The Government recognises that for AUKUS Pillar II to realise its full potential, a truly whole-of-government approach is essential. To date, Pillar II has brought together defence, science and education communities, including academic partners, to support capability development. For example, as part of the Electronic Warfare Innovation Challenge, the University of Liverpool was awarded £179, 863.59, demonstrating how academia is contributing cutting-edge research and expertise alongside industry to advance Pillar II objectives. The Government hugely values SME engagement in Pillar II delivery. SMEs are represented at the Advanced Capabilities Industry Forum (ACIF) through their respective trade associations and have played a key role in the AUKUS Innovation Challenge Series. This creates structured, accessible opportunities for UK industry to collaborate and accelerate cutting-edge solutions across the trilateral partnership. In the first Innovation Challenge, of the four UK suppliers who were winners two were SMEs: Amiosec Ltd (which later merged with Penten to form PentenAmio) and Autonomous Devices Limited. These efforts are already helping to harness the agility and innovation of SMEs, and we remain committed to expanding their participation as Pillar II activity continues to scale. Expanding Pillar II