From a competition policy perspective, the defence sector is characterised by specific structures: procurement is predominantly carried out by public-sector buyers, projects are often complex and long-term in nature, and market entry for new suppliers is frequently subject to significant barriers. The Monopolies Commission examines the defence sector from a competition perspective. In doing so, it focuses in particular on the question of how procurement processes and collaborations can be structured in such a way as to maintain competition whilst at the same time taking account of the specific requirements of security and defence policy. The Monopolies Commission publishes its assessments of the defence sector in its main report and in statements.
