A new regional partnership has been formed to develop innovative ways to strengthen public security.

Hampshire County Council is leading the initiative, which will also create career and specialist skills training opportunities.

Known as the South Central Regional Defence and Security Cluster (SCRDSC), the collaboration spans Hampshire, Berkshire, the Isle of Wight, Surrey and West Sussex.

It includes the Ministry of Defence, the Defence and Security Accelerator, the Armed Forces, and businesses such as Airbus Defence & Space and QinetiQ.

Educational institutions and local authorities are also part of the initiative.

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The aim is to bolster the region's capabilities in defence and security, and to attract national and international investment.

Cllr Nick Adams-King, leader of Hampshire County Council, said: "Our role as an influencer and enabler is key and, at a time when national security increasingly relies on digital and data networks and robust cyber security, I am delighted we have been able to bring the right organisations together to establish the South Central Regional Defence and Security Cluster."

Vanessa Rueda Mata, head of sales for the United Kingdom, United States and Asia-Pacific for secure connectivity at Airbus Defence & Space, has been appointed chair of the SCRDSC.

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Vanessa said: "Airbus Defence & Space is proud to be at the heart of the county’s advanced manufacturing, digital technology and defence capability, with 12,000 employees in the UK.

"By creating this new cluster, we can help drive investment, boost regional productivity and contribute to the security of the UK while generating high-quality career opportunities."

In the coming months, the SCRDSC will focus on building its membership base and organising events aimed at increasing the level of Ministry of Defence innovation funding in the region for collaborative projects.

A new SCRDSC website will be launched in early 2025 to keep cluster members updated on upcoming events and funding opportunities.