Overview
ADS Group is a UK-based trade association established in 2009 through the merger of predecessor industry bodies. It represents organisations operating across aerospace, defence, security and space sectors. The organisation’s purpose is to support the competitiveness, growth and long-term resilience of these industries within the UK and internationally, acting as a collective industry voice.
ADS Group operates as a member-led, not-for-profit organisation. Its overarching philosophy centres on collaboration between industry, government and stakeholders to address policy, capability, skills and sustainability challenges affecting advanced manufacturing and technology sectors.
Mission and focus areas
ADS Group’s core mission is to advocate for member interests and strengthen sector performance through policy engagement, market development and industry coordination. It focuses on areas such as industrial strategy, exports and trade, regulation, innovation, supply chains and workforce skills.
Sustainability is an increasingly embedded theme, particularly in relation to decarbonisation, responsible defence and security practices, and long-term industrial resilience. While not a sustainable finance body, ADS Group contributes to ESG-related discussions by supporting members on environmental compliance, net zero pathways, supply-chain responsibility and governance standards relevant to capital allocation and risk management.
Structure and governance
ADS Group is governed by a board drawn from senior leaders across its member base, providing strategic oversight and sector representation. It is led by an executive team headed by a Chief Executive, supported by policy, membership, events and international trade functions.
The organisation operates through sector groups, committees and advisory forums, enabling members to engage on specific themes and influence collective positions. Partnerships with government departments, regulators and international bodies are central to its operating model.
Programs and offerings
ADS Group delivers a range of outputs including policy briefings, industry reports, market intelligence and consultation responses. It organises conferences, trade missions, exhibitions and member events that facilitate knowledge exchange and commercial collaboration.
Additional offerings include export support, regulatory guidance, sustainability resources and networking platforms. These services are designed to help member organisations navigate complex policy environments, manage risk and support long-term value creation across highly regulated and capital-intensive sectors.
Our purpose
ADS are proud to represent over 1,700 members from the UK’s innovative, entrepreneurial and prosperous aerospace, defence, security, and space sectors.
We work with those sectors to secure the UK’s advantage, enhance our international positioning as a go-to destination for innovation and deliver on our sustainable leadership goals.
Whether representing industry, connecting our members with business opportunities or driving forward innovation and growth, ADS is at the forefront of an array of activities, events and programmes that benefit our members.
