Most SMEs don’t fail because they can’t do the work.
They fail because they misunderstand the work.
Here are the three biggest misconceptions:
1. “The OEM will tell us exactly what to do.”
No. Defence OEMs assume suppliers already know the standards.
2. “Our technology speaks for itself.”
It doesn’t. Documentation always speaks louder.
3. “We can become a supplier in a few months.”
Realistic timelines: 6–18 months for entry, sometimes longer.
And the most dangerous misconception of all:
👉 “We are too small to matter.”
Some of the most critical parts in Europe’s defence ecosystem come from companies with fewer than 20 employees.
