DASA launches battlefield innovation
The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) used this year’s Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) exhibition to showcase its role in driving UK defence innovation.
The body has launched a major medical competition and highlighting strong industry engagement.
At the event’s opening keynote, Minister of State Lord Coaker announced the novel technology for intervening in non-compressible haemorrhage competition.
Backed by £1.5 million in funding, it seeks new medical devices to tackle one of the leading causes of preventable battlefield deaths, with potential civilian applications.
Industry engagement and regional growth
DASA also hosted an Innovation in Support of Operations event, where 20 selected innovators pitched directly to Ministry of Defence officials. More than 100 applications were submitted for the limited slots, reflecting the strong appetite for collaboration.
Meanwhile, UK Defence Innovation confirmed a £1.5 million investment over two years for Regional Defence and Security Clusters. The funding aims to strengthen links between primes, SMEs, academia and local government to deliver solutions to frontline capability challenges.
Commercial impact and AUKUS links
DASA-funded suppliers also demonstrated commercial success. NW PRO, showcasing its AI-driven NexuSec and SensorSync platforms, reported strong interest from the defence sector. Recycling start-up Uplift360, initially backed by DASA, announced a major contract with Babcock to repurpose Typhoon jet components.
UK-funded suppliers from DASA’s Electronic Warfare competition were featured on the AUKUS stand, underscoring the importance of trilateral defence partnerships.
International attention
DASA’s stand attracted delegations from Australia, Canada, Belgium, Singapore and Eastern Europe, highlighting global interest in its rapid funding model.
With over 50 DASA-backed suppliers on show, the event reinforced the organisation’s role in connecting innovation with operational needs and strengthening the UK defence industrial base.
