Boeing Defence UK (BDUK) is inviting UK-based Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to express their interest in participating in a free training programme that connects UK SMEs with the UK defence industry.

The programme consists of a series of training events and will be conducted in person.

Both existing and potential new suppliers to BDUK are welcome to apply.

The Cluster Training events will take place at Boeing's Bristol site with opportunity to meet at other Boeing UK or industry sites and will cover a variety of topics delivered by a specialist 3rd Party and Boeing guest speakers.

The selected suppliers will complete the ADS Supply Chain Solution (SCS) Baseline Maturity Assessment (BMA), which helps identify the specific development needs of each supplier, curating the training programme according to participant needs.

Attendance to the training events will be free of charge, but any travel costs are to be borne by the participant.

The Cluster Training also provides the opportunity for support including a follow-up 1-1 session with the BDUK Supply Chain Social Governance team.

The exact dates, topics and address will be provided in the formal invitation sent to the attendees.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about doing business with Boeing and will be provided with a point of contact to support introductions to Boeing.

Attendees can learn more about the benefits of ADS Supply Chain Solutions SC21 and how they can get involved.

Attendees will have the opportunity to arrange follow up sessions with Boeing procurement teams to discuss and showcase their business capabilities.

Attendees will be invited to join the Boeing Capability Assessment Database and be supported with advice on next steps.

BDUK is particularly interested in hearing from tier 1 and tier 2 UK-based SMEs with capabilities in Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO), Composite Fabrication/Repair, Wiring Bundles, Special processes/treatments, Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and Paints, Oils, Lubricants and Sealants (POLS) suppliers.

To be considered for the 2026 Cluster Training Program, interested parties must provide an Expression of Interest to BDUKSupplyChain@boeing.com by 17:00 (BST) on 27th March 2026, for the attention of 'Cluster Training Programme 2026'.

Application forms will be issued by 30th March 2026.

Applications should be sent to BDUKsupplychain@boeing.com by 17:00 (BST) on 3rd April 2026.

All applications will aim to be responded to by 13th April 2026.

If you are a member of JOSCAR, please include your membership number in your response.

A review of all submissions will take place, and selected applicants will receive an invitation to complete an online ADS SCS SC21 Basic Assessment.

Successful applicants will then receive a formal invitation to join the programme including further training details and planned dates.