They met local industry representatives and academics.
Speaking at the event, Pollard said it was “a really good news day*.
“With our objective to open the defence industry and the MoD order book to more small businesses, Northern Ireland has this incredible opportunity now, because the talent, the expertise, the innovation, the ingenuity is present here,” he added.
“So now with the defence growth deal, with the other policies we’re pursuing to expand defence spending, there’s an opportunity to sell more of Northern Ireland’s expertise and kit into our own armed forces and to our allies as well.”
The NIO’s Patrick, said: “It is a vote of confidence, not just in the businesses of Northern Ireland – there’s lots of talent here – but in the people.
“It’s £50m investment into the economy of Northern Ireland, helping young people get good jobs, better jobs, helping small businesses expand that supply chain.
“Everyone that I speak to is thrilled with this deal, so I think we’re working positively across the executive, across businesses, to make this a real success.”