UK risks losing defence spending to overseas suppliers without procurement reform, Barclays says

• Barclays research warns unclear defense procurement risks benefiting overseas suppliers; 41% of UK businesses see greater reliance on imported technology.
• Without clearer procurement, 36% expect UK businesses to delay or reduce investment; 33% say defense technology firms could seek investment overseas.
• Some 65% want at least half of increased defense spending directed to companies operating and investing in the UK.
• A fast-track route from successful defense trials to government contracts has support from 61% of businesses.
• Financing remains a barrier: 26% lack confidence they could fund significant defense contracts’ upfront costs before payment.

Disclaimer: This news brief was created by Public Technologies (PUBT) using generative artificial intelligence. While PUBT strives to provide accurate and timely information, this AI-generated content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or legal advice. Barclays plc published the original content used to generate this news brief on October 27, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein.