Why Business Impact Analysis and Gap Analysis are the Most Cost-Effective First Steps for Defence Compliance
The UK defence sector is currently experiencing a period of intense activity. With the Ministry of Defence (MoD) committing to a sustained increase in spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2027, the opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are significant. However, for many business owners I speak with, this opportunity is accompanied by a […]
Preparing for DCC: A Step-By-Step Readiness Roadmap
IASME’s Defence Cyber Certification (DCC) was announced in May 2025, a certification scheme established by IASME with deep collaboration with UK MOD. Whereas previously it was not possible for a commercial organisation to meet MOD information assurance and supply chain resilience requirements until a contract had been put in place and the Cyber Security Model […]
Role of a Remote Security Manager in the UK Defence Supply Chain
The UK Defence supply chain is complex and reliant on many Small and Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs). In response to global tensions and increased capabilities and resources available to modern threat actors, SME’s have a growing responsibility to strengthen their defensive capabilities and security posture to protect the sensitive information they hold and in turn, […]
How a Security Management Plan can Prepare Defence SMEs?
Working with the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is an exciting prospect for any growing businesses. Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) make up about 95% of major UK Defence trade bodies, forming the essential foundation of national security. However, stepping into this sector means shifting from standard commercial habits, to a more disciplined and robust security […]
What Are the Most Common Pitfalls in Defence Cybersecurity and Resilience; How to Avoid Them?
Defence cybersecurity and resilience is now a core expectation and contractual requirement, for any organisation working with or supporting the UK defence industry. The Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) DEFCON 658 (Cyber Flowdown) and the Cyber Security Model (CSM) set out how cyber risk should be assessed and managed across defence contracts, while broader best practice […]
Is BPSS the same as a Security Clearance? A Guide for HMG and Defence SMEs
If you run any type of business that operates, delivers services to, or bids within the HMG or MOD environment, you have almost certainly asked this question at least once: “Is BPSS actually a security clearance?” The short answer is NO and getting this wrong can cost you contracts, delay onboarding, or even land you […]
Business Impact Analysis: Aligning Information Assurance with Operational Risk enabling Secure Decision-Making
What would happen to your business if you lost access to your critical information or customer data for just 72 hrs? For most UK Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in defence, aerospace, or professional services, the answer is lost revenue, damaged reputation, and possible exclusion from government contracts. Yet many business owners still treat information […]
The Role of FSC in Protecting Classified Defence Data
In the defence environment, a place where cutting-edge technology often intersects with national security, protecting classified information is paramount. From advanced weapon systems to strategic intelligence, the data driving these projects is a prime target for sabotage and espionage. The UK’s ability to protect its national interests and those of its allies depends on maintaining […]
Secure by Design: Embedding Resilience into Defence Supply Chains
Secure by Design (SbD) applies to the definition, acquisition, development, maintenance and disposal of information-based capabilities for MOD. This includes but is not limited to networks, applications, services, information technology, operational technology, platforms and weapons systems. In essence, Secure by Design is about delivering secure Products, Services and Solutions (PSS) which are fit for purpose […]
From DCC to FSC: Navigating Defence Cyber Compliance Frameworks
– Gareth Shaw, MD Pera Prometheus For many small and medium sized businesses, working with the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) can open valuable opportunities. Supplying goods or services to defence contracts can raise your profile, strengthen partnerships, and increase credibility. However, it also means that businesses will need to meet the security standard set […]