There is almost no communication about the industry's purpose - its products. These are taken as given and not communicated to wider audiences outside the defence world. Partly this is because of the controversial nature of those products of course. But I believe it is necessary to explain why these things are important to the UK if the industry wishes to avoid having a conversation only with itself at a time of huge public scrutiny.
In terms of our security, military success and international power and influence, the defence industry is part and parcel of the UK's place in the world. It is one of our remaining strengths in the face of US hegemony and the rise and rise of China and India. What kind of country do we want to be? Perhaps reviving a sense of pride in Britain is the real point that should be made to the public if the industry is to receive the support it would like.
