The defence industry operates in a world where security isn’t just a priority, it’s the foundation of every operation. To ensure this, the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) and other sensitive government entities require strict security conformance from businesses aiming to work with them. The modern supply chain’s complexity, with the defence industry’s reliance on civilian contractors, heightens these security concerns. To address this, standards like Facility Security Clearance (FSC), Industry Personnel Security Assurance (IPSA), Secure by Design, DEFSTAN 05-138, and Defence Cyber Certification (DCC) are in place. For businesses aspiring to work in the defence sector, navigating these requirements can feel challenging due to the lack of accessibility to necessary information. That’s where expert security consultants, familiar with MOD requirements and interpretation of MOD expectation come in, and choosing the right ones can make all the difference.
As a veteran-led consultancy with deep roots in the defence sector, Pera Prometheus has the expertise to guide businesses with confidence. This blog outlines key considerations for businesses when selecting a security consultant to meet defence assurance standards. Our MD, Gareth Shaw, puts it best: “Our team’s unique blend of experience, both within and outside defence, means we understand the intricacies of standards like FSC, IPSA, Secure by Design, and DEFSTAN 05-138. Our expert advice can be the bridge between complexity and success.”
Read more: DEFSTAN 05-138, Secure by Design, Physical Security
Why Defence Assurance Standards Matter
Defence assurance standards are designed to protect sensitive and classified information, ensure physical security, and safeguard national security. Whether you’re bidding for MOD contracts or aiming to be a trusted supplier in the defence supply chain, meeting MOD expectation with information and physical security is essential. But this is not just about meeting requirements, it’s about embedding security into your operations in a way that suits your business. The right consultants don’t just help you achieve standards; they help you build resilience in your organisation, establish the basis of a security culture which in turn builds trust with defence clients. With evolving threats like cyberattacks, culture, resilience and a mature approach to risk based security is also critical to remaining competitive through trust in your security.
Considerations for Choosing Security Consultants
Selecting the right security consultant for defence assurance is a critical decision. Here are key factors to consider, to ensure you find one who delivers results:
- Defence Industry Experience: Defence is unique, with its own protocols, terminology, and expectations. Consultants should have hands-on experience in the defence sector, like our veteran team at Pera Prometheus who understand the nuances of working with the MOD. They should also have a thorough understanding of the MOD’s hierarchical structure and its various departments. Look for consultants with a proven track record of supporting defence clients and who understand the interplay between information and cyber security.
- Expertise in Both Information and Physical Security: Defence assurance standards require a holistic approach. For example, DEFSTAN 05-138 sets out cybersecurity requirements to protect MOD information and IT systems across the supply chain, while FSC and IPSA focus on physical security and personnel security respectively, from secure facility layouts to personnel vetting processes. Your consultant should excel in all these areas to deliver best value to your business. Ask potential consultants how they integrate these standards to create a cohesive security framework for your business.
- Tailored Guidance for Security Compliance: Every business is different, varying in operations, structure, and resources. This means achieving MOD expectations may require tailored approaches while still meeting standards. This is especially true for businesses in the defence supply chain, where conformance is non-negotiable. Your consultant should offer practical, systematic guidance tailored to your business’s needs and capacity. Look for consultants who simplify complex processes, without compromising quality. Pera Prometheus has a 100% success rate in providing tailored guidance for Secure by Design, DEFSTAN 05-138, FSC, and IPSA.
- Knowledge of Defence Assurance Standards: A consultant must have in-depth knowledge and understanding of defence assurance standards as well as know where to obtain up to date information. As threats evolve, so do these standards. For example, the Defence Cyber Certification (DCC), developed by Information Assurance for Small and Medium Enterprises (IASME) and reported to be supported by UK MOD, is intended to strengthen the cyber resilience of the defence supply chain, through a formal, independently assessed certification process. Standards like Secure by Design encourage proactive security integration for products, services and solutions from the outset of projects. Over time, existing standards will evolve, and new ones may emerge. Ensure your consultant stays up to date. Ask for examples of how they’ve helped businesses adapt to new or updated standards.
- A Collaborative, Veteran-Led Approach: Defence compliance is a long-term commitment. Look for consultants who act as partners, not just advisors. Veteran-led firms like Pera Prometheus bring a unique perspective, having served in high-stakes environments and understanding what’s at stake. Seek consultants who work alongside your team to construct security frameworks that align with MOD standards, while supporting your commercial goals. Those who prioritise clear communication and ongoing support often provide practical solutions to continuously improve your security standards, giving you a competitive edge. As our MD says, “Our veteran roots mean we approach every project with discipline, integrity, and a commitment to getting it right.”
Practical Tip: When evaluating consultants, ask, “Can you share case studies of businesses similar to mine that you’ve helped achieve compliance?” This will give you insight into their experience and approach.
Take the Next Step
Choosing the right security consultant is about more than meeting MOD standards—it’s about building a foundation for long-term success in the defence industry and continuously improving security to remain competitive. At Pera Prometheus, we’re more than consultants; we’re your partners in navigating the defence security landscape. Our team, composed entirely of veterans, brings unrivalled expertise in information and cybersecurity, helping businesses achieve FSC accreditation, IPSA compliance, and more. We also share our knowledge through weekly blogs on our website and social media posts on platforms like Linkedin, keeping you informed about the latest information related to security.
Ready to take the next step towards defence assurance compliance? Contact our team today to learn how we can help you secure your future in the defence supply chain.
