and Sea Class Workboats.
IAP; designs, deliver, operates and maintains equipment and facilities on a global basis, including operations such as Equipment & Systems Solutions, Facilities and Infrastructure Services, Facility Operations & Management, and Support Services.
Atlas Elektronik UK; is world-renowned for its innovative maritime systems, including its autonomous minesweeping system which is used by the UK.
Coda Octopus; has unique and world leading 3D sonar technology, EchoscopeTM generates high-resolution images of subsea scenes in real-time.
BAE systems; provide some of the world’s most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions across the air, maritime, land, cyber, space and digital intelligence domains.
Telesoft; delivers high-rate cyber security and telecom solutions to governments, telcos and the defence market.
KDC Projects; is an end-to-end engineering services provider backed by deep technical expertise, established methodologies, and technology application.
Battlelab; is home to end-users from different trades and specialisations across Defence; people placed to help collaborators navigate the MoD and make engagement more accessible.
Maritime UK Southwest; Dorset and the South West of England present a key opportunity to benefit from the unique capabilities of the UK’s largest maritime cluster and provide solutions across growing industries.
SWRDSC; the first pan-Defence and Security cluster in the UK, the cluster seeks to aggregate and raise the profile of regional D&S capability to stimulate greater sector knowledge, business, economic growth and productivity across the South West region.
Ultra Electronics CEMS; has been providing safety-critical, high-reliability Contract Electronics Manufacturing Services (CEMS) to the Defence, Aerospace, Oil & Gas, and other harsh environment markets for over 60 years.
There are a range of educational providers in the region, which help to deliver exceptional courses relating to defence and security.
Bournemouth University’s world-leading researchers closely look into Design and engineering, computing and informatics, cyber security, disaster management, creative technology and life and environmental sciences.
Arts University Bournemouth has AUB’s innovation studio which operates as a lab for creative technology research and provides a hub for industry R&B projects. Their Associate's Programme supports established businesses with support through access to their expertise and extensive equipment.
Kingston Maurward College offers a Level 2 Diploma in Preparation for Military Service, designed to provide a clear insight into military and life and the necessary skills to pass all the Tri-Service selection processes. They also offer a Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Military preparation, designed to provide the skills and understanding of what is required to join the military. Experiencing hands-on delivery by participating in military camps and receiving training from different regiments, ensuring students are well-equipped to enter the military after their studies.
Weymouth College provides a range of studies in the sector, including a Level 2 Diploma in Preparation for Military Service and a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Uniformed Protective Services. Each course ensures students gain knowledge and understanding of the skills required for success in current and future employment.
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Invest in Dorset is a team of economic development professionals across Dorset dedicated to helping companies and investors identify investment or expansion opportunities in Dorset, ensuring they all get all the support they need to be successful here.