Why Security Is the Missing Link in the UK's Industrial Strategy

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If you’ve read the UK’s latest Industrial Strategy or the Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan, you’ll know there’s a bold vision for Britain’s future: to become the best place in the world to start, grow, and invest in advanced manufacturing by 2035.

Billions are being poured into innovation, automation, clean energy, and regional growth. But there’s a glaring omission in this otherwise impressive plan — one that could quietly undermine everything it sets out to achieve.

That missing link is security.

And I don’t just mean cybersecurity. I’m talking about the full spectrum of protection — from physical site security and access control to digital resilience, supply chain integrity, and insider threat mitigation. In short, the kind of integrated, risk-based security that underpins trust, continuity, and competitiveness in modern manufacturing.

Let me explain why this matters — and why we need to talk about it now.

The Industrial Strategy’s Blind Spot

The Industrial Strategy rightly focuses on growth sectors like batteries, aerospace, space, and advanced materials. It champions innovation, skills, and investment. But while it acknowledges the need for “economic security” and “resilience,” it stops short of embedding security as a strategic enabler of industrial success.

That’s a problem.

Because as manufacturers digitise, automate, and scale, they also become more vulnerable — to cyberattacks, IP theft, sabotage, and supply chain disruption. The more connected and complex the system, the more exposed it becomes.

The strategy talks about AI, robotics, and smart factories. But where’s the plan to secure them?

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Security Is Not a Cost — It’s a Catalyst

At Equilibrium Risk, we work with manufacturers across the UK. We see first-hand how security, when done right, doesn’t just protect — it enables.

Innovation thrives when R&D environments are secure from espionage and data leaks.
Supply chains stay resilient when physical and digital risks are mapped, monitored, and mitigated.
Compliance is easier when security controls align with ISO standards and regulatory frameworks.
Downtime is reduced when incident response plans are tested and ready.
Investment is de-risked when security metrics demonstrate operational maturity.

In other words, security isn’t a barrier to growth — it’s a foundation for it.

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The Manufacturing Sector Is a Prime Target

Let’s not sugar-coat it: UK manufacturers are under attack.

According to the National Cyber Security Centre, manufacturing is now the most targeted sector for cybercrime in the UK. From ransomware to phishing to supply chain compromise, the threats are real — and rising.

But it’s not just cyber. Physical breaches, insider threats, and even protest-related disruptions are increasing. And as the Industrial Strategy pushes for more regional clusters, gigafactories, and innovation hubs, the attack surface expands.

Without a coordinated, sector-wide approach to security, we risk building our industrial future on shaky ground.

What Needs to Change?

Here’s what I believe the UK government — and industry leaders — need to do:

Make security a pillar of the Industrial Strategy, not a footnote. It should be embedded in every sector plan, funding stream, and innovation programme.
Support integrated security management — combining physical, cyber, and operational risk into a single, strategic function. This is especially vital for SMEs who lack in-house expertise.
Fund security innovation alongside tech innovation. If we’re investing in AI and robotics, we must also invest in securing them.
Mandate security metrics in public-private partnerships. If taxpayer money is funding infrastructure, we need assurance it’s protected.
Promote security culture through training, awareness, and leadership. Security isn’t just a technical issue — it’s a mindset.

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Final Thought: Let’s Not Wait for a Crisis

The Industrial Strategy is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape the UK economy. But if we ignore the role of security, we risk building castles on sand.

Let’s not wait for a major breach, a supply chain collapse, or a regulatory scandal to act.

Let’s make security the strategic enabler it truly is — and ensure that the UK’s industrial future is not just innovative, but resilient, trusted, and secure.

If you’re a UK manufacturer looking to stay informed, protected, and proactive, don’t miss out on our monthly Manufacturing Security Insights newsletter. Each edition delivers expert analysis, practical tips, and the latest threat intelligence — tailored specifically for the manufacturing sector.

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This content has been generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI). While AI technology was used to draft and develop the initial content, it has been thoroughly reviewed, edited, and fact checked by Luke to ensure accuracy and relevance. We strive to provide high-quality and trustworthy information, but please be aware that AI-generated content may contain errors or omissions. We take full responsibility for the final content presented here and are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in our use of AI technology.