Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) snapshot

Launched in 2016 in support of the 2015 Strategic Defence and Security Review, the Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Portfolio is one of the UK’s most ambitious long-term infrastructure programmes. Its goal: to modernise, reduce, and improve the defence estate so it better supports future military capability.

This infographic provides a snapshot of the DEO Portfolio. The DEO aims to reduce the size of the built estate by 30% by 2040, ensuring it is better aligned with the needs of a modern, agile military force. The infographic highlights key milestones, from the programme’s inception to recent governance improvements and sustainability achievements.

It showcases landmark projects- past and present - that reflect how the estate is being reshaped to support operational readiness, troop wellbeing, and environmental goals. It also illustrates how three core organisations - the MoD, Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), and Crown Commercial Service (CCS) - work in partnership to deliver this nationwide transformation efficiently and effectively.