The Future of Defence Hiring

Building Talent Pipelines for a New Era

The UK defence sector is on the cusp of a major transformation. With government spending set to rise to 2.5% of GDP by 2027—and potentially 3.0% in the next Parliament—employers must act now to secure the talent needed to meet growing operational demands.

But the challenge isn’t just about numbers. It’s about readiness. The sector faces a perfect storm of STEM skill shortages, lengthy vetting processes, and fierce competition from tech and engineering industries. Traditional hiring models are no longer fit for purpose.

To stay ahead, defence employers must shift their focus in three key areas:

1. Invest in internal talent development

Reskilling and upskilling are no longer optional—they’re essential. With limited access to overseas talent and a shrinking pool of security-cleared candidates, organisations must unlock the potential within their existing workforce. This means identifying transferable skills, especially in areas like cybersecurity and AI, and building structured development pathways.

2. Embrace aptitude over credentials

In fast-moving fields, formal qualifications often lag behind real-world needs. Defence employers should prioritise adaptability, problem-solving, and sector familiarity—qualities often found in Armed Forces leavers. These individuals bring mission-critical experience and, crucially, existing security clearance.

3. Choose the right recruitment partner

Not all recruiters are equipped for the unique demands of the defence sector. Partners with security-cleared consultants and a deep understanding of the Armed Forces community can bridge the gap between military and civilian roles, accelerating hiring and improving retention.

At LHH, we have a dedicated team of security-cleared consultants with deep expertise in defence, aerospace, and engineering. We specialise in sourcing niche, highly skilled talent for critical roles - quickly and compliantly.

Download the full whitepaper here to explore the strategies shaping tomorrow’s defence workforce.

Or get in touch with our Defence & Aerospace team by completing the enquiry form to discuss how we can support your hiring needs.