Key takeaways
6-step
methodology for component-level risk assessment
50+
critical raw materials mapped
5
government departments engaged for collaboration
- Delivered a first-of-its-kind component-level risk assessment methodology
- Enabled strategic insights using MOD’s global supply chain data
- Strengthened defence resilience through multi-agency collaboration and innovation
In 2024, Mace was appointed under the Unity framework to support the Ministry of Defence (MOD) on a key project within the Economic Deterrence Initiative (EDI), advancing the UK’s sovereign defence supply chain resilience.
Building on the DSF Supply Chain Resilience programme, Mace collaborated with MOD, DBT, Cabinet Office, DSTL and the Defence Industrial Joint Council to deliver a six-step risk assessment methodology. This tool is now available to be used to identify component-level vulnerabilities in defence contracts and includes mitigation strategies such as material substitution, recycling, international collaboration, and design adaptation.
A major outcome was the creation of a Defence-specific Critical Raw Materials (CRM) list, developed in response to the UK’s national CRM list published in November 2024. This bespoke list mapped CRM dependencies across defence systems and subsystems, from laptops and drones to new-build platforms, highlighting where shortfalls could disrupt delivery.
Using the DBT’s Global Supply Chain Intelligence Platform, Mace analysed global shipping data to identify bottlenecks and trade risks, particularly around Complex Weapons and countries of concern. These insights informed two MOD strategic reports on CRMs in Space and future weapons systems, now guiding procurement and investment decisions.
Amid geopolitical tensions, including the Russia–Ukraine conflict and China’s restrictions on Rare Earth Elements, this work enabled MOD to influence the government’s new Critical Minerals Strategy and is available to project teams to embed supply chain risk thinking into delivery - enhancing resilience across defence programmes.
