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Issue 128 March 2019 the magazine for defence equipment des and support
Innovation Edition Together we challenge established thinking to transform ideas into a reality beyond expectations
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15003 KBR Space Desider Advert_PRINT.indd 1 27/02/2019 17:46 elcome to a special These programmes will require Forewordedition of Desider that all of us at DE&S to challenge Wcelebrates the drive at ourselves and work with the front DE&S to be at the forefront of line commands and industry to innovation, encouraging fresh come up with even better and thinking across all corners of the more innovative ways of thinking Defence community. leading to delivery. Over the years, DE&S has built up a track- record of applying innovative "These programmes will require all of us at DE&S to challenge thinking to deliver solutions to urgent operational requirements ourselves and work with the front line commands and industry and to solve complex problems in our core programmes. We to come up with even better and more innovative ways of can build on this experience and knowledge and look to deliver thinking leading to delivery" greater levels of innovation to the Inside you will read about front line as a matter of routine. some of the many inventive We must adopt a more agile programmes and projects approach to Defence to provide DE&S teams are currently the very best equipment and delivering, including Unmanned support to our armed forces, Aerial Vehicles keeping firing who have the vital role of ranges safe, Team Tempest’s protecting our nation against work to develop the UK’s next ever-changing and increasingly generation fighter aircraft and serious threats. the introduction of state-of- Last month saw another the art seats that reduce the impressive list of DE&S physical impact on small boat achievements. I was delighted users. to visit DECA Sealand to We also have contributions congratulate our workforce on from some of the key people securing the deal that sees the across the MOD involved in UK awarded £500 million of making sure innovation is at work by the US Department of the heart of everything the Defence to support the cutting- department does – today and edge F-35 jets as a global repair into the future. hub. These include DE&S’ very It is an enormous privilege in own Tim Rowntree, Director my role to meet DE&S teams Engineering and Safety, as well and I am always struck at the as Vice-Chief of the Defence dedication, pride and positivity Staff General Sir Gordon on show. By Sir Simon Bollom, CEO Messenger, Director Defence Our Flight Simulators and Innovation Clare Cameron, MOD Synthetic Trainers team delivered Chief Scientific Adviser Simon a £44 million High- G training Cholerton and Deputy Chief of facility at RAF Cranwell that will Defence Staff (Military Capability) revolutionise fast jet pilot training Air Marshal Richard Knighton. in the Royal Navy and RAF. There are also case studies And the first fuel tanks with members of the DE&S supporting the UK’s new fleet of Technology Office underlining submarine hunting aircraft – the what a dynamic and energising RAF P-8A Poseidon fleet - have place DE&S is to work at rolled off the production line in and the potential to harness Cambridge. innovation to the benefit of our Finally, I must recognise forces in the front line. Devonport super apprentice We have been given a key Phoebe Loveridge. Phoebe won role by the Defence Technology the MOD Apprentice of the Year and Innovation Board in award last month after already delivering some very significant winning the National Institute of future innovation initiatives, Engineering and Technology title, including the ‘Spearhead' and the Bridgwater and Taunton programmes. The article by College Apprentice of the Year. Geoff Spour, DE&S’ new What a credit you are to Spearheads Portfolio Team DE&S. Leader, gives an excellent outline of this activity.
3 Editor: Tom Morris - 9352 37888 or 0117 9137888 [email protected]
Innovation edition assistants: Rachel Crease and Clive Langmead
Contributors: Laura Martin Plaza, Louise Allford, David Copsey, Tom Knight, Hugh Woodward, Brigadier Graham Finch, Alex Barnett, Derek Shaw, Samantha Nicholas, Vicki Lucas and Major 09 Chares Ross
Photography and Design: Katherine Williams, Charlie Perham, Jack Eckersley, Beth Squire, Andrew Linnett and Mark Hawke
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4 desider March 2019 Feature Contents 06 Senior Leader 20 State-of-the-art On the cover Comment – Director High-G training and Innovation edition Engineering and test facility for fast jet Safety, Tim Rowntree pilots opened at RAF Photo by: Cranwell Various from Creative Team, Innovation 29 DE&S star Phoebe Defence Imagery and industry Loveridge named MOD 07 Meet the key Apprentice of the Year leaders in Defence innovation Innovation 08 DE&S team address boat shock and Features vibration issues 23 Geoff Spour, newly 12 Cutting-edge appointed Spearhead unmanned aerial Portfolio team leader, vehicles making firing talks to Desider about ranges safer why DE&S is at the heart of innovation 13 DE&S employee develops a tool that 24 Hurricane hell: Clive revolutionises data Langmead tells Desider entry how one of his darkest moments led to one of 14 DE&S playing key role his brightest ideas in Future Combat Air System Technology 26 Innovation flashback Initiative 22 Zephyr 8 UAV set DE&S People to take to skies in First Person – Deputy Australia 16 head in the DE&S Technology Office News Alastair Goodson 09 First two world 28 60 Second Spotlight – class Ares vehicles DE&S Technology Office formally delivered to Technical Specialist British Army Emily Saunders 15 First fuel tanks 31 DE&S People – DE&S www.gov.uk/government/publications/desider-2019 supporting the celebrate new parents Twitter: @DefenceES UK’s new RAF P-8A with inaugural Keeping Facebook: @DefenceES Poseidon aircraft fleet in Touch event roll off production line LinkedIn: Defence Equipment & Support 34 Jobs – Desider’s latest YouTube: DE&S 18 UK’s role as a leading recruitment pages and partner on the global benefits F-35 programme receives huge boost 5 desider March 2019 Senior Leader Comment
Tim Rowntree, Director Engineering and Safety, gives three reasons why the Defence Innovation challenge is not only necessary – but a huge opportunity for DE&S
his edition of Desider do this. I see three key reasons thought and flexibility, it also showcases some of the why the Innovation challenge needs strong discipline and a amazing innovation presents a great opportunity for DE&S is well high level of competence. This Talready happening across everyone in DE&S: will be essential to feed the right DE&S. With its experience right • We already have a placed to play initiatives and to decisively stop across the Defence Acquisition strong capability to build on, a key role at work that is not productive. portfolio, from the smallest with professional depth across • DE&S has already been commodity items to the Queen all functions within a strong the very heart given a key role right at the Elizabeth Class Carriers, DE&S programme management culture of the Defence centre of the Defence Innovation is well placed to play a key role and framework. Innovation Innovation programme. With the full at the very heart of the Defence happens in an environment support of our CEO, DE&S has Innovation initiative. These are, where everybody gets involved, initiative clearly signalled that it is ‘open for simultaneously, both exciting taking on a shared challenge business’ in the innovation space. and daunting times for UK with true diversity of thought. Recognising this, the December Defence. Exciting because we DE&S provides this environment, 2018 Defence Technology and have the potential to equip our stimulated, where appropriate, by Innovation Board agreed that armed forces with step-change greater empowerment, acceptance DE&S will play a leading role technologies to bring new of higher risk and the willingness in supporting the Front Line and highly potent capabilities; to experiment. Commands and Head Office daunting because most of today’s • We are perfectly placed in the delivery of a group of high-end technologies are equally to support both Head Office ‘Spearhead’ programmes. These available to our enemies as to and the Front Line Commands. Spearheads are a high-profile ourselves. The warning signs From its central position, DE&S portfolio of projects that will of cyber, drones and artificial can bring coherence across all develop and test our ability to intelligence are out there, so it is areas of Defence and provide an deliver cutting-edge capabilities vital that we embrace these new expert commercial interface with faster and more effectively. This developments, move quickly and industry. This will enable us to puts DE&S at the centre of the maintain the edge. This will mean work cooperatively with the Front Innovation challenge. embracing risk and finding new, Line Commands, Defence Science Taken together, these three more agile ways of working. In and Technology and Head Office reasons give DE&S a massive partnership with Head Office, to develop the best and remove boost. The future looks bright! industry, the Defence Science and duplication while protecting our Technology community and the longer-term interests. Although Front Line Commands, DE&S can innovation requires freedom of
6 desider March 2019 Innovation
Defence Innovation - views from the key players
Deputy Chief of Defence Staff (Military Capability) Air Marshal Richard Knighton
“As a department we need to be more comfortable embracing risk to find new, agile ways of delivering capability to the front line. DE&S will be key to making this happen and I welcome their strong support.”
Clare Cameron, Director Defence Innovation
“I am delighted to be the new Director Defence Innovation. One of the first daunting things I had to Vice Chief of Defence Staff General Sir do was take the Spearheads Portfolio to the Investment Gordon Messenger Approvals Committee – all the collaborative work that the was delighted to be asked Defence needs, and in attracting teams had done already meant to say a few words for this and retaining the young talent and we got the approval. However, Desider innovation issue relevant skills that we will depend it proved that the very top Ibecause I am convinced of the upon for future success. We in of the MOD is receptive and pivotal role that DE&S will play Defence must also leverage our prepared to test themselves and in the modernisation of Defence. unique offer and proactively foster display innovative behaviours. The simple fact is that, to provide the ability to excite and inspire our So we now need to live up to effective defence against the people. Innovation has to be at the the faith that has been put in ever-evolving threats of the 21st heart of this. us, and empower the teams Century, we need to think and do DE&S has grasped the challenge to deliver this portfolio. While things differently – we need to be and taken a key role at the the Spearheads portfolio is the innovative. heart of the Defence Innovation first case of its kind, we should This era of rapid technological Initiative. This includes supporting continue challenging ourselves development will require a new the delivery of the Spearhead to break down the barriers to approach to the way we procure programme, designed to test and innovation and promote the and support our equipment. develop our ability to balance risk innovative behaviours that we Dynamism and flexibility will against benefit in a much more want to see in our be critical facets of a system that dynamic environment than we are workforce.” ensures a strategic edge to counter used to. We must experiment to threats and deter aggression learn and to succeed. We must also before situations escalate. Such be prepared to fail, but we should Simon an approach requires us to be a aim to fail quickly and safely, learn Cholerton, learning organisation, to adapt as valuable lessons and move on. MOD Chief we go and to have the discipline to This will test all of us in Defence Scientific know when to stop projects that Acquisition, including Head Adviser are not delivering. We will need Office, the Capability Customer, agility, creativity and a willingness Defence Science and Technology “Science and to take the right amount of risk. I and of course industry. It will drive Technology has recognise we have some way to go. us to find new ways of working to never been more important People are the critical enabler bring us cutting-edge ideas and for the armed forces. With the of success in this endeavour. technologies to protect our future. pace of technological change, Innovation and people must These are exciting times, and in we need innovative and agile be inextricably bound together my role as Chair of the Defence projects, such as the Spearhead through an ‘innovative by instinct’ Technology and Innovation Board projects, to ensure we can pull culture in the DE&S of the future. I am delighted to have the great through latest cutting-edge Such a culture will be essential in expertise and commitment of technology from both the civil developing the modern, energetic, DE&S on board for the journey sector and the MOD core future-looking workforce that and the challenges ahead. research programme.”
7 desider March 2019 Innovation
An absorbing way to reduce the physical toll experienced by boat crews Pictured: CSS Boats team leader Alistair Hughes at Portsmouth (Picture by Beth Squire)
uring some manoeuvres, – there was a lack of objective, used to select seats for more than the g-forces felt by Designing the scientific measures due to the 250 UK boats, including those boat crews on military absences of any recognised British which perform essential roles, protocol called for Doperations can be similar to those or international standards. such as the Arctic models used felt by Formula 1 drivers. some lateral thinking How, then, could a level playing by the Royal Marines, the Pacific With this stark fact in mind, the and confident field be created? models employed by the Royal DE&S Commercially Supported engineering, but To begin, the team developed Navy, the Gibraltar Defence Police Shipping (CSS) Boats team has the result was a an entirely new testing protocol, interceptors, diving boats, and been discovering ways to upgrade framework which specifically designed to Riverine Patrol and Rigid Raiding hundreds of in-service boats to had lasting benefit allow objective performance craft. make them safer for operators on measurements. Alistair said: “As with all design the front line. not only for us but Subsequently, in 2016, more challenges, there was plenty of The majority of boats have fixed the wider Defence than 20 seats from several different wider context to consider. seats, meaning users generally community manufacturers were tested, with “Several boat types needed have to absorb shock and vibration results forming a key element of modifications to accommodate through their own bodies. Harsher Alistair Hughes, CSS Boats seat selection for each type of boat. the additional weight of the seats, conditions and sea-states can even team leader CSS Boats team leader Alistair while comprehensive testing was encourage boat users to stand and Hughes said: “The key for the needed to ensure safety and that use their knees as shock absorbers new protocol was to discover and they could perform essential rather than rely on the seats to measure improved performance military operations, such as absorb the impact. without causing knock-on effects, delivery by air. With the help of the Naval or even harm, in other areas. “The MOD’s work in this area Design Partnering team, the “Designing the protocol called has been genuinely world-leading, Boats team put their expertise to for some lateral thinking and vastly improving the mitigation of work, leveraging knowledge of the confident engineering, but the shock and vibration for our people market to seek to buy and fit state- result was a framework which had who operate in small boats.” of-the-art suspension seats for a lasting benefit not only for us but Seats have already been fitted to range of different craft. the wider Defence community.” over 100 craft, with the remaining The problem? The industry The test which the MOD 150 boats to be completed by tends to be dominated by small developed attracted interest from March 2020. companies making largely several partner nations, including anecdotal claims about the Canada and Holland. performance of their products Ultimately, the protocols were
8 desider March 2019 News
First two cutting-edge Ares armoured vehicles delivered to British Army Pictured: The Ares vehicles were delivered to the British Army at Bovington (Picture courtesy of General Dynamics UK)
he first two Ares vehicles – is the first step in providing the this world-class, next generation variants of the Ajax family Not only is this a armed forces with world-beating capability.” of armoured vehicles – have multi-role, mounted fighting and The six variants in the Ajax Tbeen formally delivered to the momentous milestone reconnaissance capabilities fit for programme are due to come British Army. for the project, it is an the future.” into service in 2020, providing a The handover, on February exciting time for our In all, General Dynamics Land full suite of medium armoured 14, came after the successful soldiers, who will now Systems–UK will deliver 589 vehicles and capabilities. completion of general acceptance begin training with Ajax vehicles across six different testing at the General Dynamics’ this world-class, next variants – Athena, Ajax, Ares, factory in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales. generation capability Apollo, Atlas and Argus – to the Following the handover, the British Army. two vehicles will be based at the Major General Colin The Ajax fleet provides Armour Centre in Bovington, McClean, Director Land a step-change in capability Dorset, which is the British Army’s Equipment used by the British Army and centre of excellence for training incorporates cutting-edge and in the core skills of armoured proven technology to provide an warfare. unparalleled balance of protection, The centre trains soldiers in weight and agility. driving and maintaining armoured They will be the ‘eyes and fighting vehicles, as well as ears’ of the British Army on operating vehicle weapons systems the battlefields of the future. and communications equipment. The new vehicle will give the Huw Cable, Head of the Army enhanced intelligence, Vehicle Demonstration and surveillance, protection, target Manufacture team at DE&S, said: acquisition and reconnaissance “I am delighted that we have now capabilities for decades to come. handed over the first two Ares to Major General Colin McClean, our colleagues in the British Army, Director Land Equipment, added: who will now put the vehicles “I am hugely proud of everyone through their paces. who has been part of this journey “This is a significant step – not only is this a momentous forward for the Ajax programme, milestone for the project, it is an marking the commitment of exciting time for our soldiers, all involved in the project and who will now begin training with
9 desider March 2019 News In Brief
DE&S senior staff appointments DE&S CEO Sir Simon Bollom has announced two senior staff appointments. Adrian Baguley, currently Director Programmes, will take over the post of Chief of Materiel (Joint Enablers) when Pete Worrall retires at the end of March. In addition, Rear Admiral Chris Gardner, on promotion to Vice-Admiral, will take up the post of Chief of Materiel (Ships), taking over from Neal Lawson, who had served as interim. He comes to DE&S from his role as Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Ships). Min DP praises DE&S staff during visit Sir Simon said: “The strength Minister for Defence be agile, so it can adapt to ever- of the Ships leadership team going Procurement Stuart Andrew changing threats. forward is now well-positioned paid tribute to DE&S employees, The Minister, who was to deliver the considerable thanking them for the introduced by DE&S CEO Sir programme of work in the Ships “astonishing amount” of work Simon Bollom, told staff: “I want domain and I am personally they do during a town hall at to say, first of all, two words that looking forward to working with MOD Abbey Wood. are not said enough, and that is Chris, Neal, Henry Parker and the The Minister, who visited the thank you. Thank you for what rest of the team.” site on February 7, commended you do for Defence and the work He added: “I knew it would recent successes for DE&S, that you do. be no easy task to find a worthy including the Army Warfighting “I know that you deal with successor to Pete in this role Experiment at Salisbury, Queen very complex projects against where he has been outstanding, Elizabeth Carrier class and F-35 incredibly challenging timescales, but I am delighted that Adrian fighter jet milestones and the spending an enormous amount will come in to lead the Joint successful integration of weapons of time going through things in Enablers portfolio, where onto Typhoon. incredible detail - and I want his wealth of acquisition He also highlighted the you to know it’s appreciated. The and defence knowledge, and changing world we now live in amount you do on behalf of the previous experience as Director and the necessity for defence to MOD is just astonishing.” Helicopters, will continue the positive momentum in the Joint Enablers domain.”
Inspiring Innovation event in May DE&S will be hosting the third will be keynote talks spread annual Inspiring Innovation event throughout day two. Assorted on May 15 and 16, 2019. workshops and activities will take During this unique event place across the site on both days. organisers will be exploring how Organisers say Inspiring DE&S can deliver at pace to Innovation will demonstrate that maintain battle-winning edge and there is potential for innovation promoting the need for defence across all functions and areas to increase its appetite for risk within DE&S. It is hoped this to deliver true innovation to the event will inspire, educate and front line. connect DE&S personnel, proving DE&S staff can expect keynote that innovation is an essential part talks, workshops, interactive of the organisation's DNA. activities and a site-wide networking day connecting internal project teams, defence primes and outside industry and businesses. Throughout day one, each of the four neighbourhoods at Abbey Wood, Bristol, will host company and project stands, whilst there
10 desider March 2019 News In Brief
End of an era for Tornado jets After almost 40 years serving retired from service at the end of the UK on military operations March and will only be used for across the world, iconic RAF training purposes over the UK in Tornado jets have returned home the intervening period. As part for the last time. of the second flight three of the First entering service in 1979, aircraft passed over MOD Abbey Calling all SMEs the fast jets have been used in Wood on February 20. The Special Projects operations across the world, most Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Programme Delivery Group at recently fighting Daesh to push Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier, said: DE&S are hosting an Industry the terrorist group back through “We can all take immense pride in Day as part of the Three Counties Syria and Iraq. what the Tornado has achieved in Defence and Security Expo They returned from operations defence of the nation over nearly (3CDSE) and want to hear from for the final time, flying into RAF four decades, and reflect back on interested small and medium- Marham on February 5. the courage, commitment and sized enterprises (SMEs). The weapons capabilities of the achievements of everyone who The day, on July 16, 2019, soon-to-retire Tornados are now has contributed to the success of provides the opportunity to being delivered by RAF Typhoon this extraordinary aircraft.” To hear about the vision and future jets, which will continue to take mark their retirement a series programme of work, with the a leading role in the Coalition’s of three farewell flights were Joint Forces Command Special mission against Daesh. arranged. Projects capability sponsor The Tornado will be officially and delivery teams from DE&S presenting their specialist portfolios and running a range of smaller breakout sessions to BFPO launches guide discuss their work in more detail. DE&S CEO Sir Simon Bollom services and ensuring their mail is Ian Smith, Head of the Special visited the British Forces Post delivered as quickly and efficiently Projects Programme Delivery Office (BFPO) to launch a handy as possible. Group at DE&S, said: “We’re guide to help keep the UK armed Mirren McLeod, BFPO’s always looking to find the latest forces, their dependents and loved communications and secretariat innovations in technology ones in touch when personnel are manager (pictured with Sir and procurement to apply to deployed overseas. Simon), said: “This guide was equipment for our specialist users BFPO delivers personal and created based on our experiences – this industry day is our way of official mail to over 650 locations of the most common queries and exploring new possibilities and across the globe, including some questions we find our customers finding new SME suppliers to of the world’s most remote and have on using our services. It will bring on board.” austere places. be especially helpful to those new For more information and The compact 12-page guide to sending BFPO mail but will to register your interest, visit gathers together all the essential also act as a useful reminder to www.3cdse.co.uk. information for their customers our longer-standing customers.” in one place, including the free The BFPO Customer Guide mail services available to some is now available to view and locations. It also provides top tips download from the BFPO site. for making the most of BFPO
11 desider March 2019 Innovation
Cutting-edge UAV further improves firing range safety Pictured: An Aibotix X6 in flight (Picture submitted)
team at DE&S responsible data. The UAV allows the team to Major (ret) Charles Ross, said: for ensuring firing ranges Innovation can only provide accurate coverage of six to “Using a drone greatly increases are safe have acquired a eight hectares in approximately six the DOSG modelling capability by Acutting-edge unmanned aerial advance if a climate hours – a process that would have providing highly accurate data in a vehicle (UAV) to further eliminate to accept it exists – at taken several days beforehand. relatively short space of time. It is the risk of danger at the sites. every level The six-rotor UAV, with a lift possible, now, to provide accurate The DE&S Defence Ordnance capacity of two kilograms, enables coverage of six to eight hectares Safety Group (DOSG) provides Major (ret) Charles Ross, a number of different sensors to be in approximately six hours from safety advice for the safe DOSG UAV Duty Holder deployed. Flight planning software launch to finished product. It procurement of ordnance is used to ensure the target area is would have taken several days in munitions and explosives. It also covered with a sufficient density of the past. advises on the safe use of weapon photographs. Once the flight plan “The system is now effective systems in training on the Defence is uploaded, the UAV becomes and valuable, but the complexity estate, both in the UK and abroad. wholly autonomous and will take of the processes faced by the team DOSG use a ballistic computer photographs at pre-determined to arrive at this place proved model to simulate the effects waypoints. daunting and at times the goal of firing weapons. Statistical This data is processed to seemed almost unachievable. probabilities are produced which produce a Digital Elevation Model Innovation can only advance if a are used to determine the weapon (DEM) of the 3D surface. Using climate to accept it exists – at every danger area that must be applied a high resolution digital camera l e v e l .” on firing ranges to ensure the and software incorporating safety of users, observers and the stereoscopic techniques, an general public. accuracy of 12 millimetres can To ensure that the most accurate be achieved in both location and danger area can be determined, height. detailed representation of the The photographs are topography of the range is required downloaded from the UAV and – the relative height of the range the photogrammetry software floor and its extent. splices all the images together, To do this, an Aibotix X6 was creating a mosaic covering the area acquired by the team to capture under the flight plan route. The data in the form of photographs, software also quickly creates a 3D which are orthorectified (oriented representation of the surface by north and adjusted for mapping) draping the mosaic over the DEM. using the onboard differential GPS DOSG UAV Duty Holder,
12 desider March 2019 Innovation
Mastering the load reduces burden by half Pictured: A 99 Sqn C-17 from Brize Norton delivering essential equipment (Picture by Cpl Rob Bourne)
member of the Defence ultimately building a precision remarkable benefit was seen Support Chain Operations It has reduced the tailored tool for the process that almost immediately. It has reduced and Movement (DSCOM) was user friendly and had good the amount of time spent by Ateam at DE&S has developed a tool amount of time spent functionality on and load control staff that has revolutionised data entry by load control staff offline, even in areas recording the data by load control staff at RAF Brize recording the data by of limited internet. by almost 50 per Norton – reducing their workload almost 50 per cent However, to do cent. in this area by almost 50 per cent. this David first had “This means David Copsey (pictured right) David Copsey, to learn the Excel teams have more became aware, after close analysis Defence Support Chain code from scratch, time to spend on and discussion with the Senior Air Operations and Movement which resulted in their primary role Movements Officer at the air base, him spending many as opposed to that there was much duplication evenings burning recording data. It of effort when it came to recording the candles at both also supplies quick data around the movements of ends. access to accurate loads on British military transport The new tool data for reporting aircraft. enabled the five separate manual to the Front Line Commands and With thousands of loads processes to be combined. DE&S senior management.” – which may include troops, Information is generated directly Following the success at RAF weapons, vehicles, trenching tools, from load and movement data Brize Norton, a request has been toilet rolls and tents – transported entered just once. On screen note- made by RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus on a daily basis, recording their box areas can also show a level to expedite a change to the tool. deployment is a mammoth task. of detail not previously possible This went live on January 1. Full David identified five separate and menus mean far less risk of capability is due by March 31, areas that stood out, from double entry errors. This is supported 2019. typing of loading forms for by tools, which mean reference flight folders to multiple entry data and reports can be pulled notifications for departure and instantaneously rather than having arrivals. Some innovation was to tediously read everything needed. through and type it out. He took up the challenge David said: “Testing the tool to integrate and computerise went live at RAF Brize Norton the system by employing an on November 1 last year and enhanced Excel spreadsheet and
13 desider March 2019 Innovation
Future combat air system technology initiative Pictured: CGI of the UK's concept model for a next generation fighter jet (Picture courtesy of BAE Systems)
As part of an innovative joint industry and government team led by the RAF Rapid Capabilities Office (RCO), DE&S are providing key commercial, airworthiness, programme and wider procurement specialists to underpin the delivery of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) Technology Initiative (TI). Read more about their exciting role below
CAS TI was launched comprises three core elements: management techniques – both to following the Strategic Importantly, FCAS • National Projects. The support R&D delivery and future Defence and Security majority of this work is now acquisition”, Hugh Woodward, FReview 2015. It represents a TI seeks to optimise delivered through the novel and DE&S Combat Air Future Deputy significant government investment approaches across collaborative Team Tempest Head, said. of around £2bn over 10 years the UK’s government arrangement. This brings together With the parallel launch of into an ambitious Research and and industry the RAF RCO, scientific experts the Combat Air Acquisition Development (R&D) portfolio to enterprise. DE&S can from DSTL, DE&S and industry Programme (CAAP) to replace keep the UK at the cutting edge therefore use this partners (BAE Systems, Leonardo, the capabilities currently offered of Combat Air Systems. In doing MBDA and Rolls-Royce) to deliver by Typhoon, a new and growing opportunity to test so, it maintains political choice a range of co-funded flagship Strategic Programmes delivery by sustaining the UK’s ability to new management demonstrations showcasing UK team is being established within have a leading role in the next techniques – to capabilities. Outside of Team the Combat Air Operating generation of capabilities for the support R&D delivery Tempest, there are wider niche UK Centre. This will provide coherent 2040+ environment. and future acquisition projects. leadership for DE&S support to Reflecting the highly uncertain • Project PYRAMID. achieving the aims of CAAP, FCAS nature of R&D, FCAS TI is an Hugh Woodward, DE&S Development and validation of TI and the wider Combat Air agile and value driven initiative. Combat Air Future Deputy a comprehensive open Mission Strategy. At its heart is an ethos of not Head System architecture, using defined being afraid to fail fast, adjust interfaces, to enable more capable Find out more about the direction or stop activities before and flexible air systems whilst Combat Air Strategy completion when better outcomes reducing integration costs. can be achieved elsewhere. All • International Projects. current and candidate activities Cooperative work with partners, are reviewed on a 3-monthly cycle, including the planned next phase with recommendations made to of work with France. the Senior Responsible Owner. “Importantly, FCAS TI seeks Last year, FCAS TI was reshaped to optimise approaches across the through this process during the UK’s government and industry close development of the Combat enterprise. DE&S can therefore Air Strategy with UK industry, and use this opportunity to test new
14 desider March 2019 News
Cambridge company fuelling the way for P-8A Poseidon programme Pictured: Minister for Defence Procurement Stuart Andrew at Marshall Aerospace and Defence in Cambridge (Picture by Jack Eckersley)
he first fuel tanks durations over water in maritime Chief of Materiel (Air) for supporting the UK’s This would not patrol roles, in particular anti- DE&S, Air Marshal Julian Young, new fleet of submarine submarine, anti-shipping and said: “The work carried out under Thunting aircraft have rolled have been achieved search and rescue. the P-8A programme demonstrates off the production line in without the hard work, The new fuel tanks will enable how we work collaboratively with Cambridgeshire. professionalism and the first of nine P-8A aircrafts to industry to deliver vital capability The announcement was dedication of the be delivered to RAF Lossiemouth to our armed forces – a proven made by Defence Minister delivery team based in Scotland in Spring 2020. approach that is leading the way Stuart Andrew when he visited at Abbey Wood Michelle Sanders, team internationally. Marshall Aerospace and Defence leader of the P-8A project “This battle-proven aircraft, in Cambridge to showcase the Michelle Sanders, P-8A team at DE&S, said: “This is a already in service with our allies first fuel tanks that will support project team leader significant milestone for the P-8A across the globe, will be crucial in the UK’s new fleet of RAF P-8A programme, with production the protection of our continuous- Poseidon aircraft. of the first UK P-8A aircraft at-sea deterrent as well as our new The Minister said: “Our new on-track for delivery in October aircraft carriers, helping to tackle submarine-hunters will be a potent 2019. This would not have been the threats we face in the skies and deterrent to our adversaries and achieved without the hard work, at sea.” a dependable asset for the UK professionalism and dedication of The innovative sub-hunting and our allies, and the innovative the delivery team based at Abbey fleet, designed for future growth defence equipment built by Wood.” and adaptability, will reinvigorate Marshall will help us combat a The fuel tanks have been the UK’s specialist airborne range of intensifying threats.” manufactured by Marshall for over maritime patrol capability through The major milestone comes nine years and are used globally, advanced, state-of-the-art anti- after the first cohort of RAF supporting the United States Navy ship missiles, sonobouys and aircrew commenced their training and Royal Australian Air Force. torpedoes. The aircraft will also for the programme earlier this The P-8A team are also contribute to the protection of year, marking the start of a vital managing the delivery of the the UK’s nuclear deterrent and enhancement of the UK’s military strategic facility that will house the UK’s new aircraft carriers, capabilities in the maritime the aircraft at RAF Lossiemouth. seeking to locate and track hostile environment. This, in future, will bring further submarines and enhance the The P-8A Poseidon is a new job roles and personnel into RAF UK’s maritime search and rescue aircraft for the RAF and is Lossiemouth when the fleet is fully capability. designed to operate for long operational.
15 Picture: Jack Eckersley desider March 2019 DE&S People
On embracing change and the importance of innovation
Alastair Goodson is deputy head in the DE&S Technology Office, responsible for defining a dynamic portfolio that informs capability development
What does your role involve? The Post-It was born when one 3M job in MOD, was at Portland, As a deputy head in the researcher spotted an alternative procuring a sonar system. I’ve had DE&S Technology Office, I am use for a colleague’s failed glue. such a variety of interesting jobs responsible for defining a portfolio It’s also important to consider the since that I’ve never felt the need of pre-concept demonstrators, wider team, including industry to leave. studies and other evidence- and regulators. Changes need to be workable for all key stakeholders, What do you most enjoy about gathering to inform capability your job? development. Until recently, I led which is why the Technology on DE&S’ Innovation Strategy Office runs events like the Army The huge variety, and the and our corporate interface with Warfighting Experiment, helping people. In a week, I could be MOD’s science and technology MOD and industry to explore discussing projects ranging from and innovation organisations. ideas together. record-breaking unmanned air platforms, through 3D-printing What about your role is How are you helping embed and open architectures, to exciting, rewarding or change in your area? innovative oil-condition interesting? As a team leader, I am helping monitoring technologies, whilst Being a team leader in the to embed DE&S transformation supporting Acquisition Reform Technology Office is always into a team handling a fluid sub- and helping embed the Defence fascinating. Almost by definition, portfolio of small pre-concept Innovation Initiative. we are doing things that are projects across all Command The people in the Tech Office novel, at least in the MOD. customers. Strategically, I are special! They have knowledge, We work with customers and am providing input into the experience and, crucially, a stakeholders to understand what Acquisition Review to enable willingness to take managed risk evidence is needed to de-risk DE&S to consciously adjust its and learn. They also make work future acquisition, and how to risk appetite, where appropriate, fun. get it. Increasingly, this is less to help deliver MOD’s aspirations for agility and innovation. It is What do you enjoy doing in about developing technology your spare time? within Defence and more notoriously difficult for large about overcoming the barriers organisations to be innovative, I have just finished a part-time to its exploitation, such as but there are great examples Postgraduate Diploma in Systems understanding the regulatory across DE&S – like our Additive Engineering, so spare time has and logistic challenges of a Manufacture laboratory – and I been a bit limited recently. I enjoy high altitude pseudo-satellite am trying to help those stories skiing, and would like to watch capability. Every project presents get told, connect people to share more rugby, but most of my time new intellectual challenges and experience and stimulate ideas, is spent trying to do my share of ambitious expectations but and lead by example through our parenting two busy daughters. projects. provides an exciting opportunity What might surprise people to give our forces an advantage. Why did you choose to pursue about you? How important to you is a career in DE&S? Despite leading on innovation teamwork? Growing up, I had always been and being an early-adopter of Teamwork is essential. interested in military equipment: technology myself (as the pile of Obviously, there’s only so much building model kits, reading about discarded gadgets at home attests), anyone can do themselves. it and watching my local air-show. I often find myself wearing de Particularly when trying to I also fondly remember a boat-trip Bono’s (physician Edward de bring about change, it’s vital to around Portland Harbour on a Bono was the father of lateral understand different viewpoints, family holiday. When applying thinking) cautious, black “thinking to be conscious of biases and for engineering degrees, I was hat” when workshopping ideas. group-think, and to welcome encouraged to take a year out, It’s useful to ensure threats and challenge. Diversity is particularly and won a place on the MOD’s downsides are uncovered, too, important to innovation, too. It’s highly-regarded DESG Student when pursuing opportunities. Just often when different perspectives and Graduate Engineer scheme. remember to take it off afterwards! meet that the “spark” needed to Coincidentally, my mentor, and turn ideas into reality happens. in due course my first “proper”
17 desider March 2019 News
DE&S plays key role in £500 million global F-35 support assignment Pictured: Britain’s new cutting-edge F-35B aircraft arriving at RAF Marham in June last year (Picture courtesy of Lockheed Martin)
he UK’s role as a leading (SSSL) joint venture and around with industry, bringing together partner on the global F-35 In winning this 20 F-35 component original a highly skilled and experienced programme has received equipment manufacturers to workforce to offer an innovative Tanother huge boost, after the F-35 work, the UK has produce an integrated bid on and best value support solution for avionic and aircraft component demonstrated how the behalf of the UK. the benefit of F-35 partners. repair hub in North Wales MOD can collaborate Deputy Team Leader for the “The UK also benefits from a was awarded a second major effectively with Lightning Delivery Team in long-term commitment to the assignment of work by the US industry, bringing DE&S, Andy Hewitt, said: “This F-35 programme and its unique Department of Defence, worth together a highly announcement is great news defence relationship with the £500 million. skilled and experienced for the UK and proof of the US. Together with our partners In 2016 the F-35 Joint important role we play in the from DECA, BAE Systems and Programme Office selected the UK workforce to offer an global F-35 programme. It is also Northrop Grumman, SSSL will be as a global repair hub for F-35, a innovative and best a good example of teamwork and able to offer the F-35 programme decision that will generate millions value support solution collaboration between DE&S, engineering excellence, world-class of pounds and support hundreds for the benefit of F-35 DECA and industry. innovation and agility.” of high tech jobs in North Wales, partners “We knew that the level of This further F-35 assignment where components for the global competition would be high, reaffirms DECA’s role in providing fleet F-35 aircraft will be serviced Sir Simon Bollom, DE&S CEO particularly from the programme’s services and support to the world’s and maintained. European partners, so we really most advanced fighter aircraft for This second assignment will had to demonstrate why we decades to come. SSSL support see significantly more UK support are best placed to carry out the work and services for F-35 are work to the cutting-edge jets, component MRO&U services that scheduled to commence from including Maintenance, Repair, we bid for. Everyone who has been 2020. Overhaul and Upgrade (MRO&U) involved with this assignment can services for an even wider range of be proud of their part in helping avionic, electronic and electrical to secure some £500 million of systems on hundreds of F-35s revenue for the UK.” based globally. The new assignment will DE&S led the coordination support hundreds of additional of the UK bid for the F-35 F-35 jobs in the UK, many of them Component MRO&U Tier 2 at DECA, MOD Sealand, where Campaign. This involved leading the majority of the work will be a team from the Defence and carried out. Electronics Components Agency Sir Simon Bollom, DE&S CEO, (DECA), BAE Systems and said: “In winning this work, the Northrop Grumman through UK has demonstrated how the the Sealand Support Services Ltd MOD can collaborate effectively
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Pictured from top: The new High G test facility at RAF Cranwell, the facility in action and Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier in the gondola (Pictures by Paul Saxby)
20 desider March 2019 News Cutting-edge fast jet trainer opened at RAF Cranwell
"Seeing the Centrifuge now in full operation is a real testament to great collaborative working between
DE&S, RAF and industry" Russ Cole, Flight Simulators And Synthetic Trainers (FsAST ) Portfolio Team Leader
state-of-the-art High-G training and test Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier said: “By facility has been opened at RAF Cranwell by exposing our Typhoon, Lightning and Hawk pilots the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal to High-G forces in a tailor-made and completely ASir Stephen Hillier. controlled environment, we are significantly The £44 million project, delivered by DE&S, is enhancing safety in the air and making a major used by fast jet pilots in the Royal Navy and Royal Air contribution to our operational effectiveness.” Force to replicate flight in aircraft such as the Hawk, The new facility at RAF Cranwell is used by fast Typhoon and new F-35 Lightning. jet pilots progressing through the UK Military Flying Pilots are able to experience up to 9G – nine times Training System and into their flying careers. Fast the normal gravitational pull of the Earth – and jet pilots will refresh their training at least every five learn how to use their specialist in-cockpit flying years to keep them as safe as possible and current in equipment to help them cope with these stresses. The the techniques used to handle High-G forces in flight. centrifuge can accelerate up to 9G in one second and The RAF Centre of Aviation Medicine is using rotate up to 34 times a minute. the facility to train aircrew to recognise the effects The new facility revolutionises High-G training, of G-force, develop awareness of it and learn the as pilots are not simply strapped into the device and physical techniques needed to counter the effects exposed to G-force but are able to ‘fly’ as they would on their bodies during combat missions. Up to 300 in a flight simulator as the pilot manoeuvres the aircrew will receive training on the centrifuge each aircraft and applies the G-force. year. Director Air Support at DE&S, Richard Murray, The 39-tonne centrifuge built by Thales UK has said: “This new and exciting facility is replacing the seen the company team up with world leading High-G trainer until recently used by Defence; that centrifuge specialists AMST from Austria to design dates from the 1950s and no longer matches the and build the equipment. Thales has been training performance of the modern fast jet aircraft such as RAF aircrew since the 1930s, providing over 300 the F-35 and Typhoon. complex simulators for 60 different platforms. “The Centrifuge is capable of accelerating up to Russ Cole, FsAST Portfolio Team Leader, said: 9G in just one second, but rather than just sitting “I am really proud of the FsAST team, led by Steve in it, the replica, flyable cockpit delivers realistic Hunt, that delivered this new and exciting High-G and immersive training, helping to simulate real- facility – on time, on budget and fully meeting all life missions while teaching pilots to deal with requirements. Seeing the Centrifuge now in full acceleration and High G-forces.” operation is a real testament to great collaborative Pilots using the facility benefit from a cockpit working between DE&S, RAF and Thales/AMST.” which closely represents that of their normal aircraft, enabling them to conduct a plethora of training scenarios, from air-to-air combat to dealing with in- bound missile threats. The device will also be used to trial and test new equipment to be used on fast jet aircraft and by the pilots. This will also ensure that the testing is done in a benign environment before being trialed in live flight.
21 desider March 2019 Innovation
High Altitude Pseudo Satellite – soon to be undergoing testing by DE&S in Australian skies Pictured: An engineering flight trial of Zephyr at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona (Picture courtesy of Airbus)
n ultra-lightweight runs exclusively on solar power, for 25 days, 23 hours and 57 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle We have worked with flying above the weather and minutes – easily surpassing the old (UAV) that operates at the conventional air traffic – filling a record of 14 days, 22 minutes and Airbus to develop a Aedge of space will take to the skies gap complementary to satellites, eight seconds, set by a previous for crucial flight testing overseen unique trial schedule other UAVs and manned aircraft version of the UAV. by the DE&S Tech Office. to take maximum to provide persistent local satellite- It will most likely exceed this The Operational Capability advantage of good like services. during the testing in Australia, Demonstration (OCD) flight weather and look The UAV pioneered the use where, after its 10-12 hour journey testing of the Airbus High Altitude forward to exploring of carbon fibre wing ribs, silicon to 60,000ft, it is hoped Zephyr will Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) Zephyr the potential this solar arrays, electric motors and remain airborne for a minimum 8 is expected to begin this month rechargeable batteries to remain of 30 days. at a new dedicated flight base in exciting platform can continuously aloft, even in Technicians from Airbus Wyndham, Western Australia. offer darkness. Defence and Space will travel Working with Joint Forces Rear Admiral James Morley, with DE&S UAV and Director Chris Delaney, Zephyr lead Command, the Tech Office is DE&S Tech Office Director Capability JFC, said: Equipment and Safety Technical delivering the OCD to improve “Designed and built in the UK, Office teams to Australia for MOD’s understanding of how the Zephyr is one of the cutting-edge the trials, which are weather innovative technologies employed technologies that we are exploring dependent. in a HAPS capability might be to maintain our competitive Chris Delaney, Zephyr lead utilised to inform Defence’s advantage in communications and within the DE&S Tech Office, said: decisions around how best to surveillance. “There have been considerable provide next-generation battlefield “Joint Forces Command has efforts from all involved to be in intelligence to the UK armed invested in this platform to better a position where we can start this forces. understand the opportunities testing. The OCD contract with Airbus, that it offers for all of our forces; “This included negotiating signed in 2016, included the it demonstrates how Defence is approvals with the Australian purchase by JFC of three Zephyr working hard with our industrial air regulators and obtaining the platforms. partners to encourage and support required military permit to fly. Zephyr operates in the innovative approaches to meet our “We have worked with Airbus stratosphere at an average altitude requirements now and into the to develop a unique trial schedule of 60,000 feet and could support f utu re .” to take maximum advantage of a wide range of applications, Last summer, in the USA, good weather and look forward including land and maritime Zephyr surpassed the world to exploring the potential this surveillance, as well as a variety flight endurance record without exciting platform can offer.” of communication tasks. It refuelling when it stayed airborne
22 desider March 2019 Feature
Geoff set to spearhead innovative delivery Pictured: Geoff Spour (Picture by Jack Eckersley)
DE&S is at the heart of innovation. Geoff Spour, newly appointed Spearhead Portfolio team leader, talks to Desider about turning innovation into delivery agility or evidence that Defence has (MDP) has reinforced this position with our customers to articulate wholeheartedly adopted the by endorsing the £540 million their needs and priorities better, Ultimately, for ethos of innovation, look no Spearhead Initiative and the £500 whilst being more adaptive and Ffurther than this issue of Desider. million Defence Transformation innovation to be open to managed risk and scaled There is a challenge to DE&S on Fund, together with a top-down successful, ideas must procurement. the horizon to take a radically review of acquisition processes in be exploited The CEO has endorsed different approach to its daily the Acquisition Review. Tech Office plans to create an business. The objective of the Spearheads Defence Innovation Vision exploratory multi-disciplinary I’ve just redeployed from the is to solve real-world military team to trailblaze a more rapid Submarine Delivery Agency into problems by combining emerging and adaptive procurement the Directorate of Engineering and technological solutions with process for novel technology, Safety team to be at the forefront of faster acquisition practices. The outside of traditional capability the Defence Spearhead Initiative. Spearheads comprise a seven-year acquisition. The first projects It is an exciting time to be part of portfolio of three programmes, that I will be leading will be the innovation landscape, with a encompassing underwater under the Spearhead and MDP proliferation of ringfenced funds battlespace superiority; Transformation Fund initiatives. and initiatives designed to drive intelligence, surveillance and With just three years to deliver, new projects forward. reconnaissance; artificial the Defence Transformation Innovation was first recognised intelligence in command and Fund will drive a rapid pace as a Defence priority in the 2015 control systems. of technology delivery that is Strategic Defence and Security In response, Commands are currently outside of formal Review, launching both the adjusting their attitude to risk to acquisition engagement. Our Defence Innovation Initiative and optimise the delivered capability response will be critical to Defence Innovation Fund (DIF). in terms of relevance and delivery ensuring that we remain an At £800 million over 10 years, the speed. organisation that our customers DIF was a significant investment As a result, our customers want to work with. and is coordinated by the Defence increasingly want us to be more With so much emphasis on Innovation Unit in Main Building. responsive and see existing innovation across Defence, our Fast forward three years and procurement processes as a ability as an organisation to lead, we find ourselves at another barrier to innovation. I believe not lag behind, will define the significant turning point in that this is false – our organisation value that we add to Defence as a Defence’s desire to more readily frequently delivers urgent whole. I’m excited to be here in the and rapidly adopt innovation capability requirements and rapid team from the outset. into capability delivery. The operational support when the Modernising Defence Programme need arises. We need to work
23 desider March 2019 Feature
A simple solution to accelerating humanitarian relief Pictured clockwise from top left: Charity food delivery during Mozambique floods, flooding in Bangladesh, screen shot of DROP logger, Lt Cdr Clive Langmead, DROP logger in use, DROP logger Trial Team Dhaka and Clive flies first DROP logger trial (Pictures submitted by Lt Cdr Clive Langmead)
Lt Cdr Clive Langmead watched on in horror at the images of hurricanes destroying Caribbean islands. Here he tells Desider how one of his darkest moments led to one of his brightest ideas could see the news pictures in need, report damaged bridges It was not plain sailing by any were showing a terrible story You touched the and re-supply washed out clinics, means. Despite the innovation before anything terrible had wherever we flew. fund time limit, getting the project Ihappened. screen as you flew You touched the screen as you accelerated proved problematic Two dark swirls of cloud were over and it recorded flew over and it recorded what and three months were lost. With marching west across the Atlantic what you saw, and you saw, and where. Simple but no easily identifiable method of towards the island homes of nearly where. Simple but hugely effective. No more hurried buying approved commercially a million people. Hurricanes Irma hugely effective notes on paper or greasy knee pads available off-the-shelf purchases, I and Maria were hurling themselves (whilst trying to fly low, safely) or even bought some things myself. into the Caribbean in the autumn rough crosses on half folded maps. But the story ends well. We of 2017. It was a forecast I had It gave a solid GPS fix and started late, got it flown and often seen before, usually off the ‘bridge down’ or ‘food dump’, greatly improved and then gave it coast of Africa. ‘rescue needed’ with the location a rigorous field test in Bangladesh As a volunteer pilot for a charity nailed to within 20 metres even over severe monsoon floods and I had delivered food after storm flying fast. Notes if you wanted, in the midst of riots. All who flew floods in Mozambique. I knew and a photo. It could be used by with DROP logger liked it a lot. what the pictures meant. A tweet a passenger. A life saver. Surely Now it is hardened and from a shipmate noted HMS it was something UK Forces on waterproofed and works well in Ocean, my last ship, and others humanitarian assistance and a military environment. And the were on their way to help pick disaster relief work could use? I large screen projection of the up the pieces. Not much more brought it into work and was told map (online and unclassified so anyone could do against this force to apply for a MOD Innovation anyone can use it, host nation, of nature. Fund grant. Red Cross, Médecins Sans In my cosy MOD Farnborough So began the development of Frontières, other military units) office I could only watch and pray. the Disaster Relief Operations Plot means that command and control I did both. (DROP) logger. I had six months. is immediate, saving lives and I also remembered some A small GIS map contractor, quickly bringing aid. innovative work we had done for Helyx in Tewkesbury, were happy Will anyone adopt it? We wait Wings Like Eagles, the helicopter to work on it, at risk, before a and see. charity. We had developed an app contract came to develop it further on my iPad to re-locate people with me. I needed their goodwill.
24 Project Manager Innovator Commercial Finance Graduate FIND YOUR FUTURE Business Manager Communications Project Controller Human Resources Security des.mod.uk A new home for careers at DE&S desider March 2019 Feature Innovation across DE&S Innovation has long been high on the agenda at DE&S. Here Desider editor Tom Morris highlights just a few of the stories that have appeared since he took on the role in 2015
Medical marvel In September 2016 Desider reported that Lieutenant Colonel (ret) Richard Garbutt orchestrated the modification of six Gazelle helicopters in just seven Tempus Pro months so they could provide medical treatment In April 2017 we reported on board. This prevented the need for a proposed that DE&S had signed a civilian-operated helicopter service for the British contract to deliver innovative Army Training Unit Suffield in Canada and, as well as lifesaving medical monitors undoubtedly saving lives, saved in the region of £15 to the UK armed forces. The million. Richard was awarded an MBE in 2018. Tempus Pro monitors help facilitate emergency treatment for Royal Navy, Army and RAF personnel injured or taken ill on active duty. The lightweight, robust and portable monitor can be used on land, at sea and in the air and transmits vital medical data in real time back to treatment teams, giving them a better understanding of a patient’s condition ahead of time. Hundreds have been delivered to the armed forces.
Autonomous minesweeping Typhoon simulators In June 2018 the DE&S The number of flight Mine Countermeasures and simulators at RAF Hydrographic Capability Lossiemouth was doubled team handed over to the to allow crucial training Royal Navy an autonomous to take place, Desider minesweeper system that reported in May last can clear sea lanes of mines year. The two additional without putting the lives of Emulated Deployable sailors at risk. The system Cockpit Trainers allowed consists of a 36ft unmanned up to four Typhoon surface vessel which tows pilots to fly synchronised three coil-auxiliary boats combat missions at the equipped with innovative same time, a formation electrodes and sensors for essential on operations. detonating digital sea mines The delivery of this key designed to detect and capability by the DE&S target warships as they pass Fast Air Support Team overhead. boosted combat training and cut costs.
26 desider March 2019 Feature
Ajax April last year saw news that DE&S signed a deal to equip the British Army’s Ajax family of fighting vehicles with an innovative threat detection system. The vehicle- mounted Ajax Shot Detection System is designed to accurately sense and report the direction of incoming fire and gives the crew the critical situational awareness to react to the threat. Director Land Equipment Colin McClean said: “Integrating this new sensor on to our family of Ajax vehicles is another innovation we are investing in to ensure that British soldiers have the very best equipment.”
AWE The end of 2018 saw the biggest military robot exercise in British history Apprentice impresses take place. The Army Warfighting In October 2016, Drew Killingley, Experiment gives the British Army an then a DE&S apprentice, was invaluable opportunity to see how new highlighted by his team for fixing technologies could potentially support operational critical laptops that had future operations. Managed by the DE&S been destined for the scrapheap. Technology Office, last year’s AWE Army HQ had a high demand for saw engagement from more than 50 the laptops as they were used to companies, from large primes to one man diagnose Foxhound vehicles, but ‘garden shed’ innovators, all wanting to their operating systems had become showcase their products. The Tech Office’s corrupted. Drew’s work saw 11 of the James Morris said: “The aim of AWE is to 13 devices returned to relevant units create the conditions where innovation and saved in the region of £50,000. can thrive.”
Unmanned Warrior In November 2016 Desider reported on the success of Unmanned Warrior – then the largest event of its kind in Europe. Organised by the DE&S Tech Office alongside the Royal Navy, the six-week exercise in Scotland allowed industry to demonstrate technology around hydrographic and oceanographic data gathering, anti-submarine warfare, mine countermeasures, surveillance and control of autonomous systems. At the time Fleet Robotics Officer, Commander Peter Pipkin, said: “The importance of this event, both in terms of collaborative working and promoting innovation, should not be underestimated.” Bullseye In November 2017 we reported that ingenious DE&S apprentices from BriteCloud brilliance Devonport had designed May 2018 saw Desider a dartboard for use report on the delivery by recovering service of BriteCloud to the personnel and veterans. RAF. These cutting- Chris Nowell-Smith and edge miniature decoys, Lawrence Parker were developed by the DE&S asked by Help for Heroes Technology Office and to design and build a industry, help protect height-adjustable dartboard combat jets from modern that could be used by both radar-guided missiles standing participants and by using powerful radar wheelchair users. Former emissions to disrupt soldier Snowy Dyson said: missile systems, drawing “I helped the apprentices them away from their draw up the criteria and intended target. Amazing they did a fantastic job.” technology all contained in something that is similar in size and appearance to a beverage can.
27 desider March 2019 DE&S People
60 second spotlight "My grandfather accidentally swam in a crocodile- infested river and he unknowingly dined with a local Tibetan King"
Your advice to anyone?
Emily First be truthful to yourself, then be truthful to others. Saunders Then hopefully one day you’ll Job: understand the meaning of truth.
Technical Specialist working for What do you do when you’re the Tech Office based at MOD away from work? Abbey Wood Thankfully, constants in my life Your route into DE&S? are my faith and my parents. Everything else is juggled around My Maths BSc set me up for an those, including keeping fit, unexpected career in DE&S. I seeing friends and travelling far loved prime number theory and away somewhere exciting! selected courses in everything cryptography-based, specifically What are you most proud of? searching for jobs with that buzz word that these days is Some readers will undoubtedly so well-known. Fortunately, laugh at my answers but, the DESG Graduate Scheme honestly, I’m most proud of offered opportunities in crypto believing in Jesus Christ. There is and has allowed me to explore nothing else that impresses me many other interesting areas, more than someone who puts even sponsoring my Aerospace their mind to God, figures Him out Systems MSc. Now I’m working and then lives it. I’m proud when I with a team of super-intelligent do that and I’m devastated when people exploring exciting future I don’t. technologies. If you were sent to a desert island, what three things Your claim to fame? gather them together somewhere would you take with you? like St Lucia and simply live life. During my maths days I studied the works of Glyn Harman, The thought of a desert island reminds me of the island in What would surprise people a professor at my university. about you? Professor Harman published the Life of Pi. Naturally, I’d take Noah’s ark complete with the some great findings in number My thrill to travel the world zoo, Samson’s great strength and theory and has attained the well- comes from my grandfather, Jim an unlimited supply of bread and respected Erdös number 2. The Saunders. He filmed wildlife for wine. Erdös number was created to the BBC with the likes of Gerald mark the connection/separation Durrell, David Shepherd and What irritates you the most? between a 20th century famous Johnny Morris (sometimes David Hungarian mathematician, Talking about simple things and Attenborough, too). As a child, he Paul Erdös, and his network of too many questions that are easy told me stories of his adventures collaborators. Collaborators with Do you or to answer. I often want to shake around the world, like when he those obtaining an Erdös number people into life and say: “come on accidentally swam in a crocodile- someone you are also bestowed with the guys, let’s talk about something infested river and he unknowingly honour. I once hoped to take an know deserve stimulating!” dined with a local Tibetan King! MSc under Professor Harman for their 60 seconds the opportunity of collaborating What is your favourite place in with him and obtaining Erdös in the spotlight? the world? number 3. Unfortunately for me, Email he took his retirement the year Anywhere beautiful with the wide [email protected] before I completed my BSc. ocean, mountains, bananas and Nevertheless, I’m proud to have rum. My friends and family are studied his works and the cherry scattered all around the world in on the cake is that he shares my UAE, Burkina Faso, Turkey, USA, Christian faith. Romania and Bolivia. I’d love to
28 desider March 2019 News
Further success for Devonport “high flyer” at annual apprentice award ceremony Pictured: Phoebe Loveridge receives the MOD Apprentice of the Year Award from Caroline Paige (Picture Beth Randall)
hoebe Loveridge rounded hopefuls and winners from year's winner Hayley Barden by off a stellar 12 months This is an amazing the prestigious Tom Nevard Chief Technician Robert Bates after being named MOD competition – an annual (winner of the 2017 Inaugural PApprentice of the Year 2018 at an achievement by engineering event staged since Award). award ceremony in the centre of Phoebe. To get one 1952 that sets various design Caroline Paige, the first trans- Bristol. award is fantastic, but and engineering challenges to gender serving military officer, She was recognised for, amongst to scoop all three is test apprentice’s imagination and rounded off the evening with a other achievements, her work as a remarkable ability. truly inspirational after dinner Science, Technology, Engineering This year’s event, staged at speech outlining her personal and Maths (STEM) ambassador, Lorna Stubbs, Engineering Shrivenham in August, saw journey and encouraging the her commitment to her Trainee Development individual participants design and attendees to take all opportunities apprenticeship and for achieving Manager at Devonport build an elastic band weapon and and make their one life the best. distinctions in her academic a team challenge to build a radio- Defence is the largest employer studies. controlled hovercraft. of apprentices in the UK, with It is the third award Phoebe, Competitors in the Sir 9,000 engineering apprenticeships an engineering surveyor with Henry Royce Award, which and a total of 20,000 across a range the Submarine Delivery Agency, runs alongside the Tom Nevard of disciplines. HMNB Devonport, has received competition, were asked to design Apprenticeships are a crucial recently alongside the national and build a camping axe. way of developing the skills Institute of Engineering and Jordan Gibbs (DM Gosport) required by employers and Technology (IET) title, and the and Lorn Trybis (MOD Abbey of providing people from all Bridgwater and Taunton College Wood) scooped individual backgrounds with the opportunity Apprentice of the Year. challenge winner awards while to obtain skills that will contribute The ceremony, held at the George Masters, Lauren Drake, to their achievement in the Bristol Harbour Hotel on February Frank Lippik-Murphy (all MOD workplace. 5, was attended by DE&S CEO Sir Abbey Wood), Matthew Harrison Simon Bollom along with other (DM Gosport) and Scott Murton senior members of staff. (DE&S Devonport) won the team Lorna Stubbs, Engineering prize. Trainee Development Manager The Sir Henry Royce Memorial at Devonport, said: “This is an Foundation Medal went to Charles amazing achievement by Phoebe. Hadley (MOD Abbey Wood), To get one award is fantastic, but while the HRH Prince of Wales's to scoop all three is remarkable.” Award for Services to Defence Phoebe was joined by other Engineering was presented to this
29 desider March 2019 DE&S People
Distinguished service, wellbeing and £1,000 for a worthy cause
DE&S Time to Change Champions produced a number of resources to help colleagues to improve their understanding of mental health. A DE&S employee whose work Acceptance Team in 2013. The resources, including powerful personal stories, was instrumental in the successful His work on the Power and a quiz, empowering presentations and a poem, were delivery of the first of the Royal Propulsion system acceptance was produced to coincide with Time to Talk Day – a national Navy’s 65,00 tonne aircraft carriers key in the successful delivery of QNLZ initiative held on February 7 part of the Time to Change – HMS Queen Elizabeth (QNLZ) in and his subsequent work on the HMS campaign, which aims to end discrimination around 2017 – has retired. Prince of Wales Power and Propulsion mental health. James Ember, who was Power and systems has helped set the conditions A market stall in MOD Abbey Wood, held in Propulsion team leader for the QNLZ for the delivery of this platform to the partnership with mental health first aiders and the Delivery Acceptance Team based in Royal Navy. Charity for Civil Servants, was also run alongside the Rosyth, joined DE&S in 2007 after a To mark his retirement, James was resources that were available both online and on Skype long career in the Royal Navy. presented with a framed picture of to DE&S employees across the business. He initially joined the organisation QNLZ and letter of thanks from Senior Time to Change Champion Ian Slade said: “Feedback as part of the Ship Upkeep group, Responsible Officer Admiral Blount was overwhelmingly positive and a number of people overseeing refits on a wide range and Director Ships Acquisition Henry subsequently registered to become a champion of vessels before transferring to Parker by Captain Ian Groom, Client themselves, having been inspired by the event. Our aim the Queen Elizabeth Class Delivery Director for the Aircraft Carrier Alliance. is to ensure no one is made to feel isolated for having a mental health problem.”
The Weapons Operating region either by helicopter or Centre (WOC) tuck shop at in critical care cars. They went MOD Abbey Wood has again on 1,887 missions in 2018 and raised £1,000 for the Great need donations of more than Western Air Ambulance £3 million each year to remain Charity (GWAAC). operational, as they receive no Organiser Sheila Smart government funding. and Richard Smart (Director Sheila said: “A huge thank Weapons) presented a you to all those who supported cheque to GWAAC Corporate the tuck shop throughout the Partnerships Coordinator Holly year.” Adlem. On average, GWAAC attend five incidents each day – prioritising the most critical patients. Their priority is to get to patients fast. The team treat people at the scene, on the road and in the air, and give them the best chance of a positive outcome. The brilliant team of pilots, expert paramedics and doctors attend incidents across the
30 desider March 2019 DE&S People
the MOD Lottery Inaugural event November MOTTO winners celebrates parents £20,000 Paul Hosking, Helston DE&S celebrated new parents by leave and the enrichment this bought £2,500 Kevin Woods, JFC holding the first corporate Keeping to him and his family. £1,000 Christopher Cormack, Lincoln in Touch Event open to staff away Bluebell Charity offered insights into on, and preparing for, parental leave. perinatal wellbeing and signposted £500 Karen Tait, London The event had been organised to support that is available. DE&S £250 Kim Wright, ABW recognise the complex challenges Corporate Function Managers and £100 Jayne Vernon, Liverpool new parents face returning to work, Human Resources representatives Mark Goodman, ABW including the importance of talking were on hand to speak to attendees about and maintaining wellbeing once about function and policy changes. Heather Hammond, ABW returned. And mental health first aiders and Time Trevor Williams, ABW Lieutenant General Paul Jaques To Change Champions were available Troy Day, ABW opened the event, updating colleagues to provide support. on changes that were happening within Recent returnees shared their Sharon Richards, Nottingham the organisation. experiences, helping colleagues with Lee Stevenson, Holywood Morag Stuart, DE&S 2* Gender their plan for returning to work. Georgia McCarthy, ABW Champion, spoke about the Organisers Carla Francis and Natalie importance of wellbeing within the James said: “The sense of affinity in the Rowan Gough, ABW workplace and encouraged working room during the event was remarkable, Matt Treasure, ABW parents to be loud and proud. Senior as was the interaction of DE&S Graham Smith, Washington Civil Servant Chris Carpenter spoke colleagues supporting one another.” about his experience of shared parental Ian Bradley, Fife Mark Perrett, Bristol Brian Thompson, Wimbourne Christopher Cormack, Lincoln James McIntosh, Beith Jonathan Ackland, ABW Elizabeth Shillitoe, ABW Nicholas Jones, Salisbury Paula Norris, Bordon
Last month's missing word was: Aircraft
S D P J P K B L H T W V C U E P N I N N E F G X A C M V P I N Z V O L N Word Search N O I T A M R O F S N A R T I N A G Change Inspiration Revolution N V I C N R R A H V O L S T T R N E Creativity Inventive Solution U E W T V E S E E T R U A E A E I N Fresh Milestone Success G L W J A U D N V Y W R I H N D G I Global Modern Transformation Growth Newness Unprecedented O T R N C I T E H O I O H E I O I O Imaginative Novelty Variation D Y N C E I R P C P L D R T G M R U Ingenious Original Zephyr M P E P V S E A S E J U T G A Q O S Find which word or name is missing from this I S Q E N Z S N V S R B T E M G T N wordsearch. S C R E A T I V I T Y P Z I I I N L Note - they may appear vertically, S E N O T S E L I M X P N X O O V R horizontally, diagonally, forward or backward. E G N A H C F R E S H P D U O N F X
Q V F Q J C J Q J N S O L U T I O N
31 desider March 2019 Recruitment Case Masters degree in Defence Acquisition Management at Cranfield University funded by DE&S. Being on the Means of Identifying Internal Talent scheme for eight years also provided opportunities to work in other locations – including a secondment for four years to London Head Office.
What do you most enjoy about your job? Study The Technology Office is a diverse and fast-paced team, full of energy and innovative ideas. We take Suzy Harris, Project Manager within pre-concept ideas and the 'big questions' and create the Technology Office, gives her ways of examining them which are often unique within DE&S. As a PM in the Tech Office you hold insight into some of the benefits of responsibility for the whole of a project, from start to finish within a short space of time, which makes it a working for the organisation fascinating place to work.
What’s your ambition? I've seen first-hand the benefits of using experimentation in providing answers to some of the Name: big questions within Defence, especially with regards Suzy Harris to new and emerging technologies and innovative ways of working. My ambition is to promote the Job title: benefits of experimentation within the pre-concept Project Manager (PM) – Technology Office space and hopefully see this route used more broadly.
How long have you worked for DE&S? What’s your greatest achievement (in your role) 12 years (including a four-year secondment to to date? London Head Office) The scale of AWE this year has surpassed everyone's expectations; at one point the Prime Minister Why did you choose to pursue a career in DE&S? was rumoured to have been interested in coming I've always been fascinated by the military, so I to Salisbury Plain! The team working on AWE thought it would be an interesting place to work. coped amazingly with the increased pressures and I wasn't wrong! Having exposure to complex and have done an amazing job delivering an excellent diverse military requirements and taking a job experiment on behalf of the Army. Leading this team which allows me to contribute directly to those is something I am exceptionally proud of. requirements is part and parcel of being a Project Manager within DE&S. Why would you recommend DE&S to others as a great place to work? What does your role entail? DE&S offers a huge amount of variation across a I am the Project Lead for the Army Warfighting career. I have been involved in managing a radar for Experiment (AWE), the biggest experiment in the the Navy, purchased dog equipment for an urgent Army calendar. This entails overseeing all DE&S operational requirement, asset sales in Head Office aspects of project delivery, managing resources and and through AWE, examining the potential of the use placing contracts for the facilities and provisions of robotics and autonomous systems. You can choose required, ranging from workshop space to data whatever sparks your interest. collection tablets and on-site 4G provisions. I am also responsible for ensuring the data collected reaches What are the social benefits of working for DE&S? appropriate stakeholders within DE&S, ultimately de- DE&S offers an excellent opportunity for anyone who risking and informing future military procurements. is interested in flexible working. I went part-time after having children and have been able to maintain What are the opportunities to develop and a challenging and demanding job through flexibility progress within your function? of my team and management attitude to alternative I was lucky enough to participate and complete a working patterns.
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WORK FOR DE&S For more info and job opportunities visit: www.des.mod.uk
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Here are six great reasons to work for DE&S
Bonuses & Pension Flexible Recognition Our Alpha pension is Working conservatively valued at 21% Annual bonus and one- of your salary. Most private Balancing work and life, off payments based on companies only offer 6-12% various working patterns performance for going above and beyond
Professional Holiday Facilities Development 25 days rising to 30 days after We provide a modern, 5 years safe and convenient work Choose a career path that’s environment right for you
For even more reasons see our 'Little Book of Big Benefits' at www.des.mod.uk
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Future Vacancies Operational Researcher - Modelling & Analysis DE&S Bristol £19,000 - £24,000pa Senior Administrator/Specialist Estimated timeline: 15/03/19 - 21/03/19 Post type Permanent Job Description: An exciting opportunity exists to join our modelling and analysis team, an essential part of our Integrated Logistics function. This is a key specialism that guides and interacts with a range of teams and domains across DE&S to deliver supply chain systems, modelling, data and metric analysis.
Technical Through Life Support (TTLS) DE&S Bristol £30,000 - £42,000pa Professional II Estimated timeline: 15/03/19 - 07/04/19 Post type Permanent Job Description: The TTLS is responsible for the delivery and capture of all relevant through life support documentation and analysis which forms the basis of the Support Strategy, Support Plans and Schedules. You will work collaboratively with industry, engineers, the armed forces customer and end-users to support the design and/or in-service support of the product or support solution to ensure customer requirements are satisfactorily met.
Support Solution Junior Consultant DE&S Bristol £30,000 - £40,000pa Professional II Estimated timeline: 29/03/19 - 14/04/19 Post type Permanent Job Description: As a Junior Consultant we will provide you with first class training through our development scheme – once successfully completed you will advance to a Senior Consultant, at which point we will increase your salary by £3k per annum, plus further salary increases in line with performance. This highly rewarding role is to ensure the support and system of activities that enables defence equipment are serviceable and available to the front line armed forces.
WORK FOR DE&S For more info and job opportunities visit: www.des.mod.uk
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