PREPARING THE FUTURE FORCE
DSEI 2025 will focus on the pivotal theme of ‘Preparing the Future Force’, reflecting the evolving needs of the UK's defence sector in an increasingly complex global landscape. Launched by UK Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin KBC ADC, the theme underscores the critical importance of preparing our Armed Forces to meet future challenges.
"What is particularly significant for our senior leaders is how we prepare our Armed Forces for future challenges."
UK Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin KBC ADC
TOMORROW'S INTEGRATED DEFENCE FORCE
The DSEI 2025 theme, "Preparing the Future Force," aligns with the UK Defence Secretary’s vision for a 2030 threat-focused integrated force.
This theme centres on the critical importance of agility and resilience across all defence domains, with a strong focus on enhancing collaboration with allied partners to overcome global security threats.
To achieve the 2030 Integrated Force Structure, the defence industry must undergo a step-change in its processes. This shift will impact everything from procurement and supply chain management to the functionality and design of defence products, ensuring that forces are equipped to respond swiftly and effectively to emerging threats.
"The significant buy-in from the top of UK defence is incredibly welcome and helps us to deliver the best event possible to our customers."
Grant Burgham - DSEI Director
KEY SUB-THEMES DRIVING DSEI 2025
SECURING ADVANTAGE
Agile Acquisition & Supply Chain Security.
In today's fast-paced world, agility is paramount. At DSEI 2025, we’ll explore how rapid innovation and secure, resilient supply chains are becoming the bedrock of modern defence. Discover how new procurement strategies and dual-use technologies are setting the stage for quicker, more efficient responses to emerging threats.
Core Topics: Modular 3D printing, Rapid innovation, Dual-use technology, Supply chain security
DRIVING ADVANTAGE
Digital Transformation as a Force Multiplier.
The digital battlefield is no longer a concept of the future—it’s the reality of today. From AI-driven decision support to quantum computing, DSEI 2025 delves into how digital transformation is reshaping warfare. Learn how these technologies are enhancing operational effectiveness and securing a competitive edge.
Core Topics: AI, Quantum computing, Autonomous systems, Cyber resilience
MAINTAINING ADVANTAGE
Workforce Management & Talent Acquisition.
People are the heart of defence. Yet, as the industry evolves, so too must our approach to workforce management. DSEI 2025 tackles the critical challenge of talent acquisition and retention, exploring innovative training methods and the integration of human-machine teams to ensure our forces are prepared for tomorrow’s battles.
Core Topics: Talent acquisition, Training innovation, Hybrid workforces, VR training
How the DSEI Theme is Chosen.
A COLLABORATIVE PROCESS
The theme for each edition of DSEI is meticulously crafted through a highly collaborative process that ensures alignment with the evolving needs of the global defence community, particularly the strategic objectives of the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD).
This process reflects our commitment to working hand-in-hand with the UK MoD and the wider defence community, ensuring that each DSEI theme not only addresses the challenges of today but prepares us for the future.
INSIGHTS & RESEARCH
Stage 1.
We begin by reviewing feedback from previous DSEI participants, including military leaders, industry experts, and policymakers, to identify the key challenges and topics shaping the future of defence. This is paired with in-depth market research, focusing on the most frequently cited issues and trends.
By combining these insights, we ensure that the theme addresses the real-world concerns of the defence community.
ALIGNING STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
Stage 2.
Next, we compare the findings with the current strategies of the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) and NATO, ensuring the theme aligns with their long-term objectives and reflects the most up-to-date defence priorities.
A draft theme is then prepared and sent to our Clarion military advisors for expert review, refining the theme’s focus to ensure it resonates with the sector.
COLLABORATION & FINAL SIGN-OFF
Stage 3.
The revised theme is shared with MoD 2* TLB participants, inviting input from senior military leaders. This collaboration ensures the theme reflects the strategic priorities of the UK Armed Forces.
After incorporating their feedback, the theme is finalised and officially signed off, underscoring our commitment to working closely with the UK MoD and defence industry to craft a theme that addresses both current and future challenges.
SECURE YOUR PLACE AT DSEI 2025 TODAY
DSEI is a pivotal opportunity to engage directly with key decision-makers, ensuring you can do business with those who matter most. This includes unrivalled access to the global defence industry, international governments, ministries of defence, and military officials, alongside all UK front line commands.
Featuring representatives from every defence domain, across the entire supply chain and from around the globe, DSEI fosters an environment of integration and collaboration at the greatest scale.