DSEi can aid access to aerospace and defence markets

DSEi is the only UK-based defence exhibition to cover equipment, technology and systems for all three Armed Services. The show offers a variety of opportunities for UK engineering, electronics and manufacturing subcontractors to network and do business with both UK and international defence prime contractors and second-tier suppliers. DSEi provides a forum for gaining entry into everything from small-scale projects right up to collaboration on supply chains for major aerospace and defence programmes.

Practical, informative workshops

The defence procurement scene in the UK is changing in 2007 with the merger of the two existing procurement agencies - the Defence Procurement Agency and the Defence Logistics Organisation - to create a single body called Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S). DE&S will be responsible for the acquisition and through-life support of all equipment and services needed by the country's Armed Services. DSEi is once again running a series of SME-focused workshops in 2007 to help SMEs gain a better understanding of the defence procurement landscape.

Content will concentrate on areas such as debunking some of the myths associated with aerospace and defence supply chains as well as more detailed insight into procurement procedures. Ideas for facilitating contact between subcontractors, primes and second-tier suppliers, in order to identify potential customers, will also be explored. Workshops will be organised in conjunction with the DDA (Defence Diversification Agency) - a government body that helps companies understand how to do business with the MoD. Everyone from prime contractors and industry associations to MoD agencies are expected to participate and entry is free to all exhibitors.

Supporting first-time exhibitors

DSEi's First Time Exhibitor (FTE) Zone offers UK SMEs a highly cost-effective way to be part of one of the world's most prestigious defence showcases. At the last DSEi 140 UK companies took the opportunity to exhibit in the FTE Zone. The area was an instant draw to both procurement officials wanting to view clever new technologies and products as well as potential supply chain partners. A discounted rate is available in the FTE Zone.

For more information contact the DSEi team on +44 (0)20 8439 8888, email [email protected] or visit www.dsei.co.uk.

Reed Exhibitions, which organises DSEi, will be on stand F32 at Southern Manufacturing.