The Wales Defence & Security Cluster Steering Group provides the strategic leadership, governance

and direction for the Cluster. Formed by the founding members, the Steering Group is responsible for establishing the Cluster and guiding its development as a structured collaboration platform that supports the UK defence and security ecosystem while strengthening the Welsh industrial base.

The Steering Group ensures that the Cluster operates as a focused capability collaboration environment rather than simply a networking forum. Its role is to align industry, academia and government stakeholders around shared objectives that support national defence priorities, innovation and long term economic growth within Wales.

Working collectively, the Steering Group sets the strategic intent for the Cluster and defines the priority capability areas where Welsh organisations can contribute meaningful value. It provides oversight of Cluster activity, promotes coordinated engagement with government stakeholders and encourages practical collaboration between members to develop capability, pursue opportunities and strengthen supply chains.

Members of the Steering Group represent a cross section of the Welsh defence and security ecosystem, including SMEs, prime contractors, technology specialists, academic institutions and advisory organisations. This balanced representation ensures that the Cluster benefits from a combination of innovation, operational credibility and industrial experience.

The core responsibilities of the Steering Group include:

• Establishing the Cluster’s long term strategic roadmap
• Identifying priority capability areas relevant to defence and security needs
• Encouraging collaboration between industry, academia and government
• Supporting the development of joint programmes, funding opportunities and innovation initiatives
• Promoting sovereign capability development and resilient supply chains within Wales
• Championing Welsh capability within the wider UK defence and security landscape

The Steering Group also plays an important role in coordinating major initiatives that support defence related growth and capability development across Wales. Its focus is on enabling collaboration, supporting investment in innovation and ensuring that the Cluster contributes to long term economic and industrial impact.

Governance is delivered through scheduled meetings, structured reporting and defined workstreams. Decisions are made collectively, with a strong emphasis on transparency, accountability and measurable outcomes.

The Steering Group does not deliver programmes directly. Its role is to enable, guide and accelerate collaboration between members so that the Cluster can act as a catalyst for capability development, innovation and industrial growth.

Expressions of interest in engaging with the Steering Group or participating in Cluster initiatives can be submitted through the Cluster contact channels.