Overview
The new National Armaments Director is bringing together the organisations responsible for developing the UK’s national arsenal, maximising their strength in science, digital, infrastructure, acquisition and support to deliver more value, innovation and capability for the UK Armed Forces.
Mr Start will discuss the progress made in establishing the new National Armaments Director Group, within the context of defence-wide reform and the outcomes of the Strategic Defence Review. He will focus on how UK defence is improving the way it develops, buys and supports capabilities – through the application of science, innovation, integrated kill webs and digitally enabled architectures – to drive growth and strengthen the UK’s deterrent.
He will also offer his thoughts on plans to leverage the new organisation’s unique position in the defence enterprise to strengthen the international partnerships and alliances that enable ongoing protection and prosperity for the UK and its allies.
Speaker's Biography
Andy Start was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Defence Equipment and Support, UK Ministry of Defence, in September 2022 and stepped up to act as the UK National Armaments Director in March 2025. Trained as an engineer, he spent the first decade of his working career in the space business, as a designer and programme manager of military satellite systems. His career progressed to leading a wide range of aerospace and defence businesses, specialising in helping improve performance and driving strategic change.
Andy Start
How to attend
This is in-person only members’ event will take place at RUSI, 61 Whitehall, London, SW1A 2ET. If you have any questions regarding this event, please email [email protected].
