Recommendation 23

An emphasis on pace is one of five key features of the new “Integrated Procurement Model” which the Minister for Defence Procurement announced on 28 February.73 For example, the MoD plans to get new capabilities into the hands of the Armed Forces more quickly by introducing them into service when the “minimum deployable capability”— 60% or 80% of the capability—has been developed, then adding the remaining capability when in service (this technique is sometimes referred to as ‘spiral development’). In our session, the MoD cited its modular approach to the Boxer armoured vehicle project to illustrate this method.74 The new procurement model also includes a joined-up approach based on “pan-defence affordability”; a new Integration Design Authority; prioritising exportability to maximise the potential market for UK-developed defence capabilities; and closer engagement with industry to encourage innovation and make supply chains more resilient.