Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he is taking steps to increase expertise on domestic semiconductor production in his Department.

The Defence Industrial Strategy sets out our approach to investing in and onshoring the necessary industrial capabilities for sovereign national security and to boost UK economic growth. It recognises semiconductors as a priority sub-sector critical to modern military platforms and UK defence manufacturing. The Ministry of Defence is therefore focused on ensuring secure, resilient access to these technologies to support national security.

For sensitive and classified applications, Defence requires an assured and trusted supply, including specialised compound semiconductors, where UK-based capability can be essential. An example of this Government’s commitment to action can be seen in its acquisition of Octric Semiconductors in September 2024.

The Department is also strengthening its expertise through a dedicated Category Management approach to semiconductors, improving demand signalling, market intelligence and risk management. This work is supported by close engagement with the Department for Science Innovation and Technology, the Department for Business and Trade, the Semiconductor Advisory Panel, industry and international partners, alongside ongoing analytical work, development of a Defence semiconductor strategy, and targeted investment in skills and capability.