Mar 11 Issue 34

desthe magazine for defenceider equipment and support

Typhoon clocks up the hours

Lord Levene delivers his first MOD reform See inside

Specs Sentinel Corsham’s Testing, Finding appeal shines global reach testing the range mar 2011 Arabia air forces oftheUK,Italy, Germany, Spain,Austria andSaudi aircraft. There are more than260aircraft inservice withthe across thesixairforces whooperate theleading edgecombat now passed thesignificant milestone of100,000flyinghours Typhoon, pictured above ontake offatRAFLeuchars, has cover image Insider 32 32 30 28 26 21 FEATURES

Typhoon clocks up100,000hours The regeneration game Cracking down ontheinsurgents Corsham unveils itsglobal reach Foxhound wantsto bealifesaver the new hubatCorsham. is available for protecting anddefending national air space. RAF works withDE&SandBAESystems to ensure Typhoon six airforces across Europe andSaudiArabia. IntheUK, Typhoon aircraft have passed 100,000 hours inservice with the cost oftheirtransport backhome. refresh, keep themfit for front lineduty, andsave money on facility opensatCampBastion to give vehicles aregular Afghanistan to theUKcould beathingofthepast asanew Shipping vehicles inneedofanoverhaul backfrom Afghanistan. forces andcoalition troops crack down onTaliban activityin – are continuing to playakey role inhelpinglocal security Sentinel aircraft –deploying theRAF’s stand offradar system the clock for UKArmedForces. and assures information andcommunication services around The Global Operations andSecurityControl Centre delivers latest setoftrials. ploughing across therough terrain ofBedfordshire inits of thenext generation oflightprotected patrol vehicles is It maybemiles from thefront linebutaprimeexample desider

takes alook inside

Picture: Geoff Lee Geoff Picture: 17 12 11 10 8 5 4 NEWS

Sharpening theshooters Carriers show joined-upthinking Future structure still uncertain Prime Minister backsC-17capability More success ontheammunitionfront Update to medical administration term ammunitioncontract withBAESystems. line isopening,anothersuccess for DE&S’long A new factory producing ammunitionfor thefront Bastion. of patientsusingthemedical centre atCamp New software isallsetto improve front linerecords equipment. skills usingthelatest generation oflive fire training British troops willbeable to improve theirshooting schedule. of ahead months two delivered been has equipment finder range and surveillance of batch final The Range-finders aheadofthegame the first timeatGovan. class aircraft carriers have beenmoved together for Two giantsectionsofthefirst ofthe what theMODdoes. Gray sayshebelieves DE&Sisafundamental partof In hislatest town hallsession withstaff Bernard Norton. Brize RAF to visit his during RAF the to aircraft C-17 transport seventh the welcomed has Cameron David Minister Prime

Queen Elizabeth Elizabeth Queen NEWS Bernard Gray 18 Rescue system takes flight The Nato Sub Rescue System will be packed up and flown to Norway to take part in its final tests. Chief of Defence Materiel 19 DE&S adds specs-appeal Front line troops will be issued with anti- blast protective glasses and goggles to ‘The Government has indicated that protect their eyes from after-effects of blasts. it does not intend to shrink the UK’s strategic ambitions, whatever the PEOPLE NEWS current economic difficulties’

38 Howard’s way A DE&S director is transforming the lives of some of India’s poorest children. Since I last wrote a desider clearly said that it will not be foreword to you, I have held able to maintain staffing levels 40 Clyde looks to education another set of town hall in military or civilian areas, Workers look at further eduction after a visit meetings in Abbey Wood, and early release schemes are from the Open University. visited Information Systems planned. and Services at Corsham, None of this makes it any PJHQ at Northwood and the easier for everyone to feel Atomic Weapons Establishment great about coming to work, desider at Aldermaston, met my and it is hard when you are opposite number in France, unclear about your future Assistant Head, Public Relations: worked with Defence Board career. Many of you have asked Ralph Dunn - 9352 30257 or 0117 9130257 [email protected] colleagues in Main Building me, both individually and in on next year’s budget and the groups, for guidance about the Investment Approvals Board way forward within DE&S, to Deputy Editor: Steve Moore - 9352 30537 or 0117 9130537 on projects, started work on help you shape your decisions [email protected] our Conversation on Change in about what you choose to do in Abbey Wood, and been for my coming months. Distribution Manager: first encounter with the Public Unfortunately, I cannot be Dick Naughton - 9352 34342 or 0117 9134342 Accounts Committee. as clear as I would like to be, [email protected] It’s been a busy few weeks, because not all of the issues and my one regret is that I have are yet clear, but I can say this. Advertising: not had enough time to wander Some of you may feel that the Anthon Linton – Ten Alps Publishing, 1 New Oxford the floorplates and get to know time is right for you to change Street, High Holborn, London WC1A 1NU Tel: 020 7657 more of you informally. I hope direction, and I respect that. 1828 to set that straight in coming But for those of you who wish [email protected] weeks and months, but in truth, to stay with the great defence I don’t see the pace slackening family, there will continue to be off for quite some time. great challenge, excitement, There is a tremendous and opportunity. amount of change running The UK will remain one Printing: through the MOD at the of the foremost military moment. The implementation powers in the world, staffed of the SDSR, grappling with by the most dedicated, skilled, the implications of the MOD’s highly trained personnel, with budget settlement in shaping among the most sophisticated what resources we have and equipment available anywhere. desider is distributed free of charge to DE&S employees where we apply them, working The Government has indicated and the equipment capability sponsor. Copies can also with Lord Levene’s Defence that it does not intend to shrink be made available to readers outside the MOD, including Reform Unit which may the UK’s strategic ambitions, those in the defence industries. While the editorial team takes care to ensure all material produced is accurate, fundamentally reshape the way whatever the current economic no liability can be accepted for errors or omissions. the department is organised, difficulties. Views expressed in desider, and the products and and trying to deliver on our That offers the long term services advertised, are not necessarily endorsed by core job of supporting our prospect of exciting careers DE&S or the MOD. Armed Forces on operations and the opportunities for © Crown Copyright and in training, and delivering meaningful service. There will their new equipment is hugely be turbulence ahead, we can This magazine is produced on challenging for us all. all see that. But there is also Cocoon 50 Silk which contains As well as being incredibly life beyond that turbulence, 50 per cent recycled and de- busy, I recognise that this is and I would like to work with inked pulp from post consumer also a time of great uncertainty all of you to create that future waste and Forest Stewardship Council certified material from for many people. In a time of DE&S through our Conversation well-managed forests. great change, one of the few on Change. It is our chance to certainties is that the MOD has shape our future. 4 news NEWSREEL Prime Minister puts C-17 FSTA passes fuel test The Airbus seal on Afghan airbridge Military A330 has successfully passed fuel to receiver aircraft Prime Minister David Cameron using the Fuselage Refuelling Unit has welcomed the seventh C-17 (FRU) for the first transport aircraft to the RAF. time – meaning that Mr Cameron was at RAF Brize all of the aircraft’s Norton for the arrival of the aircraft refuelling systems which will bolster the airbridge have now been between the UK and front line demonstrated. operations. In a three hour sortie from Getafe Mr Cameron said: “What I am near Madrid on 21 looking at today is the investment January, the Future that we’re making to make sure Strategic Transport that we succeed in Afghanistan, Aircraft variant for and make sure we have got the very the RAF conducted best airbridge between Britain and a series of ‘wet Afghanistan. contacts’ with two F-18 fighters of the “This aircraft can carry three Spanish air force at Apache helicopters, or take a whole around 15,000ft and Chinook helicopter. up to 325 knots. “It’s a very efficient piece of The FRU is a Above: one of the equipment and it’s very good probe and drogue RAF’s fleet of seven news that we are investing in this similar to those C-17s fitted under the – evidence that we’re giving our Forces the capability, the flexibility wings, but with a Left: Mr Cameron on and the mobility that they need to higher rate of fuel board the latest C-17 transfer, and which which has arrived at do the job that we ask them to. is also developed RAF Brize Norton “It’s lovely to be here and and supplied by say thank you to the people who Cobham of the UK. Below: meeting RAF are here working very hard to personnel make sure the airbridge between Afghanistan and Britain is open Deterrent and working well.” taking shape The C-17 can carry loads up to 70 tonnes and Replacement will join six other aircraft Vanguard which make up the RAF’s 99 submarines will be powered by Squadron. a pressurised Defence Secretary, Dr water reactor, as Liam Fox, said: “The RAF’s was the case with C-17 fleet has provided previous classes outstanding service in of submarine, support of operations and Defence Secretary humanitarian relief efforts Dr Liam Fox has announced. Precise around the world. configuration of the “The fleet has already reactor is under clocked up an impressive consideration as 65,000 flying hours during part of the Initial its missions. The C-17 is a Gate decision. real workhorse in the RAF fleet.” Specialist high strength steel needed for the hull structure Estates sees Lord Levene deliver his first MOD reform for the first boat A single organisation to manage defence property A single infrastructure organisation will provide is included as a has been created which will deliver better strategic effective support to our military personnel and better long-lead item in management of the military estate, as well as savings strategic management of the defence estate.” the Initial Gate of £1.2 billion over the first four years. The new organisation will manage the majority business case for The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) of infrastructure services across defence and take the programme, will bring together all those working on estate and on the estate management responsibilities of he added. This is infrastructure activity from across the MOD. its predecessor Defence Estates, overseeing the due to the length of This is the first change by the Defence Reform physical maintenance of buildings and equipment time needed for the Unit under Lord Levene to overhaul the structure of including support services, such as cleaning and mill run. The order the department. catering, as well as energy and water for the estate. must be placed Defence Secretary Dr Liam Fox said: “Our Armed From 1 April, DIO will bring together roughly prior to Main Gate Forces and their families deserve the best possible 7,000 staff, the vast majority of whom are civilian. in order not to facilities in which to live, work, and prepare for The MOD expects a reduction of about 2,500 posts put at risk the in- operations, within the current financial situation. by 2014. service date. news 5

NEWSREEL Contracts beef up Bowman

Three contracts hav been signed with General Dynamics UK to help Bowman users operating in Afghanistan increase their ability to counter the threat of improvised explosive devices through better information sharing. With a value of £33 million, the three contracts will provide:

Bernard Gray • Improved welcomes a US connectivity between Senate delegation Forward Operating to Abbey Wood Bases and Patrol Bases. • Improved tactical situational awareness • Improved Future DE&S structure shared situational awareness

“These latest contracts is still in the pipeline demonstrate that our customer has DE&S is a fundamental part Mr Gray said he hoped our efforts,” he said. “There every confidence of what the MOD does. And an informal consultation were a number of common that Bowman is doing the job we there will be rewarding careers document would be published themes. What is the vision from promised it would, for those who remain with the in about three months, based the top? You also wanted to know and it is the platform organisation when it emerges on conversations with staff now the senior management thought from which many from its restructuring. under way, and the intention was processes. I understand that. other operational These were two of the main that by late spring there would “You wanted to know about advantages can and messages to staff from Chief of be an overall vision of what the the future of the MOD and DE&S are springing”, said Defence Materiel Bernard Gray future DE&S would look like. and our place in that. There is Andrew Browne, vice president of C4I at at his latest town hall session at “It is still a time of particular an Early Release Scheme that is GD UK. Abbey Wood on 14 February. uncertainty – it’s a very difficult intended to begin the process of “We are the intelligent time for defence overall. People staff reduction. I am conscious customer group for the MOD, we want me to say that there is that people’s decisions inlight of F-35 tests manage the risk and the supplier some clarity and certainty and this have a bearing on the future moving on base in delivering materiel for whether we can understand organisation’s role.” defence needs. I think that is an where we are going,” he said. Mr Gray said he had BAE Systems’ new important role and goes beyond appointed Maj-Gen Chris F-35 Lightning II test brigading contracts,” he said. Deverell to work with Head pilot Peter Wilson “If our supply base messes of Business Change Rachel has become the first up we end up with the problem. ‘I think there will Baguley, and the Chief of Staff non-US pilot to fly the Carrier Variant of If the supply base promises to on determining what the future be some interesting the aircraft, the UK’s deliver and then fails to deliver DE&S structure should be. chosen F-35 variant. then it’s our problem and not and exciting “When we know what the BAE Systems are just theirs. We have a role to play organisation will look like I think playing a key role in to reduce risk. We also need to careers here’ there will be some exciting and the F-35 flight test manage risk, individually and interesting careers here,” he programme. collectively. This is an area of said. “Flying the F-35 felt exactly like it does potential development for us.” “The problem I have to report “The defence budget is flying the simulators Another area for change was back is that very few of these out of balance; there will be a I have trained on the way that MOD approached positions have been resolved. significant job on our hands to for the past five the overarching equipment It is unsettling for everyone get it back in balance. years,” he said. “This budget, he said. Planners tended because of the uncertainty of our “But there will continue to really is testament to collate optimistic views of direction of travel.” be substantial Armed Forces in to the work that pricing and the funding across Mr Gray thanked those who the UK which will still need to has been done in terms of modeling large numbers of projects, attended a week of focus group be supported by DE&S and that’s and simulation and without taking fully into account sessions last month. “We asked not going to go away. This is an it gives me huge the impact of aggregating too you what DE&S was for. I actually opportunity to participate in confidence, not only much activity at one time. The think that is fundamental – creating that organisation. It will in the aircraft but in problem was at the aggregate unless we are clear about what mean change, but we will end up the training package level, not at the individual project we do and what we don’t do it with a stronger organisation at that precedes it.” level, he said. will be difficult for us to focus the end of it.” 6 news

NEWSREEL Final end of Grizzly comes in the Harriers from the cold! There are no plans to retain the retired Harrier aircraft as a reserve or an emergency capability, Minister for Defence Equipment, Support and Technology Peter Luff has told MPs. “The Harrier fleet is currently in storage and is receiving minimum maintenance including anti- Airbus Military’s second A400M development A340-300 carrying support equipment and the deterioration aircraft – Grizzly 2 – visited Kiruna in northern personnel team. These tests followed preliminary measures to keep Sweden for four successful days of cold weather cold weather work in Hamburg last December the aircraft in an trials on the powerplant in temperatures down to and will be followed by further tests in more airworthy condition -21 degrees Centigrade last month. extreme temperatures at Kiruna and other places for possible sale,” The A400M was accompanied by an Airbus this spring and next winter. he said. “It is too early to say what the final disposal arrangements will be and any associated storage costs will be considered as part of New food hits the spot that process.”

Contract value

From 12 May last year to 31 December, 1,401 MOD contracts started which exceeded the EU public procurement threshold of £40,000, to a total contract value of up to £3.8 billion. Of these, 804 had been let non- competitively, with a total value of up to New food tested by its £0.9 billion, according severest critics – front to figures released in line soldiers Parliament. Figures are not yet available ‘Quick, easy and well thought out for this year. Report: for the needs of the soldier’ Hannah Swingler Reissue

JSP 520 – the Troops on the front line military chefs feeding troops in been well thought out for the MOD’s safety and have given a thumbs-up to new more remote tactical bases. needs of the soldier.” environmental improved operational ration Private Ryan Salmon from Every ration pack is management of packs, including a lightweight D Company, 2nd Battalion The nutritionally tailored to suit munitions, has been version and a host of new menus. Parachute Regiment, said: “The troops’ needs in different reissued in two parts, Designed for troops on new 12-hour ration pack is a environments and developed to policy and guidance leaflets. JSP 520 patrols lasting 12 hours or great change from the normal ensure they are provided with addresses the five less, the new lightweight pack rations. the 4,000 or more calories a day main elements of a weighs less than one kilogram. “It contains beef jerky and they need to keep their energy management system It includes food that can be a sandwich which is great for a levels up while on active service. – policy, organisation eaten quickly on operations or quick meal, the chemical water Captain Jeremy Rigby and arrangements, conveniently carried in webbing heater and main meal are good RN, head of DE&S’ Defence planning and pouches and pockets. when you are on short ops; and Food Services, said: “This implementation, measuring The food is being delivered you can get a quick warm scoff demonstrates our ongoing performance under a £140 million contract and not worry about messing commitment to respond to and audit, and signed with Hampshire-based around with a cooker.” feedback from our troops in performance review. Purple Food Services, unveiled Private Shaun Stranack from Afghanistan. We are making Details of the updates in desider before Christmas. Support Company, 2nd Battalion sure we give them food they can be found by The latest meals feature new The Parachute Regiment added: enjoy while maintaining the typing JSP 520 in selections of food in the multi- “The new 12-hour ration packs high nutritional content – as well the Defence Intranet search panel. climate ration packs as well as taste great, are quick, easy and as making the packs as light and the ten-man versions used by efficient and the contents have convenient as possible.” Connecting & Protecting

Towards a safer world.

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e-mail: [email protected] 8 news NEWSREEL More joined-up thinking Carriers count their crew The number of crew from carrier builders members currently planned for the carrier variant-configured Queen Elizabeth class carriers is 760, responsible for running the ship and its systems. The number of additional air wing personnel Now you will vary according see her: to operational the first deployment and the two giant aircraft on board sections at the time, Armed are Forces Minister prepared Nick Harvey has told for Parliament. moving together MRA4 disposal

Nimrod MRA4 aircraft are being dismantled by Metal and Waste Recycling Ltd, one of the contractors used to dispose of surplus Construction of the first remote controlled transporters completion will weigh more defence equipment of the two new aircraft carriers an hour to move 1,221 tonnes of than 9,300 tonnes and stand in accordance with European Union for the Royal Navy, HMS Queen steel over 100 metres across the more than 23 metres tall, 63 procurement Elizabeth, has taken a huge shipyard. metres long and 40 metres wide. regulations, step forward as workers at BAE The hull section was then She is set to embark on Minister for Defence Systems’ Govan yard moved manoeuvred carefully into the next stage of her journey Equipment, Support two giant sections of the hull position to line up with the rest to Rosyth in the latter part of and Technology together for the first time. of the block. this year, where HMS Queen Peter Luff has told The structure is so big that The two sections brought Elizabeth will be assembled in Parliament. it fills an entire hall at Govan together form the mid section the dry dock. and now extends beyond the of the hull up to the hangar BAE Systems is also Tank crossing doors onto the yard, providing deck and is referred to as Lower constructing the main stern a spectacular view from across Block 03. section at its yard on the Clyde, Costs of work on the River Clyde. Workers will now continue which is the largest and most tank crossings as It took a team of 20 staff and to outfit the block, which on complex section of the carrier. part of the project to provide safe access for military vehicles o Score Marine will across Salisbury Stores play big part in carrier programme supply and manage Plain’s training area around 12,000 valves will be around £2.4 of various types and million, excluding VAT, A warehouse near Glasgow is tech electronic components to fire specification for the new according to figures in playing a crucial role storing around fighting equipment. carriers. Parliament. As part of the Score 3.5 million internal fittings and The equipment is supplied contract, Rotork will other equipment before installation to all shipyards involved in the supply more than 1,200 Abroad on ops on the Queen Elizabeth class build programme – Appledore, valve actuators, mostly aircraft carriers. Since the facility Birkenhead, Govan, Portsmouth, for the operation of ball The 9,500 service – the Central Warehouse run by Rosyth and Tyne – as required. and butterfly valves on personnel in Wincanton Logistics – went duties encompassing Afghanistan at the sea water, fresh water, live last May, more than end of January made chilled water, fuel and up the bulk of those 950 deliveries, covering fire-fighting systems. deployed overseas on nearly 3,000 different line operations, according items (or 3,522,155 separate o Brand-Rex will to the latest figures. items) have been received. provide a complete There were 1,300 at The warehouse covers fibre communications sea, 150 in Bahrain, 150,000 square feet, infrastructure for the carriers. The company’s 30 in Cyprus, 100 in consisting of a large area of Iraq, 450 in Oman, 150 fibre optic network racking and a bulk storage in Qatar, 1,500 in the will provide the robust South Atlantic and 50 area for larger items. infrastructure for all IP in the UAE. Figures, Around 75 per cent of based communications fluctuate daily and are the warehouse’s capacity requirements – from in addition to Forces has been used, storing voice and data systems permanently abroad. everything from high- to sophisticated aircraft deployment. Towards a safer world.

agustawestland.com

M-11-0025-01_A4.indd 1 14/02/2011 14:31:37 10 news

NEWSREEL Company Final range-finding units expands Maritime design delivered ahead of target and engineering company BMT Group is set to broaden its capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region The final batch of SSARF with the acquisition (Surveillance System and of port and harbour Range Finder) units have been engineering delivered to DE&S two months specialists, JFA ahead of programme schedule. Consultants of The last units were handed Perth, Western Australia. over by Thales UK to Colonel Bill Pointing, leader of the Going it alone Dismounted Soldier Systems (DSS) team. There are no A total of 707 SSARF units plans to involve have now been built at Thales other nations in UK’s optronics facility in the Combined Joint Glasgow under the terms of a Expeditionary Force £30 million contract awarded of France and the in February 2008. UK, according to Defence Secretary Despite an aggressive Dr Liam Fox. delivery schedule, the Thales Exercises aimed at programme, engineering increasing levels and manufacturing teams, of interoperability all working closely with their between the two counterparts at DE&S, have country’s forces are successfully concluded the planned this year. Colonel Bill Pointing of DE&S accepts one of the last batch of SSARF units prime equipment element of the from Stuart Boulton, left, managing director of Thales UK’s optronics contract. business Armour boost Col Bill Pointing said: “The SSARF project has been a daylight and thermal vision with of Thales UK’s land defence The next planned update to body great success; Thales and the eye-safe laser range finding business, said: “Delivery of armour will be DSS team have incorporated while embedded military global the final SSARF units ahead of through the Virtus the experience of delivering positioning satellite and azimuth schedule amply demonstrates programme the earlier Surveillance and angular referencing provide what can be achieved when currently in its Target Location System urgent accurate target location data for companies such as Thales and assessment phase, operational requirement into mortar and artillery fire control. the MOD work together in close Minister for Defence this important programme SSARF has now been co-operation. Equipment, Support and Technology and delivered excellent kit deployed operationally and is “Ultimately, Thales’ goal is Peter Luff has early, which the user is already providing UK troops with an to provide troops with reliable, announced. exploiting on operations.” ultra-lightweight, compact, leading edge and affordable SSARF units are the size of a multi-role, night vision target equipment and we are delighted Union talks large pair of binoculars and used locator capability. the SSARF units are now in a similar way. They combine Alex Cresswell, in charge achieving this operationally.” Defence Under- secretary Andrew Robathan will continue to lead talks with trades unions over Diamond swings back to the Clyde civilian personnel reductions. Further meetings with Diamond, the Royal Navy’s third Daring the unions were class destroyer, made a return to the scheduled for the River Clyde last month. end of last month. The 7,500-tonne warship made her way to Loch Striven to make a brief refuelling stop before continuing her Gen Parker journey round the top of Scotland. She was en route to Aberdeen, the In a story on page city with which she is affiliated. 14 of February’s The Type 45 destroyer is currently desider magazine undergoing sea trials before she is we inadvertently formally commissioned into the Royal misspelt the name Navy in May. of Commander Diamond was built in the Govan in Chief Land shipyard on the River Clyde and was Forces General Sir launched on 27 November 2007. Nick Parker. We The ship was accepted off contract apologise for any at Portsmouth last year and is expected embarrassment to enter service in 2012. caused. news 11

British troops will be able to improve their shooting skills using the HMS Dumbarton Equipment sales latest generation of live fire training Castle was sold equipment. last year to earn UK £650m DE&S has signed a £37 million Bangladesh contract with Lockheed Martin UK to The MOD has earned more than £650 deliver the Small Arms Range Targetry million in revenue from sales of defence System (SARTS), which will provide live- equipment since 1997, Minister for fire training to soldiers. International Security Strategy Gerald Howarth has told MPs. They will be able to practice on Total sales included six Wessex the system with a variety of weapons helicopters, 12 former Royal Navy patrol currently used on operations in vessels, four former conventionally powered Afghanistan including the SA80 and patrol submarines, seven former mine the L129 Sharpshooter rifles as well countermeasures vessels, three former as machine guns and the L115A3 Long Type 22 frigates and three Type 23 frigates, Range Rifle. two former Royal Fleet Auxiliary Landing Ships Logistic and 20 Rapier air defence Project leader Nick Taylor of DE&S’ missile systems. Joint and BattlefieldT rainers, Simulation The biggest sales were for former Royal and Synthetic Environments, said: “Our Navy frigates and submarines, MPs were troops face a variety of threats from the told in a written answer. Four submarines enemy on operations including small to Canada in 1998 earned £227 million, Type arms fire. 22 frigates London and Coventry to Romania “So we must make sure our personnel earned £116 million, while Sheffieldto Chile earned a further £27 million. have the best possible training to prepare Three former Type 23 frigates, Norfolk, them for the realities of the front line and Grafton and Marlborough, earned a further this contract will help to achieve that. £134 million. “We want to ensure that British Forces are the best-prepared in the world and to maintain this we must have the best Report: training equipment and Tim Foreman m e t h o d s available. “Live fire training is essential to Troops set ensure that soldiers can operate small arms with to be m a x i m u m effectiveness. “There is no substitute sharper for this e x p e r i e n c e and this shooters new system will help to improve the training t r o o p s receive.” Targets can pop up in a split second or move at high speed on tracks to test a soldier’s reaction times and the sound of enemy fire is also simulated to make the experience more CDM briefed on ISS during Corsham visit realistic. SARTS also features highly accurate marking systems that provide instant Bernard Gray made his first visit ongoing support to operations being feedback for trainers on a shooter’s as Chief of Defence Materiel to DE&S’ provided by ISS delivery teams and performance. Information Systems and Services in industry partners. It will be used by the Army, Royal Corsham on 4 February. He was also briefed on the ISS Marines and RAF Regiment personnel. The visit was hosted by Director operating model and portfolio The first SARTS will be installed at the ISS Maj Gen Tim Inshaw and included approach to service acquisition small arms ranges at Sennybridge, used a tour of the Global Operations (incorporating Defence Core Networks by the Infantry Battle School, Brecon, Security Control Centre (GOSCC) Services) in addition to the latest news next March. and the new office accommodation and views from a selection of the ISS A total of 140 static and field firing that comprises the Corsham New business units, including the Network ranges at 50 UK and overseas sites will Environment. Technical Authority and Defence be installed under the contract by March Mr Gray was briefed fully on ISS’ Information Infrastructure. 2013. 12 news Advertisement New software updates It’s good to talk! medical admin system Much has been made in the media recently of the Armed Forces’ cuts and their Maintenance of front line medical records likely impact on the most continues to improve with release of new software critical part of the military – the operative at the front to Camp Bastion’s medical centre. line. Here, Julian Bryan of Initial release of the new application came Millbrook Proving Ground, in January for the treatment facility, which is one of the world’s leading now the equivalent of a major trauma centre in a military transport test and district general hospital. development facilities, takes The application will be introduced to the a look at how increased hospital to replace the existing system, creating communications between every tier of the supply automated patient and hospital administration. chain can help to minimise Bought under a £5 million contract last the impact of those cuts in September with UK-based Logica, the Whole theatre... Hospital Information System (WHIS) will mean that patients’ records will be more readily In light of the Government’s spending review, it is accessible to medical staff and authorised critical now that we are all personnel. endeavouring to make sure Mike Stapley, leader of DE&S’ Information that any impact from those Systems and Services’ Application Services efficiencies is minimised, team in charge of introducing the system, said: both in terms of the quality “This is a huge step forward for the hospital in of equipment at the frontline Camp Bastion and the introduction of this new and indeed morale. The way that can be done, across application will greatly reduce the administrative the supply chain, is through burden on staff. better partnership and “Although the previous system worked well, communication. the increase in the hospital’s use by personnel from across the coalition, along with members “In terms of better of Afghan forces and, in some cases, local partnership, it’s about the different arms of the supply civilians, has led to a greater need for automated chain working closer together information management. - industry, the end user Minister runs rule “This new software application will now and the purchasing arm of enable medical staff to access notes swiftly and the MOD. Interoperability over Audacious see a complete view of usage of hospital beds and between not only the industry resources.” but also the three services The application, which is already being used and also partner nations is Peter Luff, above right, Minister for Defence critical. Indeed, NATO policy Equipment, Support and Technology is pictured by some NHS Trusts in the UK will mean patients has always emphasised the during a visit to Barrow-in-Furness to see the can be tracked through the hospital from entry to importance of that tenet. Astute submarine programme. discharge with information being entered only He is pictured with Nigel Whitehead, group once into the system, but used many times. “Communication is also managing director of BAE Systems Programme A second release of functionality is planned paramount, now more so than and Support. The submarine in the background for the end of 2011, which aims to provide ever. The newly appointed is Audacious, the fourth in the Astute class. Chief of Defence Material, interoperability with radiology and pathology Bernard Gray has commented systems. that communications are key part of his plan for DE&S. As a result, it is critical that RFA Cardigan Bay has returned to lines of contact exist between Falmouth for maintenance after three Bay completes three-year task each tier of the supply chain years in the Gulf. and that those links are While away the ship was robust and open to people maintained by members of the expressing their opinion. Cluster Support team, a joint venture This will further help to between A&P and the MOD based in improve kit at the front line Falmouth. and therefore benefit the end- Kevin Murray, Cluster Support user in theatre”. leader for the MOD, said: “Providing maintenance to the ships while For more information visit they are on long term deployment www.millbrook.co.uk or call demonstrates the flexibility and 01525 404242 advantages of the MOD working jointly with industry. It’s cost-effective because it minimises down time, making sure the vessel is available for operational requirements.” Work included equipment upgrades to cooling and weapons systems, dry docking, operational Hard at work: RFA Cardigan Bay has been in support and general upkeep, and the Arabian Gulf for three years took place in ship yards in Dubai and Bahrain. tried, tested, true

When the heat is on, you can depend on Paradigm. Via the Skynet 5 satellite constellation, we provide the world’s most advanced, resilient, secure and fl exible military satellite communications service. We are Paradigm: with us, everything connects. Learn more at: paradigmservices.com/connect/desider 14 news

Farewell to the RAF’s oldest in-service aircraft

T&E begins here

Picture: Geoff Lee www.planefocus.com

The oldest in-service aircraft in the RAF retired at the end of January. Operated by the RAF at Cranwell the Hawker Siddeley 125 Dominie, pictured above, provided training for all rear crew. It was originally procured in the 1960s to train navigators and served for more than 45 years. Group Captain David Waddington, Station Commander at RAF Cranwell, said: “Retiring any aircraft from service is always a poignant moment but it is also a time to commemorate the outstanding service the Dominie has provided to the RAF.” Cancellation of the Nimrod MRA4 and a reduction in the Features number of Tornado GR4s has resulted in the RAF ceasing any further weapons system officer (formerly navigator) training • Capabilities • Sites and Ranges following graduation of the current course. It has also removed the requirement to train weapons system operators • Innovation • Facilities in the sensor operator role for the next few years. Where airborne training is now required the King Air • Case Studies • News aircraft at RAF Cranwell will be used.

www.LTPA.co.uk is designed to be the starting point for all MOD teams who have a T&E requirement. It aims to give you all the information Wendy leads the way you need about the Long Term Partnering Agreement (LTPA) between Wendy Barnes will hold the next lunchtime seminar at QinetiQ and MOD for test, evaluation and training support. Abbey Wood. The DE&S non-executive director will be speaking on 11 March in the Central Facilities Building from 1-2pm. Future seminars include Simon Jewell of BAE Systems To find out how the LTPA can meet your T&E requirements, go to: (18 May); Minister for Defence Equipment, Support and Technology Peter Luff (22 June); Susan Scholefield, DG Human Resources and Corporate Services (19 July); Sir Ian www.LTPA.co.uk Andrews, former 2nd PUS (15 September); Jacky Ridley, Chief Executive Defence Vetting Agency (20 October); Jon Thompson, DG Finance (24 November). Bookings to [email protected] or tel www.LTPA.co.uk is a QinetiQ registered domain name. 96161 4828. news 15

Transport Search engine: an RAF Secretary Philip search-and-rescue Sea Hammond told MPs in King on exercise a written statement on February 8: “On 16 December I and my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Defence announced that information had come to light regarding the preferred bid in the Search And Rescue Helicopter competition which required clarification. “In mid-December, the preferred bidder in the SAR-H competition, Soteria, voluntarily came forward to inform MOD and DfT make joint announcement the Government of irregularities regarding the conduct of their bid team which on future of search-and-rescue helicopters had only then recently come to light. “The irregularities included access by one of the consortium members, CHC Helicopter, to commercially sensitive information regarding Opening salvo in fight to the joint MOD/ DfT project team’s evaluations of industry bids and evidence that a former member beat anti-ship missiles of that project team had assisted the consortium in its bid preparation, contrary The UK and France are to explicit assurances developing an off-board decoy given to the project which can defeat advanced team. anti-ship missiles. “Since December, Accolade is a bilateral our two departments research project with DE&S’ have been working with Soteria to Underwater and Electronic understand better Warfare team as the contracting the situation and authority. its implications for Thales, awarded a £14.4 the procurement million contract, is working on process. In addition, a complete decoy, consisting of the MOD Police are investigating how the a carrier and electronic warfare commercially sensitive payload, fired from a launcher information came to and sent clear of the ship. be in the possession Once the decoy slows down of the bidder. It would from the ballistic trajectory, be inappropriate to the positional vehicle begins comment further jamming. on the details of the investigation until it As a missile nears the Trevor McKerlich, DE&S’ overall project manager, front left and Daniel Gilderthorp, Thales project manager, with members of the joint team has finished. target ship the decoy can be “However, even manoeuvred into position, without the outcome where it aims to ‘distract’ or The contract was launched DE&S’ overall project of that investigation, disturb the range and accuracy in January and involves flight manager Trevor McKerlich of the Government have of the missile seeker guidance and laboratory testing of the the Underwater and Electronic sufficient information system. prototype. Warfare team, said: “Accolade to enable them to conclude that the If the missile seeker is Field and sea trials will is bringing together the UK and irregularities that have already locked onto the ship be conducted before contract France to deliver naval decoy been identified were in final attack phase, the decoy completion in May 2014. capabilities. such that it would can ‘seduce’ the seeker by The decoy is planned for “This contract award not be appropriate to presenting a larger radar cross Type 45, Type 23 and new Type proves both nations can work proceed with either signature, in comparison to the 26 vessels for the Royal Navy closely together while driving the preferred bid host platform, which draws the and two classes of frigates for down procurement costs in a or with the current procurement process.” missile away from the ship. France’s Marine Nationale. challenging financial climate.” 16 news Helicopter move will boost front line support

DE&S’ Helicopters Operating Centre change manageable, the programme As well as improving communication, has successfully completed all phases of was delivered in two phases. The first the consolidation from five sites to three its collocation. in early July last year involved the Sea has significantly reduced infrastructure In 2008 the centre had staff spread King team moving from Sherborne, costs, thus releasing money for the front across five sites with Chinook and Puma/ an expensive privately rented site, to line. Gazelle teams split between Abbey Yeovil to collocate with AgustaWestland, Pete Worrall, DE&S Director Wood and Yeovilton. Now, the centre their main industry partner. They also Helicopters, said: “This has been a has successfully completed collocation, joined Merlin, Apache and the Joint major and at times daunting change reducing to three main sites with Modification Service at the same place. programme noting the impact on Chinook and Puma/Gazelle now together This was followed in late July by individuals and the fact that the at Abbey Wood. To make such a major Rotary Wing Support Group (RWSG) collocating teams are heavily involved in who moved from Middle Wallop to support to operations. Yeovilton enabling closer working with “Today, the addition of SPMAP, the rest of the Helicopters centre. Chinook and P2G Project Teams at The second phase, under the Abbey Wood, coupled with the earlier overarching DE&S collocation moves of Sea King and RWSG, is a major programme, last month saw Special step forward in our drive to increase Projects Multi Air Platforms (SPMAP), efficiency and effectiveness in supporting Chinook and Puma Gazelle teams the front line. collocated from Yeovilton to Abbey “It has been achieved by hard Wood. work and commitment of those staff Since then, as part of additional collocating, the Helicopters collocation business transformation, Puma Gazelle team managing the move and the DE&S and Puma HC2 have also now merged collocation team supporting us and I am into a single team under a single leader very grateful to them all for enabling Pete Worrall, centre, welcomes the teams to and now called Puma 2 Gazelle (P2G). collocation to be successfully achieved.” Abbey Wood

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Ammunition supplies – MASS facts o MASS, a long term partnering agreement, was signed with BAE Systems in August the successes mount up 2008. o It covers around 60 per cent by value and 80 per cent by A new factory producing volume of the general ammunition for the front line munitions consumed opens for business this month. annually by UK Forces in operational theatres The factory at Washington and on training ranges. in Tyne and Wear will take over o Ammunition covered machining of large calibre tank, includes small arms, mortar and artillery ammunition medium calibre, from a nearby site at Birtley. mortar bombs, tank, BAE Systems’ Global artillery and naval gun Combat Munitions is making the shells. o MASS is worth move to the site of an old Dunlop at least £2 billion factory. over 15 years, with The company is spending £75 potential to exceed £3 million on the new site and 350 billion depending on employees will make the move in the tempo of future batches until the end of this year. operations. o Under the The move is part of the agreement, BAES is MASS programme (Munitions carrying out a five- Acquisition, the Supply year £120 million Solution), DE&S’ long term Forging ahead: BAES’ new forge at Washington which transformation to £2 billion contract with the can turn out a shell body every minute modernise its three company to secure supplies of sites at Glascoed ammunition to the front line. (south Wales), Radway Green (near Crewe) The keys for Washington and Birtley (County were handed over in January. “We are taking employees Global Combat Systems Durham). Once fully operational the round the new plant with their managing director, added: o This will guarantee a facility will house a modern managers because we want “MASS allows us to take a long long–term sustainable 250-tonne forge run remotely their suggestions on layouts and term view and BAE Systems UK based munitions from a control room. workflow.” is investing more than £120 production capability. It will also carry out Colonel Andy Gibson, leader million over the next five years o Supply of high quality munitions machining of large calibre tank, of DE&S General Munitions to accelerate transformation under MASS has mortar and artillery ammunition team, said: “Our troops require of our munitions sites been outstanding using robotic machining cells high-quality ammunition into modern, safer, highly with on time delivery and new, environmentally- delivered in a timely fashion automated, energy efficient and performance of friendly, paint and treatment and the MASS contract between flexible facilities.” 99.95 per cent in capabilities. the MOD and BAE Systems is Sunderland City Council 2009 followed by “These are exciting times delivering just that. has awarded factory prime 98 per cent in 2010, compared to around for our people,” said site boss “We see this as a deal which contractor Bowmer and 70 per cent under Lee Smurthwaite. “All the is good for the taxpayer, good for Kirkland, and architect Archial, previous contractual Washington buildings are now local jobs and most importantly, a building excellence award arrangements. complete and we want to get on good for the front line.” 2011 for the best commercial with the move. Charlie Blakemore, BAES’ building under its local control.

Pyeroy wins more contracts on Kent’s Rosyth refit

Pyeroy Ltd has been awarded a series of support contracts by Babcock worth more than £2 million to Lessons learned: HMS Argyll is provide services for the refit ofHMS Kent over the next back in the Fleet eleven months at Rosyth. The work will see Pyeroy’s marine division providing scaffolding access, containment, painting, insulation and cleaning services for the Type 23 frigate. This is being undertaken for the main refit contractor and dockyard operator, Babcock, and is an essential part of a maintenance programme that will improve the physical coatings throughout the ship as well as all her weapon and machinery systems. This latest set of contracts follows on from a similar series of work packages carried out by Pyeroy on Type 23 frigate HMS Argyll which underwent a major refit at Rosyth from September 2009 through to last July. She is now back in the Fleet 18 news Final homecoming

HMS Chatham made her final homecoming to Plymouth last month after 20 years’ service across the globe. Well-wishers waved the frigate home – all four Type 22 frigates are being decommissioned as part of last October’s Strategic Defence and Security Review – as she sailed across Plymouth Sound. She was joined by the support ship RFA Fort George, pictured right, which is also being retired. HMS Chatham’s commanding officer, Commander Simon Huntington, said: “These ships are the longest serving frigates in o the Royal Navy and given the requirement to reduce the number of RFA Fort George commanding officer Captain Jamie Murchie has saluted the work of his replenishment ship, above, as it unloaded surface units it is sensible to decommission our older assets.” equipment and cargo on its final visit to Plymouth. HMS Chatham’s sister ships HMS Cornwall, HMS Cumberland “The ship’s multi-role and flexibility has been the key to her and HMS Campbeltown will continue to support operations in the success in humanitarian and operational tasks over the years,” he Middle East and in UK waters until later this year. said. RFA Fort George, one of two auxiliary oiler replenishment HMS Chatham was laid down at Swan Hunter in 1986 and was class ships, was built by Swan Hunter and entered service in 1994. launched in 1988. She is being withdrawn because of a need to reduce the number of auxiliaries required to support a reduced fleet.

The Faslane-based Nato Submarine Rescue System Rescue (NSRS) is off to Norway this month on its final test. The high-tech system will be packed up and flown for the first time to prove that it can be sent to a submarine in system distress anywhere in the world within just 56 hours. “The system works,” said Brian Grant, base manager for the NSRS. “We’ve proved that time and time again in all set various exercises. The one thing we’ve never done though is transport the entire system by plane and that’s what we’re doing for this exercise. to take “The first step will be to load everything onto the back of 28 lorries. Once we’ve done that we will move them to Prestwick airport where the equipment will be put onto flight two Boeing C-17 Globemasters and three Antonov 124 aircraft. “Everything will be flown out to Norway and from there we will unload the planes and get the system put on board a mother ship. To help us we have a Babcock support mobilisation team of 12 people, plus a team of welders who International are always on standby should we get called out for real. rescue “This is just the final tick in the box so thatR olls-Royce, underwater: who operate the system, can prove to the MOD that they’ve the system’s got a working system that can be deployed anywhere.” remote vehicle is set Jointly owned by the UK, French and Norwegian to take to the navies, the NSRS is made up of a remotely operated vehicle air to locate a submarine in trouble, the rescue vehicle itself which can dive up to 610 metres and evacuate 15 people at a time, and a portable decompression and medical support unit which can take up to 68 people. news 19

Advertisement DE&S adds specs-appeal!

New combat eyewear gives troops better protection from bomb blasts Support in Report: the most Hannah Swingler challenging of climates

The fast response and mobility of the armed forces is critical to the success of every Above: Revision Sawfly Troops in Afghanistan are to be eyewear. Right: Ant mission and posting, it issued with enhanced anti-blast goggles is therefore essential protective combat sunglasses and that the support services goggles to protect their eyes from the behind the scenes are as after effects of bomb blasts. responsive to the needs The Sawfly Military Eyewear of troops. System and the Bullet Ant Goggle System, both designed to provide Critical to the delivery powerful ballistic protection from of such services is dirt and debris thrown up by the ability to adapt, Improvised Explosive Devices, will understand and also protect soldiers’ eyes from the overcome the challenges harsh elements of the front line. faced by individuals, Bought under a £3.4 million particularly when interim contract with Canadian firm Revision, the sunglasses and goggles they are posted in will be issued to all troops due to be some of the world’s deployed to theatre this September. most challenging Colonel Peter Rafferty, leader of environments. DE&S’ Personal Combat Equipment It is here that the team, said: “All troops currently experience of Interserve in Afghanistan are issued with in providing a whole protective eyewear as standard and these new additions are an range of services from enhancement over what is already cleaning, catering and out there. equipment maintenance, “In addition to the ballistic to base relocation and protection these items offer, IEDs complete facilities are a significant threat to our troops management, plays an in theatre and the debris and dirt important role. thrown up from a blast can be just as harmful to troops as the initial blast Having supported troops or fragmentation itself. in countries like Cyprus “This protective eyewear is the and The Falkland Islands, best chance they have of minimising we are experienced injuries to the eyes while still at delivering practical maintaining situational awareness solutions that help and thus the ability to do their jobs.” The glasses are just the latest in a series of improvements to combat the added Jonathan Blanshay, chief made to troops’ personal kit to mitigate the threat from IED’s in pressures of operating in executive of Revision, added: “The theatre. challenging climates. focus behind all Revision eyewear Upgraded kneepads were issued to troops last September is to meet and exceed the stringent and protective combat gloves with knuckle protection and weapon friendly grips are also due to enter service later this requirements set forth by our year. military customers. It’s an honour to An enhanced version of the popular under body armour be supplying UK troops with what we combat shirt with ballistic material added to the collar and believe to be the best performance- cuffs and improved protective pads in the forearms is under www.interserve.com enhancing eye protection products.” development for issue in the near future. 20 news

Moorings for a barge used in Sea Viper missile firing trials have been recovered from the seabed off France by a DE&S team. The Catenary Anchor Leg Mooring system, known as the Longbow CALM, was successfully recovered from the Banc du Magaud off the Isle de Levant, France on 16 Barge moorings removed January. It had been used to provide a mooring for a modified barge used as missile tests complete as a platform for live firing trials of the missiles which 100mm diameter subsea chain will equip the Type 45 destroyers. using a ROV mounted underwater DE&S’ Salvage and Marine cutting disc. Operations team was tasked with As the Longbow mooring had recovering the equipment from been in a marine protected area the seabed. close to the Pelagos Sanctuary Removal of the eleven-metre for Mediterranean marine diameter, 175-tonne buoy took mammals, Salvage and Marine two weeks using the commercially Operations project officers made chartered ship Normand Pioneer. sure removal did not disturb the This involved the use of local ecosystem. remote operated subsea vehicles “As well as achieving a 50 (ROVs) and removal of more than per cent saving in project costs, 1,200 tonnes of subsea chains, the successful completion of anchors and wires in depths of the recovery of the Longbow up to 200 metres. CALM returns a piece of the Recovery was hampered Mediterranean seabed to its Above: concentration at mission control as the ROV patrols the by strong currents and the original condition,” said a team depths. Top left: ready to get down to work requirement to accurately cut the spokesman. Top: back in port, mission accomplished Shipshape Bulwark is now back in the Fleet amphibious landing ship HMS involved overhaul of 1,625 items of “A number of challenges have been Bulwark has returned to the Fleet on equipment, manufacture of 1,557 items, addressed during the refit, including time and on budget after completing and shipping of 398 tonnes of equipment an extra 16 alterations and additions sea trials following an eleven-month on and off the ship. during the project, and completion of upgrade and maintenance by Babcock. More than 200 hull valves have the refit within the same timeframe as It was the ship’s first docking period been removed and replaced; 93 tanks Albion despite an additional 70,000 since being commissioned into the opened, cleaned and surveyed; 21 miles hours involved,” Babcock project Royal Navy in April 2005. of electrical cable installed; and 8,000 manager Mike Weeks said. The £30 million refit under the litres of paint applied to the ship’s outer “Successes have included Surface Ship Support Alliance, the bottom. achievement of all key milestones, an alliance between DE&S, Babcock and HMS Bulwark now has improved excellent safety culture, the adoption of BAE Systems, has benefited from aviation facilities and upgrades to the a single integrated plan, and efficiency knowledge and experience gained on welldock, including full tactical night- improvements such as the dockside sister vessel HMS Albion. vision capability by her landing craft services contract arrangements, as well The 450,000 staff hour refit has and aircraft. as an excellent partnering relationship.” foxhound 21

Getting fired up to lead Pictures: Andrew Linnett the hunt - Foxhound goes through its paces Pages 22 and 23 22 foxhound Foxhound aims to be another lifesaver

‘Our job is to ensure that the vehicles provide the maximum protection to our troops and keep them as safe as possible’ – DE&S programme manager

t may be many miles from the front line – or from anywhere for that Imatter – but a prime example of the next generation of light protected patrol vehicles is moving rapidly through its latest set of trials. Foxhound is the patrol vehicle which will be used by UK ground forces as they move around towns, villages and the surrounding countryside in Afghanistan. Around 200 will be built at a cost of £180 million to replace the current fleet of Land Rover-based vehicles, giving troops extra protection against the roadside bomb while still allowing them to be agile and effective in keeping the peace in Afghanistan. But it is at Millbrook’s proving ground in Bedfordshire that the vehicle is going through its paces. And while testing is going well, DE&S staff are conscious that, as part of the urgent operational requirement programme, Report: Steve Moore time is short to iron out any problems Pictures: Andrew Linnett before Foxhound goes into production later in the year. The first vehicles are likely to be delivered for training at the end of this year and for deployment next year. For programme manager Nick Foxhound makes a splash down under too Fox, deputy leader of DE&S’ Protected Mobility team, his time at Millbrook The first batch of Foxhounds will be delivered for training later this year with final is just the latest stage in the quest to vehicles to be completed by next spring. advance vehicles to the front line. Force Protection Europe’s vehicle made its first full public appearance last month at the “We are right at the front end of the International Armoured Vehicles exhibition at ExCel in London. programme now, conducting reliability Designed, developed and built in the UK by survivability specialist Force Protection growth tests here at Millbrook,” he said. Europe, together with Team Ocelot partners automotive specialist Ricardo plc, Thales, “It is a process to understand if there QinetiQ, Formaplex, DSG and Sula, Foxhound is regarded as the most highly protected and are any weaknesses in the design of the agile vehicle of its size and weight that is available today. It moved from concept to development over a remarkably short timeframe for a military vehicle before it goes into theatre, It’s vehicle. David Hind, Managing Director, Force Protection Europe, said, “Our prime goal for all about getting the niggles out of the this year is to meet the MOD’s schedule for the LPPV programme. However Ocelot’s success platform to make sure its 100 per cent. has also generated international interest in this ground breaking vehicle, which we hope “Next we go into a whole range of to see being developed for other markets; the first of these is Australia as we prepare to trials with the user including the fit of send two Ocelots – a utility and a command variant – down under for testing in the Land 121 the communications equipment which Phase 4 Project for the Protected Mobility Vehicle – Light prototype.” foxhound 23

to the current stage in a matter vital kit cocooned in a fully composite of months. “When we started pod, the like of which has saved many the programme we conducted a racing drivers from serious injury and market survey to see if there was worse over many years. With four-wheel Foxhound aims anything which could do the job steering it is light, agile and easy to on the open market,” he said. “It drive. And at just over two metres wide had to meet a very challenging it scores highly over other UK patrol requirement. And there wasn’t. A vehicles number of companies approached “One of the issues we have with the to be another it with a clean sheet of paper. larger vehicles is that when they are in As they were not restrained by the forward operating areas of Afghan legacy designs, so much more villages it is not as easy for them to get could be done. Industry have around,” said Nick. invested a lot of money in this “So this vehicle will be able to lifesaver programme. It has been really operate in these areas and won’t rapidly developed.” annoy the local Afghan population by Force Protection (Europe) has damaging their drains or bridges. It has led the way with its Ocelot vehicle. a very tight turning circle, which means Designed, developed and built it can virtually turn on itself.” in the UK, FP has been joined by All of which can be seen during ‘Our job is to ensure that the vehicles provide the automotive specialists Ricardo, trials at Millbrook, who are contracted Thales, QinetiQ, Formaplex, by DE&S for the Foxhound trials. maximum protection to our troops and keep them as DSG and Sula to make what “Millbrook is an all-in-one 24-7 testing industry boasts is the most highly facility which has everything we need safe as possible’ – DE&S programme manager protected and agile vehicle of its to stretch the vehicle in terms of its size and weight available today. mobility,” said Nick. The result, after only around a “They have all the surfaces that year of development, is Foxhound. you might encounter anywhere in the “We have taken what we have world. Obviously we have not got the will go inside the vehicle. We have achieved so far in the protected environment because we are in ‘sunny’ meetings with the users to understand patrol vehicle area – from heavy vehicles Bedfordshire but in terms of putting the how the user will stow all their kit. like Mastiff, to the medium vehicles such stresses and strains into the vehicle you Work on generic as Husky. This is can test the drive train and structures vehicle architecture the light part,” said and put it through its paces. (enabling crew Nick, “which is a “From hills to dips, you name it, it’s to manage power really challenging here, so it provides us with a one-stop and handle data ‘The lessons we have requirement, a shop for all our testing needs. Since the efficiently on the very lightweight demise of in-house testing in the MOD, vehicle, and for it learned from other vehicle (of around companies like Millbrook and others to be adapted when eight tonnes) but provide us with everything we require.” necessary) on this programmes have with very high Trials continue through most of the platform will be done protection levels. year. Nick’s team, responsible for the by Thales by mid- helped us develop the The lessons we vehicle’s through-life support, is already year and then there have learned from looking forward. “It would give me the are a lot more tests technology for this other programmes greatest pleasure when this vehicle and user trials. have helped saves lives,” he said. “ “Then we have vehicle’ us develop the “Our job is to ensure that the air transportability technology for this vehicles provide the maximum tests for safe stowage vehicle.” protection to our troops and keep inside aircraft. We Its V-shaped them as safe as possible. Should they have to make sure hull can withstand experience an IED event and do not we can safely fire weapons from the serious mine blasts while Formula One get injured then we have achieved our vehicle, and safely stow ammo inside. technology sees crew members and objective – that’s what we are here for.” We have to make sure the soldiers will fit inside the vehicle with their kit, and that they are comfortable and that we understand and meet their requirements. Nick added: “We still have some more mobility work to do to tick off against the requirement document. And a lot more work before we hand it over to the user and get it approved by the sponsor (Capability Ground Manoeuvre). “That’s the vehicle side. We are also concentrating on the support area too including training, spare parts and the publications that we will need to go with the vehicle. It’s ok delivering the vehicle as we see it at Millbrook, but it has to be supported too.” Nick and his team are proud of a Lessons learned: programme vehicle which has made it from scratch manager Nick Fox wth Foxhound at Millbrook 24 foxhound

Foxhound and the impact of battlefield testing

hen Foxhound starts to roam and others, and 50-miles of purpose built all vehicles and have done for 10-12 years. the front line next year, input tracks which simulate just about every We do a proper evaluation of a vehicle Wfrom Millbrook may well be surface anyone could encounter to help here. forgotten. the vehicle towards production. “Husky is a good example where a But technicians and engineers at the “Foxhound will be taken out on lot of its development work was done at 700-acre testing site close to the M1 in the facilities, driven for hundreds of Millbrook. In the field it has turned out to Bedfordshire will have played a huge role kilometres, washed down, then someone be some people’s weapon of choice. I put in making sure the light protected patrol will get underneath and tell us what is that down to a serious amount of testing vehicle can do the job it is supposed to do. good, bad and ugly,” said Julian. “The and making sure it’s working properly. Trials of the Force Protection whole point is that we get to a stage “There will always be equipment (Europe) vehicle are well on course, where we understand any weaknesses which goes wrong but you try to iron out results of which will inform the build the vehicle has and where it’s at from a as many of the problems as you can. We process when it takes place later this competence perspective. By the end of have finally got people to realise that, year. April we will know where we’re at. Then even in a really compressed timescale And it will be Millbrook’s input – in it will be time to go and build some.” like you have on the urgent operational a contract with DE&S which runs to the He added: “We do structural, requirement programme, you can do a lot end of the Foxhound testing programme repeatable Battlefield Mission testing on of work here.” – which will be vital to the final product, according to the proving ground’s Julian Bryan. “On Foxhound we have already had a significant impact helping the manufacturer, engineers and end customer realise the maximum potential from this vehicle. If our customers believe in our engineering judgment and our knowledge and the rigorous processes we apply in our operations here, then the end result will be a more successful vehicle. And the more enlightened – the MOD among them – listen to us.” That opinion on vehicles extends to helping choose the platform in the first place. “We are an independent testing authority with great knowledge about vehicles,” said Julian. “The question the MOD asked was, can we get a vehicle that could do what the Land Rovers used to do but now can’t do?” The choice was Ocelot – renamed Foxhound by DE&S. Now it’s up to DE&S, its partnership with Millbrook Millbrook-proved: Husky operating on patrol in Afghanistan C

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K 26 corsham Corsham unveils its global reach

ISS’ Global Operations he Global Operations and Security testament to the massive effort from all Control Centre (GOSCC) has involved with planning and executing and Security Control Tsuccessfully moved into the this move. Now fully commissioned it is Corsham New Environment, having business as usual for the GOSSC. Centre delivers and previously been nearby on the same site Around 200 people work in the at Basil Hill. GOSCC, a mix of military, MOD civilian assures information The move was a complex programme and contractor personnel from major of relocating personnel and a vast array industry partners involved in supporting and communication of IT and associated systems. the Defence Network, including Fujitsu, The new GOSCC contains 15km of BT DFTS, Cassidian, EADS, Babcock services for UK cabling and fibre optics that all had to and Paradigm. Their role is to deliver, be connected to the right place at the manage and defend the Defence Armed Forces around right time. The fact the GOSCC was Network and provide worldwide assured commissioned on time and with no communications for the MOD around the the clock impact to the provision of services is clock, 365 days a year. Many of the services delivered by DE&S’ Information Systems and Services involve multiple providers. Accurately translating the operational impact of a fault to the service providers and co- ordinating repair efforts are key enablers in ensuring faults are managed correctly. Having a common, open-floor working environment with industry partners fully embedded in the team allows all those involved in any incident to quickly come together around the table and rapidly agree how to resolve the incident or establish an acceptable workaround. Providing all-round support means the GOSCC never sleeps and is always manned by a core duty team, split equally between military staff and industry partners. The primary focus of the Duty Ops team is the support of ongoing operations on behalf of UK and coalition forces. To ensure that operational pressures and requirements on the ground in Afghanistan are understood in the Above: Atlas staff John Clark and Costanza Calabrese work alongside DE&S personnel GOSCC, a member of the team is co- in the centre located with the Joint Force Commander Below: a panoramic view of the centre showing the giant operations screen (Information Systems) (the tri-service corsham 27

Corsham unveils its global reach Pictures: Andrew Linnett

Split level: the main operations room at Corsham

in-theatre commander responsible for co-ordinating delivery of information and communication services to all UK forces in Afghanistan). Based in Camp Bastion, GOSCC Forward manages all faults in- theatre and balances the requirement for down time for maintenance and defect rectification against the needs of the troops on the ground. A daily teleconference is conducted between the team back in the UK and GOSCC Forward to ensure that requirements and priorities of the Command in Operation Herrick are fully understood. Defending the Defence Network is Above: the Corsham centre’s upper level also a 24-hour a day job and the Defence Below: Captain Mark Bentley monitors information and communication service provision from his bank of terminals Computer Incident Response Team is an integral and vital part of the Duty Ops team. With the number of threats to computer networks increasing day after day, the team constantly monitors the network for signs of attack and will take immediate action to defend it when required. This multitude of services provided by ISS makes working in this environment a challenge. Sgt Jason Musty from Duty Ops highlighted its diversity. “On an average day I will be on the phone to a Ghurkha signaller in Nepal discussing the provision of DII services,” he said. “And five minutes later I’ll be examining circuit diagrams with BT engineers investigating how we deliver video teleconferencing.” Global reach from Corsham. 28 sentinel

entinel aircraft continue to play a key DE&S-supported aircraft and role in helping Afghan security forces Sand coalition troops crack down on surveillance systems are proving vital in Taliban activity in Afghanistan. The aircraft, operating the Airborne the fight to bring stability to Afghanistan. Standoff Radar or ASTOR System, supplies identification and tracking information to Sqn Ldr Paul Lipscomb of the RAF ground commanders to identify insurgents and illegal activity. describes how they are helping in the UK ground based combat operations are expected to cease by the end of 2014. fight to capture insurgent contraband But the requirement for air support to the Afghanistan government after that is still to be decided. While Sentinel will be withdrawn from service when its work in Afghanistan is done – as laid down by the Strategic Defence and Security Review last autumn – there is plenty still to do. The Sentinels from RAF Waddington continue to provide vital intelligence to troops on the ground to enable the seizure of large quantities of insurgent contraband. During one eight- day period the aircraft enabled interception and seizure of 5,000kg of illegal narcotics, 700kg of homemade explosives, numerous AK47 automatic rifles, rocket launchers, grenades and suicide bomb vests. Airborne Mission Commander Flight Lieutenant Vicky Elliff said: “Clearly detaining insurgents means we can gather intelligence to help combat illegal smuggling of narcotics which is used to fund further acts of violence. Furthermore, it allows the Afghan Forces to demonstrate the progress being made in security and stability Below: Sentinels line up on the hard standing in the operations, dissuading criminal activity and Middle East. Sentinel recently clocked up its 300th operational sortie in Afghanistan prosecuting those caught undertaking it.” Above: Sentinel returns from another successful In the hunt for terrorists and criminals, mission Sentinel can track solitary suspicious vehicles across hundreds of kilometres of Pictures: Sgt Corrine Buxton Afghan terrain. Using its high tech radar, it can capture imagery over a huge area of territory which can be relayed in real-time to commanders on the ground. Airborne Imagery Analyst Sergeant sentinel 29

Mark Sumner said of a recent operation: “The Sentinel was able to track one vehicle and co-ordinate coalition and Afghan search teams standing by on board helicopters. Due to the need to transit over large distances and difficult terrain, the rapid air mobility offered by the helicopters allowed ground troops excellent manoeuvrability. We guided the helicopters onto a vehicle which was confirmed as suspicious and stopped.” DE&S’ Sentinel team leader Group Captain Mike Smith recalled that the Sentinel project had almost been threatened by its own success. “Having deployed on Operation Herrick as a trial in late 2008 and early 2009, customer demand for the aircraft’s product was so great that the deployment became Above: mission commander, Flt Lt Vicky Elliff, foreground, and her colleagues enduring from June 2009, well ahead spend many long hours interpreting and exploiting the information that of the planned initial and full operating Sentinel gathers up capability. “Not surprisingly this placed Below: Sentinel flight crews are no strangers to the skies above Afghanistan significant strain on a still maturing support solution and it was only through the concerted efforts of the project team, the prime contractor Raytheon Systems and HQ No2 Group staff, that Sentinel is now achieving significant success on operations. Notably, Sentinel flew its 300th operational mission last year.” Not all missions result in interceptions of suspicious vehicles or people. As with conventional policing operations, sometimes better intelligence can be made by following insurgents to reveal more of the terrorist network. In some cases the intelligence chain passes the ball from one asset to another. From Sentinel’s wide area scan a narrower field of view can subsequently be achieved via RAF Reapers, parented by RAF Waddington, but operated from Creech Air Force Base in the United States. Under a blood red sky – Sentinel helps crack down on insurgents 30 equipment sustainability The regeneration game

hipping vehicles in need of an overhaul back from Need your vehicle Afghanistan to the UK is time-consuming and Sexpensive. Vehicles can be away from the front line and critical operations for months at a time. Now, as part of Permanent Joint Headquarters (PJHQ) refreshed? Too Equipment Sustainability System (ESS) programme, vehicles can be repaired and refreshed in Camp Bastion, reducing costs and maintaining capability where it is most expensive to ship needed. And, where the work was previously being done in a hot and dusty tent, a new permanent temperature- controlled facility means staff from the Defence Support it home? Want it Group (DSG) have joined members of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers in having excellent conditions in which to work. back quickly? Nearly 40 staff from DSG started work in Camp Bastion late last year on a number of vehicles needing serious refresh. Later this year staff will increase to around 100 as Camp Bastion is more vehicle experts are added to the programme and more vehicles become eligible for regeneration. the place for you DE&S land vehicle teams are currently being urged to

Above: vehicles lie ready for the regneration programme which will see them back at work as soon as possible.

Right: the facility at Camp Bastion is one of the largest on a UK operational base equipment sustainability 31 make use of the purpose-built facility. The regeneration plan began four years ago as more and more vehicles showed the strain of working in the extreme conditions of Afghanistan. “The fleets were being worked very hard and vehicles could not survive in the long term in the harsh environment in which they had to work,” said Lt Col Phil Croager of PJHQ, the ESS Programme officer. “The question was, how could we keep the fleets as fit as possible in the long term? Our alternatives were to do the work in the UK, which is what was happening, do it in a third country, or do it in theatre. “PJHQ took it forward, with an initial business case in June 2009 for a facility for the people to work in. A contract was let for the facilities in March 2009 and completed on schedule in late 2010. Before then it had been an interim facility based in a tent in Camp Bastion working on a reduced fleet of vehicles including Warrior, Viking and Jackal. We used it as a proving ground; it proved the process could work. “Now we will be giving vehicles depth maintenance every two years which will extend their in-theatre lives. That is where cost reduction comes in. The alternative was to fly them back to the UK. Costs avoided from that will fund regeneration in theatre.” Royal Electrical The contract with DSG leading the way for three years and Mechanical is in place and the equipment is being pushed through. Engineers work Support vehicles, quadbikes, Mastiff and Ridgback are in the facility alongside civilian among vehicles only recently added to staff from the the programme. Defence Support “We are still going through a Group to turn learning process though with each vehicles back to new platform that comes to us,” said the patrol-ready Lt Col Croager. “It can take six months item to get a feel for the fleets. But we want to work as closely as we can with the project teams. And I’m sure the project teams can see the benefit too. If we can deliver the vehicles rapidly back to the front line then it reflects well on them. We can provide the teams with a full report on the state of the vehicle and what spares were consumed. They can use this information to develop their support for the future. “It is a good opportunity for teams but I need their buy-in to give me the spares, tools and technical documents. If I get these, I’ll provide the manpower.” DSG is now carrying out up- armouring, depth repair and forward logistic planning, while discussions indicate that additional work in the near future will include electronics and components for land and air platforms. The interim project costs were around £6 million while the new infrastructure cost £28 million. The contract with DSG is worth around £44 million but cost reductions are expected to realise £15 million a year beyond the contract costs. “But it’s more about keeping capability on the front line,” said Lt Col Croager. “Making sure vehicles are in theatre doing the work they are supposed to be doing and not back in the UK for months at a time.” The new facility was opened by Defence Secretary Dr Liam Fox earlier this year. “This is going to provide us with Right: a support cutting edge facilities and ultimately save us money,” he said. vehicle is handed “Excellence and savings are words we are going to back for front line use quite a lot in 2011 and this is a perfect example of work by Lt Col Phil it. Congratulations to everybody in making the project Croager, on the work so successfully, within budget and on time. That is left, in excellent order something the rest of the MOD needs to learn well from and I congratulate you on what is a great achievement.” 32 typhoon Soaraway success

It’s 100,000 hours and counting for Europe’s multi-role aircraft in service with six air forces across the globe

yphoon, the largest procurement days a week. The role of the aircraft the importance of Typhoon for Nato air programme which the UK has includes air defence and air interception. defence responsibilities.” Tbeen involved in, has now passed The UK’s contribution to the 100,000 Typhoon is Europe’s largest military the significant milestone of 100,000 flying hours was achieved through the collaborative programme which delivers flying hours across the six air forces combined efforts of the RAF at RAF unrivalled combat capability coupled who operate the leading edge multi-role Coningsby in Lincolnshire, RAF Leuchars with improved situation awareness, high combat aircraft. in Scotland, and Mount Pleasant in the survivability and the most advanced array The 100,000th hour was achieved Falkland Islands and also in a range of of integrated sensors. in collaboration with the air forces in operational deployments that tested the BAE Systems continues to work with the UK, Italy, Germany, Spain, Austria readiness, durability and reliability of Eurofighter GmbH on Typhoon export and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with Typhoon. sales globally. a combined fleet of more than 260 in- Chris Boardman, BAE Systems’ Number 6 Squadron at RAF Leuchars service Typhoons – the largest number Managing Director responsible for has represented the RAF in marking among the new generation fighters Typhoon, said: “This is a significant 100,000 in-service flying hours. available in the world today. achievement for Typhoon and the partner Leuchars became the RAF’s second In the UK, the RAF working with nations’ air forces. Such a milestone Typhoon main operating base last DE&S and BAE Systems’ support, ensure demonstrates the extensive operational September with the stand up of 6 Typhoon is available for full operational capability of the aircraft within the Squadron. Since then the squadron duty, protecting and defending the UK and in differing environments have been preparing to take up the national air space 24 hours a day, seven overseas. It also increasingly highlights Quick Reaction Alert (Interceptor) North mission – Leuchars’ primary air defence role. Wg Cdr Roddy Dennis, commander of 6 Squadron, said: “100,000 flying hours is a significant milestone for Typhoon and we at 6 Squadron are proud to have played our part in reaching it. The squadron is privileged to operate this highly capable aircraft and we are fully focused on making the best possible use of it as we continue with our preparations to take responsibility for the QRA operational task at RAF Leuchars.” typhoon 33

The largest team inside DE&S – the Fast Air Support Team (FAST) – marks its Part of the team: formation on 1 April. Tornado GR4 will be FAST will have around 550 staff and supported by DE&S’ an annual budget of more than £2 billion. new Fast Air Support It will consist of the Aircrew Escape team and Survival (AE&S), Harrier, Joint Propulsion, Tornado and Typhoon project teams. Formation of team marks the culmination of two years’ work on Project Unity, which managed the merger of the five teams and the collocation of approximately 70 staff to Abbey Wood. Typhoon Project Unity aimed to identify and exploit opportunities to improve joins business practices and increase efficiency in the newly formed FAST. Benefits include other collocation of platforms and functions at Abbey Wood, enabling a more strategic and fast jets cross-platform negotiating capability, and synergistic organisational benefits to create including the saving of more than 60 posts in the ‘golden box’ functions of finance, commercial improved and business management. Air Commodore Hugh Donohoe, formerly Head of support possible to our ongoing support to Tornado in Afghanistan, Typhoon, will be Head of FAST in-service combat managing the disposal of Harrier and with responsibility for through air fleet and we continuing to bring Typhoon into service life acquisition and support team can achieve this while developing the capabilities of this of the RAF’s current fast jet by having a single exceptional aircraft. fleets as well as the tri-service interface with “However, I am very confident that responsibilities of the AE&S our operational FAST will continue to be a success and I say element. customer. There will no doubt be many continue advisedly since some areas, such Air Cdre Donohoe said: “The main challenges with having such a large as finance, have already been operating as objective of FAST is to provide team and broad portfolio, especially with a virtual team for the past year.” the best support

Pictures: Geoff Lee www.planefocus.com

Above: Wing Commander Roddy Dennis, right, commander of 6 Squadron, receives a plaque on behalf of the RAF and its Typhoon squadrons from John Fearnley, a representative of Eurofighter GmbH, to officially commemorate 100,000 flying hours, which was achieved in January. 34 news Up periscope!

Clyde workshop gets ready for next generation of Royal Navy submarines

Upgrade work has seen the mast and periscope workshop at Clyde naval base ready to tackle the Royal Navy’s next generation of submarines. The workshop, responsible for maintenance, repair and installation of Top: HMS Astute is pictured outside submarine masts, periscopes and radio Clyde naval base. systems, underwent overhaul of its two overhead cranes. It is now capable of Right: Clyde’s mast lifting Astute class submarine mast and periscope raising equipment. shop supports Clyde will soon be responsible for the current fleet support and maintenance to every of Royal Navy submarine in the Fleet. submarines The workshop facility consists of two main workshops, a periscope tower, machine shop, 12 miscellaneous rooms and is manned by a staff of nine Babcock and seven Royal Navy personnel. The team is in charge of every aspect of maintaining submarines’ periscopes The technical work begins in the the upgrade of the workshop,” said project and masts, from getting them off the scrupulously clean workshop. “When controller Stevie Latimer. vessel in the first place, to stripping them you’re dealing with periscopes, cleanliness “All in all it was more than two weeks down to clean the lenses and repair wear is vital,” said Les. “The slightest speck of of continuous work to finish the job. The and tear from operating in one of the dust or dirt particle on the graticule lens, overhead crane can now lift an extra ton harshest environments in the world. for example, gives us a problem. in weight which will allow the workshop “It’s a challenging job,” said workshop “If a submarine commander is looking to safely lift the mast raising equipment manager Les Atack. “Periscopes are through a periscope and sees a speck in for the Astute boats.” delicate pieces of equipment and to get the top right corner, for example, how does The Astute class boats are the one out of a submarine and then transport he know if it’s dirt or an enemy aircraft? first Royal Navy submarines not to be it safely to our workshop is a job in itself. Lives could depend on us getting it right.” fitted with hull penetrating masts and “Luckily we have a dedicated team The arrival of the first Astute boat periscopes. Instead, all masts, including here and if you tally up their combined brings new technology into play. “The the two visual system masts incorporating experience it comes to many decades – Astute mast raising equipment is heavier the latest optical technology, and mast most have served onboard submarines in than the previous safe working load of the raising equipments are fitted outside the the past and some still do.” overhead cranes and that is why we’ve had submarine pressure hull.

Building work for Clyde’s new modern, fit for purpose facility firearms training centre is under way. that will enable firearms training Once finished – work is expected to be delivered in an appropriate Work to take a year – the £3.9 million environment.” facility will be used by Royal Marines, Work will be carried out by Henry starts to sailors and MOD policemen to hone Brothers through the prime contract their marksmanship skills. with Turner Estates Solutions and the sharpen Assistant Head of Projects for £3.9 million build is expected to finish the base, David Thorpe, said: “I am early next year. pleased to have secured approval for Work on a new incident command up Clyde this extremely important project, with and control centre began last year the help of a large number of people through the same contracting shooting across the base. I would single out arrangement. Elaine Hamilton, my requirements There are around 30 projects skills manager, and the Defence Estates planned to make Clyde the submarine project manager, Dave Carlisle, for centre of specialisation, with the total Aim high: personnel in firearms their hard work. value of the work being around £380 training at Clyde “The end product will be a million. news 35

DE&S sites up their game to meet conservation target

DE&S sites are playing an important Significant progress in the last few disturbed. role in helping the MOD meet a key years is the result of work undertaken Kevin Cooper JSCS Gosport’s Government target for conservation. by estates and facilities managers in Environment Manager said: “In The latest figures for the start of partnership with Defence Estates, addition to a vital defence role, the site 2011 show that nearly all of DE&S’ Natural England and contractors. also provides a unique habitat for rare sites of special scientific interest SSSI( ) Within DE&S, JSCS Gosport is and endangered wildlife. in England are now in ‘favourable’ or among the sites that have improved “A lot of effort has been put in to ‘unfavourable recovering’ condition. over the last 12 months. The site is an reach our SSSI target and we will have This is in line with an ongoing essential munitions complex stretching to work hard to maintain it.” commitment that 95 per cent of all MOD across nearly 500 acres and is also the There are a dozen SSSIs in the DE&S SSSI sites should be in target condition. perfect home for a variety of wildlife. estate and other notable successes SSSIs are nationally important Techniques are being used to include improvements at the Defence wildlife areas that have been established boost biodiversity including leaving Fuels Group West Moors site in Dorset. around the country and maintaining space during maintenance for nesting DE&S sites in Scotland have also the quality of these habitats is a skylarks and making sure rare plants reached the 95 per cent SSSI target for requirement under law. such as early purple orchids are not the first time this year.

Trainees celebrate development Artillery

Thirteen trainees are celebrating after graduating from the team keeps Trainee Accountant Development Scheme. The DE&S trainees have spent the past eye on the two years working towards completing the CIMA managerial level qualification. They participated in front line two 12-month placements and undertook a variety of learning and development activities. JFI is used by forward air ball The scheme covered controllers and artillery forward subjects, from learning observation officers for gather DE&S basic finance to the targeting information wider MOD business. David Noble, Director Finance, who sponsors the scheme, presented DE&S’ Artillery Systems the introduction of monthly open level of communication the trainees with their team has overhauled working programme manager reviews, we’ve not previously certificates. behaviours to provide a better and tools and template training. experienced. They have now passed service to the front line. All of these improvements “Although PPM does not a C2 competence-based interview along with With an ethos of ‘keep it have been put in place on deliver traditional outputs, like a presenting a portfolio simple’, the team has been Artillery Systems projects piece of equipment, the delivery covering the core and reviewing its Programme and like Joint Fires Integrator – of a change of behaviours is a functional evidence they Project Management (PPM) Firestorm – which was procured proud achievement for the team. have accumulated. processes, focusing on tools, as an urgent operational “It’s enabled a more This graduate techniques and behaviours, requirement and is deployed in consistent working culture programme is to make sure it can deliver Afghanistan. where everyone understands part of continuing professionalism of the its outputs as effectively as But perhaps the key benefit the expectations and transfers finance function in DE&S. possible. from the review of processes skills to one another to maintain All the trainees have Supported by BMT Hi-Q is the reminder that such the momentum of continuing been placed as Band C2s Sigma and using Office of improvements ultimately mean improvement.” within finance. Government Commerce a better service to the front line. Mike Horrell, the team’s Successful graduates methodology, and tools and Ed Plaster, project manager deputy leader, added: “Ensuring are: Richard Shea, Ruth techniques aligned with the for the improvements, said: every member of the team is part Lynes, Lucia Hogwood, Megan Thompson, Lesley Association of Project Managers “Within an environment of of the change and continually Haig, Robert Grounds, and the Acquisition Operating increasing constraints, it’s reinforcing the benefits has Joanna Hulley, Alison Framework, the project team essential to ensure teams are been instrumental in its success. Negus, David Fox, Michael came up with a series of focused in delivering priorities “The change initiative is Wharrie, Simon Webster, improved processes. in the correct order. already producing tangible Thomas Vincett, Matthew They included the start of “We’ve learnt many lessons improvements across the team Plant. weekly project manager reviews, as we enter a new era of working and it’s a potential blueprint for a new dynamic reporting pack, and we’ve found a calmness and other teams across DE&S.” 36 people news

DE&S trio puts A race in the country orienteering skills to the test It was best foot forward as personnel from Clyde naval base joined a large field at nearby Helensburgh for the Captain Mark Bentley of DES On paper this team looked Scottish Services Cross- at Corsham led home the field in extremely strong, and so it proved Country League. the Royal Signals Orienteering on the day. The speed of decision The run was started Championships at Washers Pit, making, dividing up the controls, by Commodore Mike Shaftsbury, last month. saw them out in the fast Thorney Wareham, Clyde’s Flt Lt Geoff Ellis, also from DES Island terrain minutes before their Commander, accompanied Corsham, attended the event for rivals. by VIP visitor Captain Ian Stidston, Director of Naval training and emerged the fastest of All three team members finished Physical Development and all comers. within seconds of each other to head of the Navy’s Physical He is hoping to lead the emerge comfortable winners. Training Branch. Combined Services team to success Over the two days there was Runners from the RAF against the British Universities. some extremely varied terrain that took the overall title. Mark puts the success of the tested a variety of orienteering Corsham orienteers down to the skills. ability to train together and learn from each other’s strengths. Officials have been visiting some DE&S sites promoting the Civil The team event took place Fund set Service Benevolent Fund to mark the fund’s 125th anniversary. at Thorney Island. As there are And they have launched a microsite with information on the fund insufficient Royal Signals orienteers to mark along with a film which shows the value and importance of the fund’s at DES Corsham, Mark called up volunteers. 125 years The microsite is at http://www.csbf.org.uk/125_year while the film support from Geoff and Lt Col Chris can be viewed at http://www.csbf.org.uk/volunteer/making_lives_better Sanderson, also of DES.

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Reporting of Project skills keep Alun accidents and incidents ahead of the game DE&S’ incident notification Cell (DINC) has now collocated to Abbey Wood. All staff must report The MOD’s top graduate – non-equipment accidents/ Alun Miles of Abbey Wood incidents, near misses, – has enhanced his project notifiable diseases and management knowledge dangerous occurrences to the with attendance at a leading cell or via the local notification conference for project route. Accident/incident details managers. can be e-mailed to DES SE Alun, electrical systems CESO-OHSE-DINC-OFFICE, manager on the Type 45 faxed to 9352 32901 (0117 destroyers programme, 9132901) or phoned to the was graduate of 2010 on the smart number 9679 82954 MOD’s project management (03067982954). development programme In the event of an incident involving a DE&S site, (PMDP). personnel or equipment, which The programme is has potential for enforcement designed to improve project action the relevant director management skills and attain under whose line manager professional qualifications. it falls and DINC are to be The aim is to train, educate notified without delay. and develop people to improve Where such an incident results in a fatality the delivery of projects throughout notification must be immediate the MOD linked directly to the and include the head of safety PPM Licensing Programme. and environmental protection. “After being accepted on Further information on the scheme I found the courses the DE&S DINC webpage and the PMDP organised very Top graduate Alun Miles, right, is pictured with Vic Jenkins from Jane Laver (DES SE SEP- informative and educational, DINC-Man). and meeting and talking this knowledge for the benefit with other members most of the MOD.” beneficial,” said Alun. Vic Jenkins, PPM head of “One of the biggest benefits profession, said he believed of being part of the PMDP is in the importance of project the ‘networking’ with other management to the MOD. members. The sharing of “I see the value that well- experiences and knowledge managed projects deliver to was a key factor in me passing defence and the contribution the APM exam and achieving that well-trained, experienced Home of the a level one licence. Being a and enthusiastic project member of the PMDP has managers can make to BATTLEFIELD MISSION enhanced my professional military operations and the development. effectiveness and efficiency of “Attendance at the the department as a whole,” he Millbrook is an conference and awards was said. independent world-leading a very useful experience. Not “I wholeheartedly support organisation specialising in the only did I manage to listen the PMDP and the members to some very experienced who make it successful. Alun development, and knowledgeable project is one and I am really pleased enhancement and research managers but I also got to that he found the conference of military vehicles, as well as being learn of their experiences on and awards ceremony to home to the MoD how they successfully manage be another source of useful Battlefield Mission projects. I am hoping to use information and inspiration.”

For further information: Team raffle aids hospital youngsters contact Bruce Lornie on +44 (0)1525 408476 The children’s ward at Bath’s Royal United Hospital has [email protected] benefited to the tune of £100 after a charity raffle and quiz by www.millbrook.co.uk/military DE&S Safety and Environmental Protection staff. Twenty-three prizes were donated by staff for the raffle with the money going to buy board games, building bricks and soft toys for the children to help them learn to play and work together. It is hoped that the team will continue to raise money for the next Christmas charity with a number of events being organised throughout the year along with another raffle and quiz. 38 people news

For most of the year he’s head Howard’s of safety and engineering at way DE&S. Then he turns his hand to transforming the lives of some of India’s poorest children, children who are reaping the Report: benefits of . . . Pauline Boardman

The lives of some of India’s poorest “We passionately believe that In previous years, Howard and his children are being transformed by the education is key to breaking the cycle fellow trustees have installed solar work of one of DE&S’ Directors. of poverty so, as well as the homes, we heating to preheat water for cooking rice, Howard Mathers, Director Safety fund a school which takes children from bought buffalo which produce very rich and Engineering, is Treasurer of the ages seven to 18. And we support those milk and updated computer capability. Children’s Homes in India Trust (CHIT), capable of pursuing further or higher All this is achieved in the spare time which raises money to run two children’s education.” of the six trustees who make up CHIT. homes in Andhra Pradesh, southern Four years ago, Howard and the other The charity has no presence in India, India. CHIT trustees embarked on a scheme to other than the staff of the homes and convert the school’s teaching from the the school, who are employed by a local local Telegu language to English. charity. Providing solar panels for India “It’s a major transformation, and it CHIT needs to raise around £90,000 a while, bottom, Howard with will take time, but it will give the children year to cover costs, 95 per cent of which school staff and trustees much greater opportunities,” Howard goes directly to India. The trustees fund said. “For those who are already learning all expenses for the trips they take. English, it seems to be giving them much “We work with people who have, more confidence.” in effect, fallen out of the system. They CHIT has made other major have no opportunities, and are leading differences over the past year to the lives rather grim lives. Then, through CHIT’s of the children and their families. work, you see them grow to be happy and During their recent trip the trustees positive. spent £500 on multivitamins for the “I see for myself how some of the children. Food prices in India have been children develop. One lad started with soaring, with the price of vegetables us and is now in his third year of a rocketing 10-15 per cent in the last few pharmacy degree, other people are Howard is just back from his annual months because of crop failures. Cost doing Masters degrees in subjects like visit to the homes, where he and other increases mean balanced diets are economics, and there are a number of CHIT trustees spent time with the increasingly difficult to girls training to be nurses. It’s incredibly children, met staff and assessed the manage. energising.” progress of specific projects. For more information about CHIT, visit The homes provide a www.chitonline.co.uk haven for 250 children, of whom about 40 are orphans, the others mainly from struggling single-parent families. “All are extremely poor and would face a life as illiterate, probably itinerant, farmworkers or labourers,” Howard said. “Or they may just end up begging. people news 39

Youngsters are ‘Ultra fit’ Dave heads for invited to world Dead Sea of Watchkeeper Marathon Special needs youngsters and their teachers from Aberporth have been given a guided tour of Parc Aberporth, the new centre of excellence for Unmanned Air Vehicles at West Wales Airport. The youngsters were shown around the site by Geoff Price from DE&S’ Unmanned Air Systems team and Ian Walker and Andy Coburn from Thales UK. Watchkeeper flight trials are being carried out at Parc Aberporth, which was developed by QinetiQ in conjunction with the airport. The visitors watched videos of Watchkeeper in flight, were shown around a Watchkeeper on the ground, saw its ground control station and also visited a helicopter. This was followed by a short drive along the runway in a spare Pinzgauer 6x6.

Gosport-based Dave Newcomb will be putting his best foot forward for charity next month in a bid to raise cash for Help for Heroes. Dave, 39, of the Joint Support Chain, has been running marathons for 15 years but has now put himself forward for the 50km Dead Sea ultra marathon in Amman, Jordan, on 8 April. “I have taken part in a number of races in the past, notably the London Marathon and the Snowdonia Marathon. The Dead Sea Marathon will be my first ‘ultra’ event,” he said. “Help for Heroes is a charity that I am very passionate Keeping watch: about helping.” visitors with Dave is trying to raise at least £2,000 and colleagues Watchkeeper and can make donations at https://www.bmycharity.com/ support vehicle davenewcomb DINs - released this month Defence Instructions and Notice (DINs) are defence-wide instructions, guidance and notices for military and civilian staff, containing up-to-the-minute information to help people carry out their duties. Some of the latest issued on Defence Equipment and Support are:

2011DIN04-015: DE&S is responsible for all tri-service ocean and coastal towing (‘blue water’ towing) and transportation of ships using semi-submersible vessels and barges. This DIN offers guidance for those involved in towage or heavy lift transport of ships and submarines.

2011DIN04-014: This provides information on distribution and fielding plan for the C-IED Sub Unit Training Packs to support individual all-arms C-IED training. It provides outline dates of the delivery of the programmes.

2011DIN04-010: Light Weapons, Photographic and Batteries team are cleansing equipment ranges and legacy engineer equipment is being retrospectively declared out of service, allowing disposal of stock.

2011DIN04-009: This DIN introduces into service a sample cylinder for testing breathing air against the required MOD specification used by adventurous training divers. To facilitate a common sampling system and process available to all adventurous training cenres Defence Fuels Group is introducing a sample cylinder available via the group’s managed gas supply contract.

Further information and more details on the latest DINs see: http://defenceintranet.diiweb.r.mil.uk/DefenceIntranet/Library/CivilianAndJointService/AtoZ/DinsIndex2011.htm 40 people news

Staff set to Charity cash comes shape the rolling in – thanks to DE&S way generosity of Beith forward

DE&S staff have been Workers at Defence Munitions Beith updated on the change have raised cash for a charity caring for agenda the organisation former service personnel. faces following SDSR and Stephen Neil, Head of Establishment offered the chance to feed at Beith presented £750 to Linda O’Malley ideas into the process. of Erskine on behalf of the workforce The Business who raised the cash from hot dog sales, Development Team held sponsored runs and raffles. an open forum on 28 Erskine, founded in 1916 with one January at Abbey Wood. hospital, now has five residential care The event began with homes and four supported employment a presentation by Rachel workshops in Scotland. Baguley, Head of the Pictured: Stephen Neil, head of Beith, Business Development presenting the cheque to Linda O’Malley team. of Erskine Key factors affecting DE&S were highlighted, including the outcome of the SDSR and how the organisation would feed into this, Lord Levene’s Clyde workers take look Defence Reform review and the arrival of Bernard Gray. Mr Gray’s key messages were set out at further education including his belief that his report on defence WORKERS at Clyde naval procurement was a base were introduced to the starting point. The first major point world of further education CDM wants DE&S staff to when members of the Open think about is what the University paid a visit. organisation is for and While at the site university what value it adds. staff held two presentations – Mr Gray is keen staff a morning one aimed at those are involved in the change with engineering experience process and present their views through and an afternoon one focused the Change Exchange on the OU’s Business School. e-mail on the Business Both presentations were Development website, fully attended with the upcoming Operating afternoon session gathering Centre consultation particular interest as it was exercises, by making the first time the Business a GEMS suggestion or attending future business School had visited the base. development focus “The great thing about groups. studying for a degree with Following the the Open University is that presentation staff were you do not need any formal invited to share their educational qualifications thoughts. Topics included to apply,” said Lieutenant whether the changes Commander Ewan Wharrie of DE&S makes will the base’s education centre. represent value for “They have some fantastic money and how this degree courses, but it’s not will be quantified, the just degrees, they have a need to identify what wide range of certificates and the organisation does well and what could be diplomas too – around 600 improved, and how any modules. Course fishing: Open University’s Bruce Heil introduces Leading Rate future reduction in posts “The OU Business School is Danni Crossley to some of the courses available will be managed and offering a Master of Business communicated to staff. Administration course and in passers by on their way to studying while in employment The need to retain there are also modules in lunch. and service personnel can use skills and the ability everything from accounting “The Open University is enhanced learning credits to train staff was also discussed as well as and finance, to management, really the perfect choice for towards their course. the importance of leadership and technology a lot of our workers here at “The day has been a great internal and external management.” Clyde,” continued Lieutenant success and I am sure we will communication. During the day the Open Commander Wharrie. see many base workers take The next open forum University also set up a stall in “Around 70 per cent of up the learning challenge as a is on 24 March. the base’s retail mall, pulling existing OU students are result.” people news 41

Company fundraising will help Forces’ families

Defence Equipment, Support Help), their 2010 corporate charity and Technology Minister Peter Luff at a SSAFA Corporate Friends event was on hand to accept cash from held in Central London. the LSC Group following a year of Fundraising included 30 of the fundraising. senior management team walking LSC Group, a wholly owned up Mount Snowdon, raising more subsidiary of Babcock, presented than £4,000. a cheque to former Chief of George Webb, Managing Defence Materiel General Sir Director of LSC is pictured on the Kevin O’Donoghue, Chairman of far right presenting the charity the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and money to General Sir Kevin and Mr Families Association (SSAFA Forces Luff.

Dstl announces Runners set a hot pace DE&S dates The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) will host roadshows throughout 2011 in Neighbourhood 2 at Abbey Wood. Tackling different capability themes, Dstl will demonstrate how its advice and research can Runners be used across defence in the fifth equipment, support and wider MOD. Sangcom half Wed 16 March: Maritime marathon Wed 4 May: Air put their Wed 15 June: Counter best feet Terrorism forward Wed 27 July: Land Wed 14 Sept: Weapons Wed 26 Oct: ISTAR

More information from Claire Burt at DE&S, or visit Dstl on the RLI – http://collab. dstl.r.mil.uk (MOD staff only)

More than 100 competitors took part in the fifth annual Sangcom (Saudi Arabia National Guard Communications) half marathon raising Hull specialists earn reward cash for charity. As in previous years, the six-lap event on the flat and fast course raised money for the The hull survey unit in Maritime commendation from Vice Admiral Saudi Disabled Children’s Society and the Help Capability, Trials Assessment in Andrew Mathews, Chief of Materiel for Heroes. Portsmouth has been rewarded for its (Fleet) at DE&S, for its consistently high contribution to warship safety. standard of work throughout the past This year’s event has pledged £8,000 for the The team has received a 12 months. charities. Despite being The race, which saw temperatures rise to a lean on manpower warm 19 degrees Centigrade during the run, the unit met all was started by Ambassador Sir Tom Philips its targets and and the 2.6 mile fun run was won by nine- also carried out year old Jack Miller in 17 minutes and three significant work in its fire safety seconds. assessment role. Hot on his heels was the fastest girl in the Receiving the race Phoebe Lloyd-Evans who finished in 17 award from Vice- minutes and 23 seconds. Admiral Mathews The half marathon was won by Stephen are: Chief Petty Tomlinson in one hour, 28 minutes. The fastest Officer Brian Lloyd, female competitor was Wendy Hazlewood who CPO John Preece, Lieutenant Stephen finished in a time of one hour, 53 minutes. Ryan, CPO Tom Money was raised through direct Peters and PO Tony sponsorship, donations of prizes for a raffle, Stevens. and entry fees. 42 people news

Typhoon team puts seal of approval on club lounge An RAF charity has seen a branch at Thornton Cleveleys. members during World War Two refurbished lounge at one of its Wg Cdr Dove said: “It is through to aiding serving and clubs re-opened by a member of a privilege to be invited as ex members in the Fylde region DE&S’ Typhoon team. honorary guest to undertake the today.” Wing Commander Emma official reopening of this RAFA Left: Wg Cdr Dove presents Dove of Typhoon’s Support branch. a framed print of an RAF Strategy team at Abbey Wood “Thornton Cleveleys has a Coningsby based Typhoon and a opened the lounge at the Royal longstanding association with Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Air Forces Association (RAFA) the RAF, from assisting serving Spitfire, to RAFA. Industry moves closer to MOD in Shrivenham course tie-up

Industry has been getting closer to the military by sending delegates on the latest Stars put on a command course. More than 20 delegates from 12 companies took champion show part in the Defence Policy and Strategic Programming KEEN Badminton players from Clyde naval module at the Defence base gathered at the base’s Sportsdrome for the Royal Navy Scotland Badminton Academy, Shrivenham. Open. Students gained valuable The event, which is a stepping stone to insight into the structure and the major Royal Navy and Royal Marines workings of the MOD and tournament, saw 13 competitors head to opportunities to network the courts to see who would be crowned with UK and foreign military champions. students, many of whom will In the female singles event Able Rates Lorissa Seville, Tasha Millington, go on to work in key positions Gail Maclachlan and Becky Cahill faced in capability, equipment, one another for the championship, with support and requirement Lorissa and Gail making it through to the areas of defence. final with Lorissa coming out on top 21-14. Gui Johnston from BAE In the male singles event Commander Systems said: “Taking part Paul Blyth went head to head with Leading in the Advanced Command Physical Trainer Mike Fleming. The Commander was victorious, beating his and Staff Course has been a opponent 21-12. fantastic opportunity and an enjoyable three weeks. “Learning about current and future defence challenges been an excellent opportunity valuable few weeks, with Permanent Under Secretary alongside MOD decision to help create a better benefits that will undoubtedly at the MOD, Mrs Ursula makers of the future presents understanding between reap rich rewards personally Brennan. a unique opportunity to industry and the MOD. and for both industry and Companies represented understand the pressures that “The quality of visiting MOD, for years to come” included BAE Systems, each are faced with and to speakers has been outstanding Guest speakers on the Northrop Grumman, explore how we can support and the level of discussion course included Tom McKane, Raytheon, Rolls Royce, each other better in the and debate stimulating Director General Strategy Chemring, AgustaWestland, future.” throughout.” at the MOD; Deputy Chief of Fujitsu, Marshall Aerospace, Ken Beedle from Northrop Roger Foster from Defence Staff (Capability), Vice QinetiQ, Selex Comms, Ultra Grumman added: “It has Raytheon said: “A highly Admiral Paul Lambert; and Electronics, and Thales UK.

SAILORS and staff from Clyde naval Neptune skiers blaze an Alpine trail base flocked to the French Alps for the Royal Navy Winter Sports Association The four sailors missed out in the the snowboarding events, with CPO Alpine Championships. overall team honours after failing to Physical Trainer Scotty Mather earning HMS Neptune – the shore complete the slalom, but did manage second place in the intermediate establishment at Clyde – was to earn golds in the major unit grand snowboard parallel grand slalom. represented at Espace Killy by skiers slalom and major unit Super ‘G’ blue Perhaps the biggest achievement, Commander Nigel Canty, Warrant riband event. Commander Canty also however, was by Able Rate Patrick May, Officer 1 Gary Nicolson, Warrant managed second place in the individual who, in his first championships came Officer 1 George Chapman and Chief ski masters overall competition. overall third in the snowboard slope Petty Officer Paul Crichton. The base was also represented in style category. people news 43

New harbour master takes control

The new Queen’s Harbour Master has “It is a large operation – I have control arrived at Semaphore Tower to take over of 55 square miles of water including a large keeping Portsmouth harbour safe and part of the Solent with over 150,000 planned secure. movements in and around Portsmouth every Commander Nigel Hare has succeeded year, and that’s just counting the military Commander Stephen Hopper to oversee one and commercial ships and not including the of the busiest ports in the country. considerable and important recreational A navigator, Cdr Hare has served traffic that we look after.” on global operations, commanded the Cdr Hare, who lives in north Hampshire minehunter HMS Cromer and was seconded with wife Sandra and their two children, was to the Spanish Navy – which he cites as one born in Lewes and joined the Royal Navy in of his most enjoyable experiences. 1980. “I have wanted to be QHM for a number In his spare time Cdr Hare is a keen of years now,” he said. “It is one of the best 5-a-side football player and plays lead guitar jobs in the Royal Navy – it is a very hands on in a band – Anti Flash – which comprises job that comes with a lot of responsibility in civilian and military players. ensuring that the day-to-day running of the port goes smoothly and safely. Right: Cdr Nigel Hare

Timeline of a Faslane pays tribute to disaster

IN 1917 the Royal Navy submarine service was in its infancy and K13 tragic sub’s crew was at the height of underwater technology. The fastest submarine of its day, K13 was constructed by Clydeside builders, Fairfields, to answer the German wartime U-Boat threat. However, disaster struck when the vessel took on water as she dived in the Gareloch, flooding her boiler room and plunging her to the Below: K13 after bottom. being salvaged Although 32 people died, and refitted as another 48 found themselves K22 trapped with no way out. Captain of K13, Lieutenant Commander Godfrey Herbert, came up with a risky plan. A volunteer would climb into the conning tower, flood it, and open the hatch. A bubble of compressed air would rise to the surface and with it the brave volunteer who, once Above: participants reflect at the memorial service. In the picked up, would pass on foreground is Captain Philip Buckley, Captain Faslane Flotilla, vital information to aid and Commander Ian Riches, Base Executive Officer the rescue effort. That volunteer was Commander Francis SAILORS, ex-submariners and sea cadets Naval Base Clyde representatives Captain Goodhart, captain of met at Faslane Cemetery on Sunday, 30 Philip Buckley from Faslane Flotilla and Base sister submarine K14, onboard to January to mark the 94th anniversary of the Executive Officer Commander Ian Riches. witness the sea trials. Lieutenant Commander Herbert accompanied K13 submarine disaster. “It was a very poignant occasion and one Goodhart to the conning tower Gathering at the memorial obelisk, the which drew a tremendous turn out to pay where he would release the vessel’s participants took a moment to remember the their respects,” said Cdr Riches. high pressure air. 32 people who perished when the submarine The memorial began at Clyde naval base Commander Goodhart was K13 sank in the waters of the Gareloch on with a church service led by Father Andrew propelled through the hatch but, January 29 1917. McFadden, Faslane Flotilla’s Chaplain. such was the force, Lieutenant Around 60 people attended the memorial, This was followed by a wreath laying Commander Herbert lost his grip and was swept upwards. He reached including members of the Submariners while sea cadets of TS Neptune rang a ship’s the surface alive but Commander Association, led by the national president bell 32 times, once for each life lost. Goodhart was found drowned after Admiral Sir James Perowne, many of Commander Riches added: “The K13 being knocked unconscious on the whom had travelled from Northern Ireland, disaster may be over 90 years in the past, submarine’s superstructure. Manchester, Barrow, Aberdeen and Lincoln but there is a strong sense of brotherhood Rescue divers attached oxygen to be at the event. and community in the submarine service, to the vessel and a cable was passed Also there to pay their respects were one which keeps us coming back here to beneath K13’s hull, raising her up enough to cut a hole in the bow and members of the British Legion and HM remember the events of January 1917.” rescue the survivors.