RSME

MATTERSNEWS FROM THE ROYAL SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING GROUP 20 MAY 2020 4 5 7

WELCOME COMMAND TRAINING FACILITY I recently took the opportunity to produce a A convoy of vehicles is approaching its final welcome video to be shown to new members destination and the radio traffic is mounting of the RSME Group. In the video I described the as the commanders manoeuvre into position, Group as ‘amazing’... Read more on page 5 providing cover for... Read more on page 7

INTRODUCTION Welcome to the twentieth edition of RSME Matters, my 10 13 first as Managing Director, Holdfast. Issue 19 showed the

tremendous progress that has WORLDSKILLS been made since the signing of November 2019, the National Exhibition Centre the Public Private Partnership... (NEC) Birmingham. A sold-out event. Rock pumping out across the exhibition halls, all of Read more on page 4 which are filled with...Read more on page 10

ARMY MUSIC IS CHANGING The Corps of Army Music 21 24 (CAMUS) was established in 1994 under the Options for Change . Within CAMUS sit today’s 15 Army EXCHANGE OFFICERS ELECTRIC VEHICLES JOIN There is a long history of embedded overseas THE HOLDFAST FLEET Bands, providing support to personnel within the RSME Group and this year Tackling the carbon footprint of organisations great public occasions such... is no exception. 9,545 miles separated the two and the emissions of greenhouse gases is at the Read more on page 13 exchange officers at...Read more on page 21 forefront of the UK’s... Read more on page 24

We’re always looking for new parts of the RSME Group to explore and share Front cover: DCBRNC – see story on page 26. within RSME Matters. If you’d like us to tell your story then just let us know. Photography: All images except where stated by Ian Clowes | goldy.uk Design and production: Plain Design | plaindesign.co.uk

Nicki Lockhart, Editor, [email protected] Printed on FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council) certified paper, which supports the growth of responsible forest management worldwide. Ian Clowes, Writer and Photographer, 07930 982 661 | [email protected]

2 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 Contents 26 29

DCBRNC ANEMOI In a quiet village, not far from Salisbury, sits Project ANEMOI is a £14m Design and Build contract being delivered by the home of the Defence Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Centre (DCBRNC). Last the Corps of on behalf of the Defence Infrastructure... year, the Centre... Read more on page 26 Read more on page 29 32 34 36

HQ REFURBISHMENT DATR: TRAINING MILITARY WORKING DOGS DATR: REHOMING RETIRING In the past year, anyone visiting Brompton The Defence Animal Training (DATR), MILITARY WORKING DOGS Barracks will have noticed that Headquaters based in Melton Mowbray, is responsible for the At any one time, there are around 850 military RSME Group has been shrouded behind a mass acquisition and training of all military animals. working dogs across Defence. These animals of scaffolding and... Read more on page 32 Since the end of the... Read more on page 34 carry out a range... Read more on page 36 38 43

COURSE REDESIGN AND DEGREE UPGRADE PROJECT HOBART: The Clerk of Works (Clk Wks) and Military Plant Foreman (MPF) are at THE FUTURE OF URBAN TRAINING With nearly half of the world’s population living the very centre of the Corps of Royal Engineer’s ability to deliver... in urban areas, and conflicts continuing to ignite, Read more on page 38 it is inevitable... Read more on page 43

COVID-19 All content was produced before Covid-19 measures were introduced.

3 Introduction Welcome to the twentieth edition of RSME at Gibraltar Barracks as they take full in WorldSkills UK events throughout Matters, my first as Managing Director, advantage of this superb Royal Engineer- the year. This included working with Holdfast. Issue 19 showed the tremendous focused simulator suite as they prepare members of the Corps Engagement Team, progress that has been made since the for their new Strike role. Also at Gibraltar who organised a regional heat of the signing of the Public Private Partnership Barracks we learn about the brand-new competition at Brompton Barracks, as well (PPP). I am very pleased to see that the Urban Training Facility that was developed as providing support to the three Sappers Commandant, in his introductory words, to meet the increasing focus on urban that made the UK finals at the National recognises the strength and importance warfare and the need to train our Royal Exhibition Centre in November last year. of the partnership and the need for Engineers to both work and fight in people across the RSME Group to work this very challenging environment. We take a close look at the redesign of the together as one team, whatever their Clerk of Works and Military Plant Foreman role. For me, effective collaboration has The updating of the infrastructure across courses completed by Professional been a central feature of the PPP since the RSME PPP sites continues apace Engineering Wing team. Not only were the very beginning and is something and one of the latest projects at these courses transformed, but through that I will ensure remains centre stage. Brompton Barracks is the refurbishment hard work and support from the University of the Grade 2 listed HQ RSME building. of Greenwich the final qualification that In this issue we take our first visit to the Assistant Project Manager Ben Gravett can be achieved has been upgraded from Defence Chemical, Biological, Radiological explains some of the challenges a Foundation to a full Honours Degree. and Nuclear Centre (DCBRNC), based the project team encountered while in Winterbourne Gunner that became bringing such an historical building At their newly renamed Remount Barracks part of the RSME Group in April 2019. up to modern office standards. in Melton Mowbray, the Defence Animal We also focus on the work of the Corps Training Centre (DATR) provide an update of Army Music (CAMUS) and the Royal Of course, training continues to be at the on the canine training team and we learn Military School of Music (RMSM) learning top of our agenda. Recently trainers from how they train military detection and more about the new structure of Army MKCTS visited the Falkland Islands to protection dogs. We also get an insight music and the move from Kneller Hall, meet the Royal Engineer tradesmen and into the care and attention given to those that will be completed next year. women involved in Project ANEMOI. animals retiring from the DATR at the end of a busy and often demanding career. We join members of 21 Engineer Regiment MKCTS was also at the centre of the at the Command Training Facility (CTF) Corps of Royal Engineer’s participation Jeremy Wilman

JEREMY WILMAN, MANAGING DIRECTOR HOLDFAST TRAINING SERVICES LTD MA MSC BENG (HONS) PSC(J) MINSTRE

Royal Military Academy Sandhurst Directing Staff, Defence Academy

RE Offr, and Chief of Plans, (planning rebasing under 2010 Strategic Defence BEng (Hons), Civil Engineering, Royal and Security Review), Support Military of Science, Shrivenham HQ, Rheindahlen, Germany Capt, Germany Military Assistant, 3-star senior officer, Iraq Capt, RSME (education and Military Assistant, Director training of officers) General Defence Academy ACSC 1, Joint Services OC Armd Engr Sqn, Germany Command and Staff College CO TA Regt, North of England MSc, Military Technology, Shrivenham CMTL and COS RSME MA, Military Studies, Bracknell Training and Services Director Holdfast Operational Requirements, MoD (simulation procurements) Managing Director Holdfast

4 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 Welcome I recently took the opportunity to so well together, make a difference to be achieved by us continuing to work produce a welcome video to be shown the lives of our trainees on a daily basis. together, understanding each other’s to new members of the RSME Group. People from very diverse backgrounds, strengths, weaknesses and styles, In the video I described the Group as people with impressive skills and hard- exploring and deploying innovative ‘amazing’. I’d like to explain why. won experience. Passionate people who approaches and solutions while keeping care and are committed to the work that the trainee at the heart of everything that I took up the role of Commandant on we do. People who both respect and we do. We must empower our trainers the 19th of September last year, already inspire those around them. It is people and support staff accordingly. very aware of the excellent reputation that make the RSME Group so amazing. that the Group has across Defence. The excellence of training delivered, The RSME Group is a complex innovation in course design, proactive organisation. The time I have spent VISION infrastructure development and support learning about the organisation, and the Trainee-focused, and a partnering model within the Public conversations and discussions that have Private Partnership are second-to-none. taken place have helped formulate the technology-enabled vision for the Group. It is actually very learning, fit for While reputation is an important indicator simple but provides a clear focus. Our of success, the most important factor I vision will see us deliver trainee-focused, Defence’s challenges observed during my visits was the people. technology-enabled learning fit for and opportunities, The trainers and support staff. The Defence’s challenges and opportunities, fantastic team of people who, working today and tomorrow. This vision can only today and tomorrow

5 Alongside the impressive reputation The ongoing drive to improve mental lies significant responsibility. Each year health and wellbeing is equally important. we run 260 types of course for nearly I support and applaud the initiatives 10,000 people and 200 military working around the Group. The growing number animals. We are shaping the soldiers, of Mental Health First Aiders and specific engineers and musicians of the future, campaigns, workshops and health fairs for demanding operational roles. We are signs that we recognise that mental must not only educate but inspire a health is as important as physical safety passion for learning and a will to win for all who are associated with the Group. that are lifelong. This is both a challenge and a privilege which all of us must And so to the future. The demands recognise and meet with energy and of Defence are ever changing, but we BRIGADIER PETER J ROWELL MBE, enthusiasm. I recognise too that the are an organisation that is agile, able COMMANDANT RSME GROUP breadth of training includes the more to swiftly respond to new challenges senior courses where we are delivering and developments. One of our most Soldier Training, ATR Winchester highly complex technical topics, recent developments, the Urban Training Potential Officer equipping current and future leaders Facility at Gibraltar Barracks, is a perfect Development Course with the tools they need to succeed example of how the RSME Group is within the modern conflict arenas. proactively investing in facilities and training Royal Military Academy Sandhurst capability that will equip our trainees with RE Tp Comd, But we must also deliver everything the skills and experience to effectively that we do in the context of respect. operate in new combat environments. Command, Power Troop, Respect for each other, respect between Germany, HQ Allied Command trainer and trainee and the respect We must continue to innovate, to inspire, Rapid Reaction Corps, between the military and civilian team and to respect each other. We are all first deployment Kosovo members. We are one team and mutual responsible for positively impacting the Battle Group Engineer, UK and respect is at the core of our success. lives of our trainees as they travel onwards Canada, second tour Kosovo to their often uncertain but inevitably I am passionate about safety. I believe demanding future operational roles. Operations Officer, 21 in an open approach to safety, where Engineer Regt, Germany anyone can challenge practices that they I am delighted that Jeremy Wilman Adjutant, 21 Engineer see as potentially unsafe. The ‘Don’t is the Managing Director of Holdfast. Regt, Germany Walk By’ scheme is a great vehicle to We share a determination to lead with drive our safety performance forwards the openness, honesty and respect Major, MoD and Army HQ and I encourage you all to speak up that underpins our relationship. Leading, 31 Armoured Engineer whenever you have concerns. It really Squadron, Germany and Iraq is as simple as not walking by. I am proud to be part of the RSME team. I make no apology for repeating Deputy Chief of Staff, While it is obvious that we need to our common vision of delivering 4th Mechanised Brigade, keep both trainees and staff safe, I trainee-focused, technology-enabled UK, Afghanistan want us to go one step further and learning, fit for Defence’s challenges and Awarded MBE instil a lifelong safety awareness in our opportunities, today and tomorrow. trainees. We can do this only by living Field Army, Headquarters 3 and breathing safety-first at all times. Peter Rowell () Division

Advanced Command and Staff Course

Army HQ, writing concepts on the future of warfare and the Army

Commanding 32 Engineer Regiment, Hohne, Germany and Catterick, North

Colonel, Army Headquarters, team leader for Army research and experimentation programme, robotic and autonomous systems

Higher Command and Staff Course

Commandant RSME Gp

6 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 A convoy of vehicles is approaching its final destination and the radio traffic is mounting as the commanders manoeuvre into position, providing cover Command for their colleagues whilst maintaining a safe distance and keeping a lookout for enemy activity. The atmosphere in each vehicle is tense. It is the first time many of the drivers have driven the large armoured engineer vehicles Training in convoy across hostile terrain. Not all have yet made it safely to the rendezvous point and the stragglers are working hard to catch-up.

At this point the senior member of the Facility directing staff broadcasts to all the vehicles: ‘OK team, let’s call it to a halt there, take a short break and meet in the review area in five minutes.’

We’re in the Command Training Facility at Gibraltar Barracks and there is an audible sigh of relief around the room as the first exercise of the day draws to a conclusion. Drivers, navigators, gunners and radio operators swarm out of their individual ‘vehicles’ and exchange experiences with their colleagues before heading to the review area.

The Command Training Facility is a sophisticated simulator centre that allows students to conduct military operations across the virtual world created in Virtual Battlespace 3 (VBS3), a comprehensive desktop training package based on commercial video game technology.

VBS3

Over 14,000 models in the content library

Terrain generation and modelling tools

2,000+ documented scripting commands

Real-time and offline scenario creation and editing tools

After-action review with timeline and editing capabilities

VBS radio enabling remote voice communications

Chalkboard capability for mission planning and rehearsals

Customisation tools to create bespoke models, maps and content

7 It’s a sophisticated simulation which allows everything from planning and what-if scenario development to full Squadron deployment

The suite is much more than a simple Today’s students are members of 4 Field Captain Parkin explained what they computer-based wargame, with which Squadron, 21 Engineer Regiment, under were planning to achieve during their many students are very familiar. It’s a the command of Officer Commanding time at the Command Training Facility. sophisticated simulation which allows Captain Josh Warne. Captain Warne and ‘This series of exercises is the first everything from planning and what-if his Operations Officer, Captain Fi Parkin, experience many of our troops will have scenario development to full Squadron first learned about the Command Training had of moving as a squadron. Initially deployment. Participating personnel Facility during their Troop Commanders the focus is on low level basic convoy operate vehicles in exactly the same way Course and realised that it would be an driving, combined with the use of radio as they would in the real world and can excellent resource to help with the current communications and procedures. We will only communicate with their colleagues re-role from Field Squadron to Strike then move on to moving as a squadron by using formal radio procedures. The Squadron. In their new role, operating and deploying on support tasks as well added background noise of a realistic within a strike battle group (a close support as responding to enemy contact. battlefield environment, simulated enemy role), they will rely on their ability to operate contact and the ability to interact with and manoeuvre their vehicles effectively and By the end of our simulator training, we will HQ and air support elements, further carry out their engineer tasks while being have well developed Standard Operating adds to the realism of each session. prepared to respond to potentially rapidly Procedures (SOPs) and well drilled teams changing battle conditions and events. with a much better understanding of

8 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 how strike operations are executed. Up to three groups can be accommodated the vehicle crews. At the same time, we are This is fantastic preparation for our first within the simulator at any one time, a upgrading the auditorium area seating and UK Exercise, Ex JEBORA WARRIOR, to total of up to 42 students: 15 pairs of adding new visual aids that will enable us be held on the Catterick training area. operators (driver, navigator/gunner), two to carry out floor-based obstacle crossing We will then travel to the four-person command posts and four tasks using new audio-visual technology.’ Training Unit Suffield (BATUS) in Canada, personnel in the exercise control room. to participate in Ex PRAIRIE STORM.’ If you feel your own course or unit could Warrant Officer 2 Russ Howells, the benefit from time at the Command Captain Parkin worked closely with Authority Lead on the Command Training Training Facility, then simply contact Q Holdfast’s Steve Scott, to develop and Facility, commented. ‘We’re also starting Mobility at 01252 86 3967, to arrange agree the training scenarios to be used. work on a project to upgrade the vehicle a preliminary discussion or email ‘Steve’s depth of knowledge and engineer booths to enhance the simulation [email protected] perspective has proven invaluable and the experience by increasing the isolation of Command Training Facility is proving a remarkable asset. The ability to stop and carry out immediate after-action reviews, often with commentary from our own experienced personnel, has worked well and following each review we are able to repeat the serial or move on to the next phase of the exercise. The flexibility and support offered by the Command Training Facility team has been second-to-none.’

21 Engineer Regiment is just one of several external units to utilise the Command Training Facility during 2019. The Facility is also now a regular feature within several courses at the RSME:

Royal Engineer Troop Commanders’ Course

Field Sergeants’ Course

Royal Engineer Communications and Information Services (CIS) School courses (Class 1 and 2)

Junior Command Course

9 WorldSkills November 2019, the National Exhibition For over 65 years WorldSkills UK has Class 1, Pete Shiel. Major Lishman Centre (NEC) Birmingham. A sold-out also been a leading player in WorldSkills describes WorldSkills as the Olympics event. Rock music pumping out across International, a global movement that for vocational skills, with 14 specific skills the exhibition halls, all of which are brings together 78 countries to organise of relevance to the Royal Engineers. filled with the sound of excited voices the biennial ‘skills Olympics’. The top and throngs of people. WorldSkills competitors from the UK final go on to The Corps of Royal Engineers was also UK LIVE is underway; an interactive represent the UK at the European and one of the many potential employers that national showcase bringing together World Finals that are held across the was present at the NEC, complete with a the UK’s leading employers and globe. The next WorldSkills final will dive tank where you could play a game of showcasing apprenticeships to help be held in 2021 in Shanghai, . noughts and crosses with a diver – always young people experience a wide range a popular activity. There was also the of career options under one roof. The Royal Engineers first entered opportunity to learn more about the whole WorldSkills UK in 2018 with only five range of Royal Engineer trades and roles. Established in 1948, WorldSkills UK is a competitors. The benefits of participation partnership between businesses, education were quickly recognised by the Corps Acknowledging the support received from and government, in which experts from of Royal Engineers and last year, for across the RSME Group and beyond, Major across the UK are united to run skills the first time, a WorldSkills UK regional Lishman reflected on the positive interest competitions for thousands of young heat was held at Brompton Barracks. generated both internally from within the people every year. Regional heats lead to In total 12 Sappers competed in the RSME Group and the Corps, and externally the selection of finalists who participate in regional heats around the UK in welding, from civilian competitors and their supporting the UK finals, competing in 70 vocational bricklaying, plumbing, electrical and teams who visited Chatham for last skills from across four business sectors: carpentry, with three of the competitors year’s event. Major Lishman also thanked reaching the final at the NEC. Warrant Officer Class 1 Pete Shiel for his Engineering and Technology organisational skills and MKCTS for material Major Glen Lishman, SO2 Recruitment, support; he gave particular thanks to Andy Digital, Business and Creative Regimental Headquarters Royal Bull, Programme Area Leader – Fabrication. Health, Hospitality and Lifestyle Engineers, has led on the Corps’ Andy not only provided the drive and participation in the WorldSkills activities, expert knowledge to support the welding Construction and Infrastructure supported by Corps Warrant Officer competition at Chatham, he also assisted ‘A big plus is that you get chance to really develop your trade skills. The competitive element is exciting and the buzz during the National Finals at the NEC was amazing’ Sapper Cameron Hood

10 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 2015 WorldSkills – Sao Paulo, Brazil 2016 EuroSkills – Gothenburg, with refresher training for the competitors 2017 WorldSkills – Abu Dhabi, from the Corps of Royal Engineers and accompanied those successful in United Arab Emirates progressing to the UK finals at the NEC.

Having established himself as a 2018 EuroSkills – , Hungary knowledgeable subject matter expert, Andy was asked by WorldSkills UK to 2019 WorldSkills – Kazan, join the UK support team on the run-up to the 2019 finals. As a member of the technical panel he helped to develop the assessment strategy and was responsible found himself accepting an invite to go experience the really positive interactions for the measurement of all materials before to the finals in Kazan, Russia where he between so many different nationalities.’ the competition started. The tasks are acted as a neutral judge, managing a designed to enable blind testing to eliminate group of ten welding competitors. All of the competitions consist of a the possibility of competitors being trained series of demanding technical and to simply pass a set test. The development Andy commented, ‘It was an experience practical challenges, in which a limited of the technical documentation required I will never forget. It was a demanding amount of time is given to competitors to run the competition is very thorough, schedule for both the competitors and to complete the tasks. Competitors must with experts meeting periodically the supervising instructors, but there was be technically strong, able to plan and to review, discuss and agree any a really good atmosphere throughout manage their time effectively and be amendments. During this process, Andy the event, and it was fascinating to capable of performing under pressure.

LT COL MARK W STEPHENSON, CO 1 RSME REGT

Tp Comd 38 Engr Regt in ICSC(L) support of 19 Light Bde, Belize SO2 IG2 Joint Warfare, JFC and Iraq in support of 1 RGJ lessons, then assessment of BGE 32 Engr Regt Defence contingent risk supporting 7 Armd Bde OC 3 Armd Engr Sqn, Ex PRAIRIE 1 Royal Regt of Fusiliers and STORM, Ex WARPAINT 16 2 Royal Anglian, SO2 G7 Engr, BATUS BGE UK MiTT Gp, Iraq Mvr Sp Team, Capability Regtl Ops Offr 23 Engr Regt GM, Army HQ (Air Assault), Afghanistan in CO 1 RSME Regt support of 16 Air Assault Bde

11 Three Sappers competed in the UK finals. was palpable, I’m sure this helped Lance Corporal Matt Howlett (39 Engineer those competing in the UK trade finals, MICHAEL GARROD, Regiment) won the regional welding heat there was a real sense of occasion. It MANAGING DIRECTOR, MKCTS at Chatham, placing eighth out of 105 was great to see three Sappers there; competitors nationwide. Sapper Cameron representing the Corps amongst the Aerospace Engineering Degree Hood (39 Engineer Regiment), also a best young tradespeople in the country, welding finalist, placed sixth overall in able to perform technically and under Structural Dynamics the regional heats. Sapper Kevin Brown pressure. A truly impressive performance Engineer, QinetiQ (21 Engineer Regiment), competed in by all three and a great platform to Project Manager, QinetiQ the electrical heats placing third out of demonstrate what the Army has to offer. I 76 regional competitors. Although none look forward to supporting the preparation Ops Mgr, Simulation of the finalists achieved a podium finish of more RE competitors this year.’ Training, QinetiQ at the UK finals, they all performed well Head of Projects, and impressed the judges with their The scale of the competition coupled with Aerospace, QinetiQ enthusiasm, skills and technical knowledge. witnessing the three Sappers competing Colonel Mark Stephenson, alongside the best tradespeople in the Head of Business, UAVs and Commanding Officer 1 RSME country were also the two highlights of Autonomous Systems QinetiQ Regiment, attended the WorldSkills Mike Garrod’s experience of the WorldSkills Prog Dir, Integrated Avionic UK finals together with Managing final. Applauding the dedication of the Systems, QinetiQ Director MKCTS, Mike Garrod. MKCTS instructors who prepared and supported the Sappers throughout, Mike Head of Delivery, Air Garrod was delighted with the successes Systems, QinetiQ of the competition commenting: ‘What a Head of Programmes, QinetiQ ‘Training was tremendous achievement for the individuals, the Royal Engineers, Holdfast and MKCTS Delivery Dir, Cyber, Information tough. In the to get to the finals, long may it continue.’ and Training, QinetiQ

Director Programmes, regional finals I Colonel Matt Quare, Corps Colonel RE, Joint Forces, QinetiQ summed up. ‘There is no doubt that set off a bit fast success during the WorldSkills competition Managing Director, MKCTS should be recognised and be up there but was pleased alongside the top Army sports men and women. I hope to see that the regional to make it to the heats will return to Chatham next year and will be watching with interest to see which finals at the NEC’ of our young Sappers makes it to the finals.’ Lance Corporal Matt Howlett If any Sappers are interested in competing in future WorldSkills competitions the Mark Stephenson first step is to discuss it with the chain commented. ‘My visit to the NEC was of command. More information can be eye opening; so much energy and found at www.worldskillsuk.org interest, and on such a scale. The Army’s recruiting stands were a hive of activity, busy engaging with thousands of young people and demonstrating the breadth of opportunity available. The excitement

12 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 The Corps of Army Music (CAMUS) was established in 1994 under the Options for Change Defence review.

Within CAMUS sit today’s 15 Army Bands, providing support to great public occasions such as Beating the Retreat or State Ceremonial events. Army bands can be seen throughout the year at less high profile outings; supporting marching troops or playing at a range of concerts, county shows and other local events. Army musicians are also active around the world, operating through Short Term Training Teams (STTT) that project influence through music, transcending barriers such as language and culture. The positive impact upon troop morale has been confirmed time and again and continues through the many smaller contemporary music groups that can be deployed from within the current band structure.

Army music is changing

13 COL VICTORIA C REID OBE DCAMUS, COMDT RMSM

Logistic Support Detachment SO2 CSS Coordination, HQ ARRC Comd, Lead Armd BG Kings coordinating UK contribution to , Op AGRICOLA 1, NATO CSS planning and doctrine Kosovo. Also led the project to help OC 95 BdeSp Sqn, 9 Supply rebuild Pristina Medical College Regt RLC, Ex GRAND PRIX MA Logistics Management (VIPER), Kenya and preparation for deployment on Op HERRICK 13 Completed the ICSC (L) SO1 Policy, Directorate of Manning SO2 CSS Ops HQ Land, Op HERRICK (Army) and lead desk officer, personnel and contingency operations: Iraq, policy, policy casework and the re- Afghanistan, also completing PJHQ introduction of Versatile Engagement sponsored logistics project CO 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC Lead Land CSS desk officer Op Fuel and General Transport Tp Comd, HIGHBROW, National Evacuation Awarded the OBE in 2019 2 Close Support Regt, Germany Operation, Directing Staff, Australian ACSC Pan Balkans SO3 Logistic Support Awarded the MBE in 2009 DCAMUS and Comdt RMSM 1 Mech Bde, Op AGRICOLA CO (Rear) of 500 soldiers (RHQ Adjt, 8 Tpt Regt, Iraq, Op TELIC 4 deployment to Afghanistan)

Food Logistic Officer Course Completed the ACSC

For many years, Army bands struggled to music to be provided at appropriate Symphonic Wind Bands maintain their membership and a formal events. Additional musical capability is review in 1994 reduced the number of also available from the Reserve Army Mounted Bands bands by half. The latest review, Military Bands and Regimental Music Groups, Bands Music Optimisation, has resulted in a further such as the Corps of Pipes and . reduction in the number of bands, but at String the same time sees a new band formation In addition, CAMUS has the capability Rock and Contemporary Pop Groups (the Type 54 band). Four new bands have to form specialist bands for particular been created, through the colocation of purposes, such as the Army Fanfare Trumpeters 11 existing bands. Normally these new and Army Jazz Orchestra. Each Army Band Small Ensembles bands will perform in the uniform of the can also deploy many small groups and Corps of Army Music but there is still ensembles from within their ranks, covering Traditional Folk Groups the opportunity for Corps or Regimental all types of music from classical to rock.

14 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 REGULAR ARMY BANDS

Band of The Household Band of the () Band of the Brigade of Cavalry (Windsor) Gurkhas (Folkestone) Band of The Royal Regiment Band of the (London) of () Countess of Wessex’s String Orchestra (Woolwich) Band of the (London) Band of the Prince of ()

Band of the (London) Band and of (Worthy Down) (London) NEW BRITISH ARMY BANDS (COLLOCATED BANDS) CAMUS British Army Band Catterick British Army Band Sandhurst (Royal (, King’s Logistic Corps, ) Division, Corps of Royal Electrical British Army Band Tidworth (Royal and Mechanical Engineers) Mission Artillery, Corps of Royal Engineers, British Army Band Colchester (Parachute Adjutant General’s Corps) Regt, Army Air Corps, Queen’s Division) To provide musical support to: sustain and develop the HQ CAMUS is currently based at Kneller impressed by the dedication, passion Hall in Whitton, a stones throw from the and pride within the Corps, coupled with moral component world famous Twickenham rugby ground. the desire of all concerned to achieve Kneller Hall has been the site of the Royal musical excellence at all times. of fighting power; Military School of Music since 1857, although for the first 30 years it was simply ‘The constant drive for individual musical State Ceremonial known as the for Military excellence sometimes meant that the Bands. The School was founded by His Corps would operate in a way that was and Public Duties Royal Highness the Duke of Cambridge very different from my own experiences after his appointment as Commander-in- during my previous 22 years in the Army. outputs; and Chief in 1857. He was concerned about However my own passion and drive to the very mixed quality of military bands deliver professional excellence, ensuring influence in order to at the time and wanted to implement a that team dynamics are optimised and common approach to music training and that every team member can fulfil their further Defence and performance standards. In 1887, the potential, has enabled me to harness the Golden Jubilee year of Her Majesty Queen energy and enthusiasm across every part National interests. Victoria, the School was renamed the of CAMUS, including the RMSM, and the Royal Military School of Music (RMSM) result is a team I’m proud to be part of. and is now part of the RSME Group.

Next year, both the School and HQ CAMUS will relocate from Kneller Hall. Illiciting mixed emotions amongst Army musicians past and present, the moves, which were identified as part of a wider MoD study, will create new opportunities for the development of future generations of military musicians.

Leading this major change exercise is Colonel Vicky Reid OBE. Colonel Reid is no stranger to the world of music, as she is an enthusiastic amateur singer and performer. However, as a professional logistics and operations specialist, this was her first contact with the world of Army music. She was immediately

15 CAMUS Vision Army Music will uphold the professionalism and reputation of the British Army, reinforcing the strengths and passion in our heritage, and brought together in a unifying and inspirational identity. As an organization we are committed to engage, unite and inspire our people, optimising individual talent and potential. As a result, our people will feel valued and enthused, working collectively to consistently deliver musical excellence. ENGAGE UNITE INSPIRE

While the outward appearance of Kneller move with a clear focus and purpose. In summer 2021, Initial Trade Training Hall is impressive, it is no longer fit for It’s important that we place musicians (Phase 2) will relocate to a site at purpose as a training establishment and and musical leadership at the centre of , sitting alongside the Royal it is time to move on to facilities that will all that we do and that musical standards Marines School of Music. The Subsequent enable us to train our musicians to meet are at the forefront. Operating within Trade Training (Phase 3), the Musical the challenges of the 21st Century. There existing Military bases will provide the Direction and International courses, was probably never going to be an ideal infrastructure and logistics support not will be based at Gibraltar Barracks at time to make such a move, but I feel it has easily accessible currently, such as Minley, just to the West of London. created an opportunity for CAMUS and on-site medical services and modern the RMSM. The MoD’s decision to close living accommodation and facilities. That The RMSM already has a strong the site at a time when CAMUS has also will allow us to focus on our priorities, relationship with Gibraltar Barracks, as it completed its own reviews, of not only the to deliver on our vision and mission, carries out annual military training on the band structure, but how we recruit, train and to provide an enhanced living and training grounds at Minley, supported by and retain our musicians means we can welfare experience for our musicians.’ the training team within 3 RSME Regiment.

16 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 SHORT TERM TRAINING TEAMS (STTT) manage the tours effectively and to be able to organise and coordinate both As well as the traditional roles of the BRASS FOR AFRICA the ensemble and the activities they will Army musician, there is the possibility be involved with, both within an STTT Founded over 10 years ago by airline for the musicians to participate in and during their normal UK activities. pilot Jim Trott, with the initial donation one of the STTT that are deployed A series of training sessions delivering of 30 rather old and well used brass across the world, supporting bands leadership and management training, instruments from his son’s junior brass and musicians in countries as (NVQ level 5, equivalent to a Foundation band, Brass for Africa now supports diverse as and Ethiopia. Degree), to junior ranks is underway. over 1000 children and young people in Uganda, Liberia and Rwanda Following scoping and planning meetings The STTT creates opportunities for every week through brass music in the UK, often initiated by a Defence musicians to experience cultures across the education and life-skills training. The Attaché, a training needs analysis will world while providing support to many local charity also provides employment be completed to ensure that the right fledgling musicians and groups. While in opportunities and training for more approach and team are deployed. This Uganda training the Ugandan Army Band, than 40 African national staff. will include an assessment of the host the STTT was also able to go into the slums nation’s current military music capabilities of Uganda to assist the work of the charity The charity explains its mission on which is then used to identify gaps in their Brass for Africa. This charity was working the Brass for Africa website: ‘Using ability or knowledge which the STTT can with M-LISADA, a home for orphans in music as a tool to empower and tackle. This can often include the review of the Katwe slum. Four of the children that transform the lives of disadvantaged performance videos and online discussions. were supported through this charity have children and young people, we have A training plan is then developed and the recently began training with the British Army identified and measured eight key size and composition of the STTT defined. at the RMSM, an amazing achievement. attributes associated with learning music, such as; self confidence, CAMUS delivers approximately six to resilience, grit and perseverance. These ten STTTs every year. The visits are very TYPICAL ACTIVITIES attributes are integrated into each focused and can cover almost any aspect DELIVERED BY STTTS music lesson, resulting in transferable of military music, from instrumental and life-skills, which can be applied to group tuition through to ceremonial TUITION the participants’ everyday lives.’ training and equipment maintenance. Individual instrument www.brassforafrica.org

The main challenge faced by STTT Small ensemble personnel is the combination of potential language barriers with often conscript musicians with limited musical experience. The motto of M-LISADA is ‘Music This can result in a wide range of abilities to the rescue’, and that seems within the group being tutored, requiring very appropriate as they continue careful thought and planning plus significant TRAINING to inspire and support the slum personal influence and flexibility to ensure children of Uganda through music. that the objectives of the STTT are realised. Ceremonial www.mlisada.org Theory As the STTT is often deployed as a small ensemble of five to ten musicians, led by Musical leadership a Junior or Senior Non-Commissioned Equipment/instrument maintenance Officer, it has been recognised that there is a need to extend the leadership training Music direction/ to these ranks. This will enable them to

17 NEW SECONDARY ROLE

After a number of years focussing purely on their role as musicians, Army musicians have recently taken on a new secondary role. Now, during both operations and exercises, musicians are responsible for the decontamination of casualties, making them safe to enter a field hospital, so that they can be treated. Traditionally musicians have always had an association with the medical services, going back to the First World War when they acted as stretcher-bearers.

The British Army Band (Colchester) was the first band to take on this new role, supporting 34 Field Hospital by working together with medical and nursing Corps, engineers, logistics specialists and signallers. In October 2019, they took part in Ex JORVIK LOOK which involved the deployment of a new field hospital designed to protect against chemical, biological and radiological contamination.

TRAINING DEVELOPMENT

The RMSM is building upon the latest technical exercises such as scales There is also a clear focus ensuring Statement of Requirement for Army or sight reading music. Both of these that both staff and students’ wellbeing, musicians, developing new and innovative elements are fundamental building both physical and mental, is maintained approaches to training. Reinforced by blocks in the performance of music and during what can be quite a stressful their own internal validation processes, play a key role in the final Initial Trade period. Ensuring that trainers receive both the RMSM training development team Training output test, Trade Employment leadership, mentoring and mental health has identified areas where there are Qualification Level 3. To tackle this awareness training is key to achieving this. opportunities to improve training and to issue, which can lead to failure of the strengthen the engagement of students. course, the RMSM has introduced Modern methods of training are the Initial Trade Training Foundation being embraced. Extended use of For example, recent experience has training course that ensures all students the Defence Learning Environment identified the fact that while all new meet the required technical standard enables students to progress at their recruits are excellent performers, they before the end of their course. own pace and allows students to are not all equally good at performing access learning material at all times.

18 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 HOW DO YOU BECOME A MEMBER OF CAMUS? STAGE 1 The Army recruits all types of musicians, The process is as much about giving the Online application from singers to drummers, who potential student the opportunity to confirm might be part of wind, brass, military, that Army life is for them, as it is about orchestral or contemporary pop confirming their suitability for the role. groups. It is also possible to join an If successful, students will then complete Army Reserve Band where training is Army Basic Training before they start Initial provided through a series of evening, Trade Training. This can be via the Junior STAGE 2 weekend and residential courses. entry route, joining the Army at 16 and • Army briefing completing 36 weeks of training at the • Local career centre briefing Most recruits to CAMUS are young, Harrogate, or and preparation of a personal enthusiastic musicians who are looking the Standard entry route for all applicants development plan to make a career in music and may have over 17 years old. This involves a 14- already taken both practical and theory week military training course at an Army exams. The entry level to become an Army Training Centre, before moving to the musician is around Grade 6 standard RMSM to begin their Initial Trade Training. and, although no formal qualifications STAGE 3 are required to audition, many will have On completion of the Initial Trade Training • Army assessment a degree from one of the prestigious UK course the musician will join one of the • A two-day assessment at conservatories. Whatever their background 15 Regular Army Bands across the UK, an Army assessment the selection process is the same, involving and so begin their career in Army music. centre: both selection for their role as a musician Additional qualifications can be gained • Full medical as well as for their role as a soldier. after completing the course; including the • Physical and mental tests BTEC Level 2 in Music, the Associate of • Team exercises Selection for the Initial Trade Training course Trinity College London (ATCL) Diploma • Short presentation • Career discussion is not guaranteed and is a competitive in Music Performance and the Licentiate process, involving both military and of the Royal Schools of Music (LRSM) musical assessments, plus live auditions. Diploma in Musical Direction.

STAGE 4 • Instrumental audition • Support for this will be provided by your most local Army band • The audition will take place at the RMSM on your primary instrument • Perform two contrasting pieces • Scales • Sight reading • Theory and aural assessment • Short interview

STAGE 5 If the audition stage is successful, references and a background check will be carried out before a formal offer is made along with a start date for basic training

19 SUBSEQUENT TRADE TRAINING AND THE INTERNATIONAL COURSE

As Army musicians progress through their career they can be promoted and take on additional leadership responsibilities, such as leading a section or taking on a leadership role within an STTT.

The Musical Direction course is recognised throughout the world as one of the best of its kind

Musicians can progress to the role of following selection for, and completion of, the Musical Direction course. On successful completion of the course they are promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant and can progress to the more Senior Non-Commisioned Officer ranks of Warrant Officer 2 and Warrant Officer 1. The senior commissioned role and past members of staff and musicians within all bands is that of Musical Director, capturing their memories of Kneller Hall LT COL CLAIRE L JAMES (this can be as a Captain or as a Major). over the years. These memories can CO 3 RSME REGT be seen on the Legasee website www. The Musical Direction course is recognised legassee.org.uk, which contains over 600 Tp Comd Op TELIC 1 throughout the world as one of the best video interviews with veterans of military of its kind and there is a constant demand conflicts from 1939 to the present day. Adjt 3 RSME Regt for the RMSM to train international Operational staff appointment, students. To meet this demand the School The Museum will be relocated and all of the Divisional level runs an International Musical Direction items will be safeguarded or, if donated, course which includes key elements from returned to the donors or their families. Initial staff appointments the much longer British Military Musical managing HTS PPP Direction course. Students from all over CAMUS also recognises the importance of Operational Commitments the world attend the course, bringing an the annual concert series that it runs. This HQ Theatre Troops exciting and diverse range of musical styles is an excellent opportunity for the students and experiences to the School. Training to showcase their skills and to perform in OC 33 Armd Engr Sqn, Op and performing alongside the UK Army front of a large and enthusiastic audience. HERRICK 16 (Lead Armd BG) students, lifelong connections between Delivered Army Reserve the students are often forged, bridging The School is very keen to recognise that Development Programme language and culture through music. the changes planned signpost an exciting future; providing Army musicians with state- Directing staff on ICSC(L) of-the-art facilities and a much improved CELEBRATING THE MOVE, Army and RE workforce planning welfare, living and training environment. REMEMBERING THE PAST C0 3 RSME Regt As Colonel Reid explained, the relocation Lieutenant Colonel Claire James, CO of the School has many benefits and will 3 RSME Regiment based at Gibraltar enable the RMSM to provide even better Barracks, Minley, commented ‘We are training for the Army musicians of the looking forward to welcoming CAMUS and future. It is, however, equally important the RMSM to Minley and ensuring that they to recognise the role that Kneller Hall has are fully integrated into the life of the Station.’ played in the 162 years it has been the home of Army Music. As has been said, To recognise this momentous occasion, recognising and maintaining the spirit during 2021 there will be fanfare welcome and ethos is critical; initiatives have been events at both Portsmouth and Minley, ongoing to ensure the past is not forgotten. to celebrate the arrival of CAMUS and One particular exciting project involved the RMSM, heralding the start of a new a series of video interviews with present era of Army music and training.

20 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 Exchange officers There is a long history of embedded Lieutenant Colonel Cummings is a Senior overseas personnel within the RSME Instructor and member of the Directing Group and this year is no exception. Staff, focussing on the Royal Engineer 9,545 miles separated the two exchange Troop Commanders’ Course. He has officers at birth; but the interoperability been in-post for 18 months and sees clear explicit within the exchange role has benefits from the exchange posting. brought the skills and knowledge of these two military engineers together. ‘It has been a constant process of learning, Working within the Royal Engineer both for the students and myself; my Warfare Wing (REWW), they each priority is to be an effective instructor operate as full members of the REWW within REWW. This has involved serious team, with the same responsibilities and ‘homework’, helped by an excellent challenges as the British instructors. handover from my predecessor. Of course there are differences from the US Lieutenant Colonel Fred Cummings approach, but there is a solid knowledge joined the US Army via a scholarship base of doctrine and course material in 1998; assigned to his first choice, so I was able to get up-to-speed very LIEUTENANT COLONEL FRED the US Army Corps of Engineers, his quickly. The exchange role provides an CUMMINGS US CORPS OF ENGINEERS experience spans a range of combat excellent basis from which to establish – SI REWW, EXCHANGE OFFICER and technical engineering roles. He the understanding of interoperability, commented, ‘I really enjoy the combat whilst also helping to build a foundation Scholarship 1998 aspect, underpinned by the technical and identify future opportunities for knowledge and experience. Just like my collaborative training between our forces.’ Tp Cmdr, Armoured Close Support, Iraq colleagues in the UK, I very much enjoy Cpt, Multi-Role Bridge Company both building and blowing up obstacles!’ With an ardent determination to train engineers to the highest standard, Deputy Resident Engineer, Nellis During his career, Lieutenant Colonel Lieutenant Colonel Cummings was Air Force Base, (Nevada, USA) Cummings has deployed across the world, keen to highlight the importance of Area Engineer Officer in Charge, including a three-year deployment with the sharing lessons learned and to identify Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan US Eighth Army in the Republic of Korea. and share best practice. Impressed by the professionalism of the UK Maj, ‘Airborne’ (XVIII Airborne Corps) It was the impact of that deployment, where Engineers and the support he has Maj, Command General Staff College both he and his family were able to fully received from peers and co-workers, immerse themselves in the culture of the he has also found that their enthusiasm 2IC, HQ Battalion, 2nd Division, country, that made him so keen to take up the to learn, to exchange doctrine and US Eighth Army, Republic of Korea opportunity to take on another international to make cross-cultural observations role and make the move to the UK. was equally commendable.

21 He has taken every opportunity to hadn’t realised that my American accent and left school to join the share and communicate the US Army might be tricky for some to understand!’ at just 17-years-old, joining the Royal perspective, particularly with the Troop Australian Engineers, as his father had Commanders. Lieutenant Colonel Cummings highlighted before him. He is an experienced combat how much he had learned from the second engineer and served with the Australian There have been several surprises for exchange officer, Warrant Officer 2 Matt Special Operations Regiment in Afghanistan Lieutenant Colonel Cummings during Wilson, of the Royal Australian Engineers. before moving into the training environment, his time at REWW. ‘The biggest surprise ‘We have much more common ground where, amongst other roles, he served as was the language. I had expected to than I first thought, and all three nations a Small Group Instructor, (Officer Training), encounter one, maybe two forms of the have powerful common values that makes at the Royal Military College, Canberra. English language; I hadn’t anticipated it very easy to work effectively together.’ the wide range of regional accents – Warrant Officer Wilson is the Sergeant ‘I really enjoyed the training environment, some of which can be quite challenging Major (SM) Bridging Instructor at the although I still managed to mix it to understand. At the same time, I also REWW. He comes from a military family with some operational deployments.

LT COL KEITH M HEBARD RE CI REWW

Degree, Royal Military College of Science MA, Information Capability Management. 2Lt 1 Armd Engr Sqn, Germany, Canada and Iraq DCOS Supply Chain Information Services, DE&S, Abbeywood Capt 33 Engr Regt (EOD), roles included HQ Sp Trp Comd, Sqn Maj OC 6 HQ and Sp Sqn Ops Offr, Sqn 2IC, UK, BDO, Iraq Maj OC 52 Armd Engr Sqn Ops and Trg Offr 3 RSME Regt, 1st Fusiliers BG, preparing squadron Command of EOD Trials and Data for readiness and warfighting, Canada Validation section, co-ordinated COS of 25 (Close Support) Engr Gp, experimentation and validation of HQ 3 (UK) Div Europe and US EOD render safe procedures SI for Command, Leadership All Arms Cdo course and Management, REWW EOD and search advisor, 3 Cdo BDE Lt Col CI REWW ICSC(L)

22 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 WARRANT OFFICER 2 MATT WILSON – SM BRIDGING, REWW, EXCHANGE OFFICER

ITT, Combat Engineer Training

Combat Engineer, 1st Combat Engineer Regiment, Darwin

Section Commander, Australian Special Operations Regiment, OP SLIPPER, (Afghanistan)

Platoon Sergeant, Basic Training Centre, Sydney

Reece Sergeant, Brisbane

Squadron Sergeant Major, 7th Combat Engineer Squadron, 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment, Brisbane

Small Group Instructor, (Officer Training), Royal Military College, Duntroon, Canberra When I got a call inviting me to apply From a family perspective, Warrant Officer Class Sergeant Major, Second for the exchange position within the Wilson explained that they’ve managed to Phase Officer Training, Combined REWW it was an easy decision.’ travel extensively, not only in the UK but Army Training Centre, Brisbane Warrant Officer Wilson and his family arrived across Europe, something he never thought in the UK during a very cold December and would be possible. ‘It’s been a life-changing his main observation was that it seemed experience that we’ll never forget.’ to be dark all the time. ‘We realised we’d actually made the move to the UK when Chief Instructor REWW, Lieutenant we saw our first red double-decker bus.’ Colonel Keith Hebard, emphasised that first and foremost their role is that His biggest challenge was to learn the of a full member of the REWW team, technical and operational aspects of four but was keen to highlight the many different bridge types, having been used to benefits of the exchange postings. only one in . This involved much burning of the midnight oil and support from ‘When on operations, we do not operate the rest of the team at the REWW. He also in isolation and we need to have a completed the Defence Train the Trainer seamless relationship with our allies. This (DTTT) course which provided a useful doesn’t just apply to our equipment, framework for him to work with. Warrant but equally to the many cultural and Officer Wilson has been busy working with language differences that we encounter.’ the Royal Engineer Troop Commanders’ Course on the General Support Bridge These differences even apply to forces and the Field Sergeants’ Course using the that use English as their native tongue. Medium Girder Bridge, (Double Storey). The sustained nature of the present exchange scheme enables such When asked about the highlights All military forces have a deep understanding; even when from his first year at the RSME, their own technical and common equipment is present, it can he is quick to recognise the be deployed and used very differently. opportunity he has been given. operational language and underlying ‘Diversity and a variety of opinions ‘We’ve had a busy year work-wise, is very healthy and provides a useful with a steep learning curve. But it’s philosophy. It is only challenge to the status quo. Exposure been a great opportunity to expand my by living and working to different cultures is important and knowledge and experience of new bridging we must continue to learn through systems. I’ll be looking to get involved in closely together that our overseas exchange colleagues, as the development and roll-out of similar this can be assimilated well as look for similar opportunities systems when I’m back in Brisbane at for our own personnel to participate the Combined Arms Training Centre.’ and fully understood in similar experiences overseas.’

23 Electric vehicles join the Holdfast fleet Tackling the carbon footprint of organisations and the emissions of greenhouse gases is at the forefront of the UK’s Industrial Strategy.

In June 2019, the UK took the ambitious engine, invented in 1876 by Nikolaus Otto. be the start of an expandable long-term step of becoming the first major economy Petrol and diesel internal combustion logistical solution to aid in the reduction to write into legislation that greenhouse engines therefore dominated the market of the carbon footprint of the RSME. gas emissions will be at net zero emissions and have continued to do so, but now by 2050. RSME and Holdfast are keen there is an immediate need for change. Every organisation has a responsibility to to improve their carbon footprint and reduce their carbon emissions and to find introduced eight new electric vans into the Transport accounts for 23% of the UK’s proactive solutions to reduce their carbon RSME Holdfast fleet in January, marking CO2 emissions so the move to greener footprint to meet the requirements of the the beginning of a new green chapter. automotive options is essential. Striving new legislation. The RSME is embracing its to be at the forefront of innovation, responsibility. The 100% electric vehicles The invention of the first practical electric the RSME Holdfast team is embracing joining the fleet are ideal for the types of vehicle is attributed to Thomas Parker, in the drive for a greener future. RSME journeys undertaken by RSME tradesmen 1884. His invention was considered ideal Authorised Demanding Officer and Group for short city journeys in the 19th century; Fleet Manager Brian Gates has led the the popularity of his invention limited only by project to introduce battery electric AUTOMOTIVE HOMOLOGATION the distances the vehicle could travel. The vehicles, (BEV), into the fleet and install electric battery could not give the vehicle the required charging infrastructure. The vehicle and its component the same capabilities as the fossil fuel Marking the start of a new green initiative parts have been approved for powered alternatives, which were propelled within the RSME, it is hoped that the sale by the appropriate authorities by the modern internal combustion introduction of BEVs into the fleet, will and measurements, such as emissions, are certified according to national standards and specifications. This is a mandatory process which all vehicles: petrol, diesel, hybrid or electric, must go through prior to sale.

24 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 Declan Lowdell trained as a plumber at Mid College, joining Holdfast last year as a Mechanical Technician specialising in plumbing. He is responsible for carrying out environmental and safety checks as part of his role, which combines planned maintenance and reactive tasks across the Medway sites.

Commenting on his electric driving experience, he said: ‘It’s surprisingly nippy. It’s the first time I’ve driven an automatic. The combination of the automatic drive and the silent electric power system took a bit of getting used to, but I’m not sure I’d want to go back to a traditional van any time soon.’ on a day-to-day basis and will reduce The new vans, supplied by Nissan, are fitted with the emissions from those journeys to zero. Six vehicles are based at Brompton a 40kWh battery, which can cover a range of Barracks, Chatham, to serve the Medway up to 124 miles on a combined cycle and 187 sites and a further two vehicles are based at DEMS Training Regiment, Bicester. miles on a city cycle with one single charge

The new vans, supplied by Nissan, are fitted fobs that ensure unregistered vehicles of public priority. Army HQ has a target with a 40kWh battery, which can cover a are unable to use the facility. With an of 25% Ultra Low Emission Vehicles range of up to 124 miles on a combined onboard 6.6kW charger the vehicles by April 2022 and 100% replacement, cycle and 187 miles on a city cycle with can be charged within seven and a half excluding specialist vehicles, by 2030. one single charge. The e-NV200 has an hours via connection to a wall box, ideal electric motor that offers a quieter drive yet for overnight charging, ensuring the The project has been a success so far, maintains excellent immediate acceleration vans are fully charged each morning. with all those involved praising the green through the instant torque provided by the initiative. Over the next 12 months it 109HP 100% electric powertrain. A low Equipped with a new bespoke racking is hoped that any potential problems centre of gravity created by the installation system specially designed to accommodate will be resolved. To date, the user- of the battery pack in the floor, ensures all of the tools and equipment a tradesman experience has only been positive, with the vehicle delivers secure handling whilst might need, the e-NV200 is an ideal size the first drivers appearing to prefer the offering a versatile drive. With zero exhaust with a class-leading cargo capacity of automatic electric drive to that of the emissions, the e-NV200 brings the future 4.2 cubic metres. The new configuration manual diesel or petrol alternatives. of automotive technology to the RMSE. also includes a false floor running the length of the van which allows long It is hoped that this initiative will expand Advances in battery technology have items, ladders and pipes to be stored in the near future. Discussions are already dramatically increased the distance inside the van, eliminating the need for underway with the Authority to extend the vehicles can travel on a single charge as a roof-rack which is much safer and current charging infrastructure and add a well as improving charging times. The increases fuel efficiency. LED lights new installation at Gibraltar Barracks, to Nissan vehicles joining the fleet are also throughout complete the installation. enable them to deploy their own green fleet. homologated using the new Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure The vans provide not only a cleaner Babcock Compliance Manager, Steve (WLTP), a measure which ensures a true and more efficient automotive solution; Neil, is keen to share his experiences of reflection of the vehicles carbon output the running costs are also substantially the initiative with any interested parties; and provides a more accurate reflection less than those of the petrol and diesel he is happy to demonstrate the benefits of the real-life range of the vans. equivalents, with Nissan calculating that both the electric vehicle, and the costs at as low as four pence per mile. charging infrastructure have to offer. The development and installation of an expandable charging infrastructure at The time for change and initiative is now, Chatham and Bicester has been co-funded as the damaging effects of climate change by Holdfast and Babcock. The charging have become increasingly apparent and infrastructure employs programmable key the environment is now at the forefront

25 1917 Trench Mortar Experimental Establishment

1926 Chemical Warfare School

1931 Small Arms School, Anti-Gas Wing

1939 Army Gas School DCBRNC Army School of Chemical Warfare In a quiet village, not far from Salisbury, In 2005 a full site refurbishment was 1947 sits the home of the Defence Chemical, completed and the DCBRNC was born. Joint School of Biological, Radiological and Nuclear The RAF became the lead service for Chemical Warfare Centre (DCBRNC). Last year, the Nuclear, Biological and Chemical training Centre began a new phase in its in 1997, taking over operation of the site history as the Army became the lead in 1999 until the lead role passed to the 1957 Joint School of Nuclear and for Counter-CBRN (C-CBRN) activities Army in April 2019. The site today has Chemical Ground Defence and command transferred from No 2 a purpose-built training complex with Group, RAF, to the RSME Group. headquarters and support elements, together with lecture theatres and 1964 The transition period for these changes is classrooms. The site also has a number of Defence Nuclear, Biological extensive and complex, and full operating bespoke training areas. These allow a wide and Chemical School capability will not be delivered until April range of realistic, scenario-based, exercises 2022. At present, 20 Wing, RAF Regiment that reinforce the classroom learning. are still providing operational readiness 1975 under the command of 28 Engineer Defence Nuclear, Biological HISTORY OF WINTERBOURNE Regiment (C-CBRN), in-service equipment and Chemical Centre GUNNER AND DCBRNC maintenance will be provided by the Army from April 2020, and 28 Engineer Today the DCBRNC is the UK 2005 Regiment (C-CBRN) are currently training centre of expertise for the practical Defence Chemical, Biological, to provide the operational capability application of military CBRN defence. Radiological and Nuclear Centre once the transition period is complete. The DCBRNC is responsible for:

Setting the standards and delivering a HISTORY range of CBRN and C-CBRN courses The site at Winterbourne Gunner was Delivering technical military established in 1917, when it was known CBRN specialist advice DCBRNC as Porton South Camp, a part of the Porton Down research centre. First utilised Providing support to MoD, Joint Forces provides world- in an offensive role as a Trench Mortar Command, Defence Equipment & Support Experimental Establishment, the site really and Defence Science and Technology class C-CBRN came into its own following the introduction Laboratories for specialist and bespoke of chemical warfare during World War 1 CBRN training, concepts and advice education, when it took on a more defensive role. Over Support to equipment and the years the site has evolved, responding capability development training and to the changing threats across the world, as can be seen in the timeline to the right. CBRN medical doctrine and advice to training development

International CBRN engagement Defence

26 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 TRAINING

Potential threats, particularly the increasing utilisation of CBRN weapons by rogue states or terrorist factions, is a growing world- wide reality that must be acknowledged and defended against. This reality has resulted in the need for an increased CBRN capability within UK deployed forces. The DCBRNC trains around 1,250 students annually and has an ever growing demand for skilled and effective trainers.

There are seven core courses delivered at DCBRNC:

CBRN Defence Advisors’ course This ten-day course is designed for military personnel within a brigade, battlegroup or deployed operating base accountable to the Commander for the tactical planning and execution of CBRN defence measures and unit CBRN training

CBRN Defence Cell Controller CBRN Enhanced First-Aid Course (BRACIS) course A basic CBRN First-Aid for junior soldiers This four-week course is designed for military personnel who manage CBRN Medic Course and carry out functions of CBRN CBRN training for Combat Warning and Reporting in control or Medical Technicians collection centres. Including BRACIS – the Biological, Radiological and In addition, several specialist courses Chemical Information System are delivered to CBRN Specialists:

C-CBRN Instructor course CBRN Foundation This three-week course is designed for CBRN Operator Junior Non-Commissioned Officer or above, who aid with tactical planning and Defence Live Agent Training – Crown copyright: Martin Jones execution of CBRN defence measures, via the Defence Science and are answerable to the Defence Advisor Technology Laboratory and assist with CBRN training Training Team assesses collective Advanced Live Agent Training CBRN defence training at unit level – via the Defence Science and CBRN Clinical course and above. Their mission is to facilitate Technology Laboratory An advanced level one-week course CBRN defence proficiency by providing specifically aimed at medical officers, Recce and Exploitation Team external CBRN technical support, nurses and senior medics, it is open to through all phases of the training cycle. Bio Survey and Collection Systems partner nations. Course content covers A key element of this is the provision exposure to CBRN hazards inclusively Multi-purpose Decontamination of train-the-trainer instruction, together from point of exposure to complete with validation checks on the training hospital care. Upon successful completion subsequently carried out at unit level. students are accredited with CBRN clinical The DCBRNC also includes: which is valid for five years but does not The CBRN Trials Development Unit preclude the need for further training The Technical Support Group comprises of personnel skilled and qualified in all aspects of CBRN The CBRN Trials Development Unit CBRN Casualty defence and contributes to the Decontamination Course The Joint CBRN Medical Faculty development of joint service CBRN Typically aimed at defence equipment and procedures. service personnel who provide a Casualty Decontamination role The Technical Support Group provides The Joint CBRN medical faculty in the CBRN environment an external training and trials function. provides CBRN medical training Providing support to all three services to all clinical staff in the UK armed the Technical Support Group External forces, NATO and allied nations.

27 Commandant DCBRNC, Lieutenant Colonel provides generalist training to all military We operate with a very lean team of Mark Normile, was keen to recognise the personnel. The Cell Controller provides dedicated personnel and I look to develop growing importance of providing effective the capability of Warning and Reporting the team over the coming years to ensure collective training to ensure that UK forces, to deployed HQ staff, and together with that we can meet the ever-increasing and our allies, can operate effectively in the advice of a Defence Advisor, provides demand for C-CBRN capability. the modern battlespace. He commented, critical advice to aid senior decision makers. The current training at DCBRNC is a mix of ‘The CBRN trinity of Instructor, Controller It is our role to ensure that sufficient classroom and practical lessons. We are and Advisor is critical. C-CBRN is numbers of these skilled personnel are looking to exploit the use of new learning underpinned by the CBRN instructor, who available to support our deployed forces. philosophies and technologies to enhance the training experience. I’m excited that we can learn from other elements within I’m excited that we can learn from other elements the RSME Group who already utilise within the RSME Group who already utilise such technologies with great success.’ such technologies with great success.

LT COL MARK NORMILE RE, COMDT DCBRNC

Tp Comd Cse (RSME), Tactics Instructor, SO2 Plans, Close Cdo Cse (CTCRM) Canadian Forces School Support Engr, Army of Military Engineering HQ, Capability Mvr Sp Tp Comd 77 Armd Engr Sqn SO3 Engr Ops Regtl 2IC 24 Cdo RE HQ 3 (UK) Div Platoon Comd Instructor, SO1 C-CBRN Transfer, Army Trg Regt Student, ICSC(L) Army HQ, Capability GM

Recce Tp Comd, 59 SO2 Airborne Plans HQ Comdt DCBRNC Indep Cdo Sqn RE 16 (Air Assault) Bde

Sqn 2IC 51 Para Sqn RE OC 131 Ind Cdo Sqn RE

28 Engineer Regiment (C-CBRN)

28 Engineer Regiment has a Over the next two years, 27 and Falcon Squadron (Royal varied history since its initial Squadron, RAF Regiment Tank Regiment) provide Area formation in 1951. More will be working to pass on Surveys and Reconnaissance recently its role was as a close the extensive knowledge and (AS&R), utilising the Fuchs support engineer regiment specialist expertise that they vehicle platform in support before it was disbanded have gained over the ten years of manoeuvre operations. in 2014. The Regiment they have held the Defence The Regiment operates STRUCTURE: was re-formed on the 7th C-CBRN capability to the new from several locations January 2019 as 28 Engineer personnel within 28 Engineer within the UK and deploys 64 Headquarters and Regiment (C-CBRN) and Regiment (C-CBRNC). This teams across the world. Support Squadron, currently comprises Sappers, will include the experiences RAF Honington Troopers and Gunners, and lessons learned during Op Presently, the Royal Engineers Falcon Squadron together with personnel from MORLOP following the nerve of 28 Engineer Regiment (AS&R), the and agent attacks in Salisbury. (C-CBRN) are conducting the Royal Airforce Regiment. Specialist Foundation Training 77 Field Squadron (C-CBRN), 28 Engineer Regiment at DCBRNC, which will be Woodbridge, 27 Squadron, RAF Regiment, (C-CBRN) fulfils a number followed by role-specific 42 Field Squadron have moved under the of specialist roles. The training to prepare them (Summer 2020) operational command of 28 Field Squadrons provide to operate as members Engineer Regiment (C-CBRN). Reconnaissance and of a Reconnaissance and Exploitation Team capability Exploitation Team.

28 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 Project ANEMOI is a £14m Design and Build contract being delivered by the

Photograph courtesy of Lt Col Wayne Meak Corps of Royal Engineers on behalf of the Defence Infrastructure Organisation.

The objective of the project is to replace In addition, a one-fifth scaled-down version ageing domestic accommodation at of the buildings to be constructed in the three Remote Radar Head sites in the Falkland Islands was constructed at the Falkland Islands, located at Mount Wainscott. This allowed collective training Kent; Mount Alice and Byron Heights. to take place before a squadron deployed, using the materials, tools and techniques Project ANEMOI has been a tremendous that would be used in the Falkland Islands. opportunity for the Corps to gain experience in designing, resourcing and The first of two visits to the Falkland Islands building. The project was a major stepup was carried out by a team of MKCTS from the shorter and smaller Joint Force instructors in March last year. The aim of Enabling Exercises that are the norm. both visits was to learn more about the Major Fred Kiddie (Senior Instructor, project implementation, with a focus upon Management, Professional Engineering the trade training and the identification Wing, RSME Group) commented: ‘The of key lessons learned. Two of the team, project has been of massive benefit to the Simon Tozer (Heating and Plumbing) and Corps, enabling such a large number of Ian Horton (Bricklaying and Concreting), personnel to be able to practice their trade explained more about their visit. in the field, not only in terms of experience Arriving in the Falkland Islands, they were and skill development, but also in terms of first briefed by the project team at Project the pride and achievement that has been ANEMOI HQ before traveling to the Mount very evidently felt by all participants.’ Kent site. Simon Tozer said: ‘I was very impressed with both the construction As the Corps transitions from the buildings and the location. The standard project, instructors from the RSME of work was really high and the attitude of Group took the opportunity to visit the various trades was very proactive.’ the Falkland Islands to experience Ian Horton added: ‘Each of the trades conditions on the ground, and to identify had developed model training aids to be any lessons learned from a training used during the squadron hand-over, perspective, that could be incorporated capturing their own lessons learned and into future training at the School. providing support for the incoming team. The RSME Group has been involved in the project since the earliest stage through the Pete Conn (MKCTS Divisional Manager delivery of specific project management – Engineering) and John Dynes (MKCTS training. The Professional Engineering Divisional Manager – Construction) Wing provided an ongoing project also visited the Falklands in May 19. management assurance role that included It was a trip back in time for Peter as regular visits to the Falkland Islands, as he had served there in 1983. well as refresher and pre-deployment training throughout the life of the project.

ANEMOI 29 ANEMOI TRAINING; LESSONS LEARNED:

The importance of cross- trade understanding Photograph courtesy of Lt Col Wayne Meak Excellent use of models to pass- on lessons learned during recces and at squadron handover The construction team should be The refresher training provided at the RSME was very effective proud of what they have achieved The provision of working drawings under often very challenging conditions prior to the PDT package to add realism to the training package He also added that, although the pre- Major Kiddie commented on The need to incorporate real-world deployment refresher-training was effective, the lessons learned within the construction drawings within training collaborative working serials during PDT Professional Engineering Wing. within the trades may have avoid tasks Greater understanding, by all, of having to be re-done. The power of the ‘The use of the Association of Project the impact of last-minute changes triple-traded Sapper was very evident, with Management philosophy and language Potential increased use of the online personnel carrying out a wide range of across the project was a real positive RSME Group ELE/reachback support tasks as well as their specific artisan trade. factor, bringing a common understanding and approach across all levels. But John Dynes felt that although there were more training at an earlier stage would processes in place for 170 (Infrastructure have brought added benefits, as would Support) Group to respond to technical refresher training for key personnel Major Kiddie questions and queries, the skills and before deployment. Operational risk experience at the RSME Group were not was managed really well, but there was keen to taken full advantage of. In particular, he felt needs to be a wider understanding of better utilisation of the available information project and commercial risks. Our own acknowledge contained in the online Enhanced Learning doctrine, captured in JSP 892 (Risk Environment (ELE) would have been a useful Management), provides a good basis the training resource, with easy access to all the course for this, but there needs to be a greater learning materials each trade would need. He awareness of this reference document. provided by the was keen to stress that the construction team should be proud of what they have achieved The impact of unavoidable last-minute RSME Group under often very challenging conditions. design changes was significant, especially in the context of such a long supply One other observation, during both visits, chain and the limited experience of many Pete Conn commented: ‘The journey was was the challenge that many of the trades personnel. These changes were often as long as expected, well worth the effort found working with construction drawings. required to meet new legislation, such but certainly quicker than the 7 days it This was particularly important as many as the update of fire regulations. For the took the last time I made the trip’. We met of the design drawings were available on Construction Task Force and Falkland with the project team and spent two days a just-in-time basis, making the planning Islands-based Project Management visiting the Mount Kent site. The squadron and phasing of some works difficult. Office (PMO), ensuring the construction was well-motivated and I was impressed by drawings were always up-to-date was their attitude, determination and work ethic As a response to this, the instructors a constant challenge. Site specific for giving of their best in trying conditions. brought back examples of a range of design changes also reduced the Even though it was relatively warm when we the complex construction drawings that advantages inherent in maintaining a visited, there was still snow on the ground’. were being used and will consider this common design across all three sites.’ when structuring future PDT packages.

30 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 The Joint Force Enabling Exercise is designed to test a Royal Engineer unit in its ability to deploy to remote locations around the globe and rehearse infrastructure and artisan skills. It connects the skills learnt within the RSME to expected operational outputs in a collective training setting. Major Kiddie was keen to acknowledge to exercise their skills and to maintain the training provided by the RSME Group. their unique triple-trade capability.

‘The ability to complete the work to such ‘It was important to define the task-specific In the wider context, Project ANEMOI has high standards under really challenging training needs as early in the process as provided the Corps with the opportunity conditions, especially the extreme possible. A series of recces would be to deliver infrastructure in an extremely weather conditions, is a testament completed by each incoming squadron remote part of the world, recalibrating to the training provided by the RSME to ensure this was achieved. Reachback its ability to do so following more than a Group. I am still involved in the project was provided from the Military Design decade of campaigning in the . and have more assurance visits planned Authority with any construction related The feat was taken on in a relatively quiet as the transition to civilian contractor is questions being passed to the relevant time, post Operation HERRICK, providing completed. Each assurance visit is very Subject Matter Expert. As the RSME focus back to large-scale delivery rather intensive, but it is a thorough and fair team members have commented, the late than simply training for the rapid provision process. At the end of each two-week development of elements of the design of small-scale solutions. The biggest visit we provide immediate feedback to and resulting last minute issue of design reward for the Corps is not in what has the Officer Commanding, highlighting drawings was a problem. In particular, been delivered, (that was in itself very the principle recommendations so that the lack of ‘issued for construction’ impressive), but in identifying the gaps that they can work on them straight away.’ drawings meant that the drawings are now being articulated with extensive provided needed a skilled foreman to analysis both by the Corps and externally, Lieutenant Colonel Wayne Meek is the fully understand and effectively utilise. using experienced captains of industry. Commanding Officer of 63 Works Group, The evidenced based outputs from this will and is responsible for the delivery of Project Acknowledging the deep tradesman allow the Corps to fully realise the benefits ANEMOI. He reinforced the importance skill refresher support to the project that of taking on a task that has exposed what of the project in terms of providing an Holdfast provided, the work delivered it is good at, as well as the numerous areas opportunity for the Royal Engineers on-site was of an impressive standard. that it can, and should, now improve on.’

Lieutenant Colonel Meek concluded. ‘How the Corps planned, executed and delivered Project ANEMOI, against a backdrop of ever-increasing operational commitments, has resulted in a rich source of data which will allow the Corps to reflect on how it can deliver infrastructure at-range more effectively. We have been able to compare commercial processes with our own internal ones, and experiment with technologies that were not in regular use by the Royal Engineers at the start of the project. In a time of innovation and seizing new ways of doing things, Project ANEMOI has provided the Corps with the very best opportunity to identify where it can improve.’

31 HQ refurbishment In the past year, anyone visiting situated upon the symmetrical axis of Planning commenced in 2013 and with Brompton Barracks will have noticed the war memorials and the quadrangle a building of this age there were many that Headquaters RSME Group has of the existing buildings to the West. challenges that could be anticipated been shrouded behind a mass of 145 years later, the cleaning and in advance, such as the presence of scaffolding and sheeting as part preservation of the terracotta features asbestos. This meant that clear processes of a major refurbishment project. that define much of the external aspect and procedures were in-place to guarantee During this period personnel normally of the building are just two of the many that the asbestos was safely dealt with. housed in the building were dispersed challenges Assistant Project Manager, Ben However, with a project of this scale there throughout the site. The project was Gravett has had to face during the project. are always surprises, and one of these completed in November and the building Liaising closely with the local conservation was the discovery of clinker and animal reoccupied just before Christmas. officer, Ben and the team ensured that hair insulation above one of the ceilings. work was carried out in a manner that A quick check for the presence of anthrax Following the Commission on Military preserved the historical aspects of the spores was required before it could be Education in 1869, Sir Frederick building whilst also creating an up-to-date removed. The testing proved negative Ommanney, a Captain serving in the Headquarters for the RSME Group. and the insulation was safely removed. Royal Engineers, designed the building as the new home for the School of The refurbishment has involved a complete The refurbishment of the outside of Military Engineers. Retiring from the mechanical and electrical strip out and the building was to prove no less of a military in 1878, Sir Ommanney went on replacement. The building now has all the challenge, as until the building was fully to have a long and distinguished career electrical, lighting and communications scaffolded it had not been possible to carry as a civil servant, serving as Head of systems required, including the out a full survey. The survey generated the Colonial Office from 1900-1907. installation of a new network computer a long list of conservation and repair room. Kitchen areas and conference activities, but fortunately only a couple of Built between 1872-4 and comprising rooms were completely refitted, with major repairs were identified – a testament a central lecture hall flanked by special an additional conference room being to the initial construction of the building. teaching sections, the building has an created on the ground floor. Three new One of the biggest surprises for Ben Italianate style and has been recognised boilers replaced much older inefficient came when the windows were examined. by Historic England for its early use of units and, to meet the conservation He explained ‘The windows were the revived ashlar and Doulton terracotta. requirements, 199 replacement original oak windows, first installed in Given Grade II listed status on 8 July heritage radiators were sourced and 1874, and the majority were in really 1998, the Headquarters building is installed, which was no easy task! good condition. The conservation experts

32 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 suspect that much of the timber had been recycled from and so it could be well over 200 years old! If they last another 145 years, then we will have done our job properly.’

The erection of scaffolding also marked the start of a delicate cleaning exercise which utilised a combination of DOFF® and TORC® cleaning systems (see pullout box), in order to carefully maintain all of the original features of the building, such as the Portland stone surrounds of the windows and the Corinthian pillars linked by cast iron railings.

Speaking to RSME Matters the week before the building was due to be reoccupied, 10,500 square metres of Ben shared his thoughts on the project. ‘It walls and ceiling painted has to be my biggest personal challenge to-date. It’s certainly the largest and 222 windows refurbished most complex project I’ve managed, and 199 radiators installed my early career in construction together with the construction management 723 small power sockets installed courses I’ve been studying with Kent Safety is always the number one priority 386 data sockets installed University have proved their worth.’ within the RSME Group and Ben was pleased to report that there were no Ben also praised the whole team: from his lost-time accidents during the project. colleagues at Babcock, the Authority and When asked what he was most proud main contractor Vinci, to the many sub- of, he replied, ‘The support from all the Ben’s next project is the refurbishment of contractors, external experts and regulatory different teams involved. It really was a Building 10, the Regimental Headquarters bodies, who all had the conservation of the team success and one to be proud of. of 1 RSME Regiment, at the same building to the fore while simultaneously It’s certainly a project I will remember, time as continuing his studies toward ensuring the creation of an up-to-date as my second son was born just Chartered membership of the Institute of and efficient Headquarters building. before the project was completed.’ Building and MAPM accreditation.

CLEANING SYSTEMS USED

DOFF® is a proprietory system that creates a high temperature of 150°C at the nozzle but at a very gentle pressure, perfect for removing and preventing the growth of biological matter such as algae, fungi (including spores), moss and stains without damaging the substrate.

TORC® is a system that uses a low-pressure air supply, a small amount of water and a very fine powder such as calcium carbonate. It is suitable for cleaning delicate surfaces that are damaged by paint, lime scale and carbon sulphating. It is also suitable for use on bronze, brass, copper and anodised aluminium.

33 DATR training military The Kong™ dog toy, invented over 40 years ago, is designed to stimulate the natural instincts of working dogs a dog in all stages of life. Using natural rubber which provides an erratic bouncing quality to the toy, the toy has a hole in the middle The Defence Animal Training Regiment Areas detection dogs are which can be filled with treats and (DATR), based in Melton Mowbray, is trained to operate: rewards which makes it an ideal responsible for the acquisition and training toy for both military and training of all military animals. Since Drugs civilian training applications. the end of the Second World War this Arms explosive search has included all the Military Working Dogs used in Defence with the aim of Vehicle search providing motivated and well-trained as sit, it is rewarded with praise and extra High assurance search animals capable of working as detection, playtime with the Kong™. Over time, the protection and dogs. Explosive detection (1 Military size of the Kong™ is reduced until it is Working Dog Regiment only) small enough to be hidden within a small Dogs are normally around 12 months package or in a location such as a narrow of age when they arrive at the DATR pipe or hole; it is at this point that the next and will have had some basic training Once the dogs arrive at the DATR they stage of training can be introduced. by the vendor. Trainers look for certain are kept isolated from the main kennels characteristics in the young dogs that while they undergo a range of veterinary As training continues, and the dogs’ help them identify the potential role they tests. This is followed by a two-week skills develop, trainers can match dogs can be trained for; inquisitive, lively dogs bonding period, during which time the to specific detection roles. For example, displaying a keen interest in playing with dog can familiarise itself with the trainer, an inquisitive dog who is happy to a toy are ideal for detection training, the site environment and undertake a few approach strangers and explore new whereas protection or military police dogs offsite visits to places such as military areas would be ideally deployed as need to simultaneously have a firm bite airports. It is extremely rare, but at this a drug detection dog, operating in a and show confidence. All the dogs are point it is a possible for a dog to be crowded environment such as an airport trained using reward-based training based deemed unsuitable for the role due to arrival lounge but the same animal on praise and positive reinforcement. temperament or lack of drive, in which could be bored and thus less effective case the dog will either be reassigned to if deployed as a vehicle search dog. a new role or returned to the vendor. DETECTION DOGS The trainer will next begin to pair the Numerous breeds of dog can be used for The Kong™, a dog toy made from natural Kong™ with the target odour, such as detection roles, though most common rubber and designed to bounce in an drugs, munitions or explosives. This is are the gundog breeds; typically the unpredictable way, provides the basis for achieved by placing the new target odour Labrador Retriever or English Springer detection training. Intensive play sessions next to a small piece of Kong™. The Spaniel. The natural characteristics with the Kong™ are used to facilitate dog by now is familiar with locating and present in both breeds mean they have command training and when the dog indicating to the handler the presence of a natural aptitude for detection. responds correctly to a command, such a hidden Kong™ and eventually, through

34 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 TRAINER, PROTECTION DOGS

Cpl Kinzie Pitman joined the RAF Police to follow his ambition of working with dogs. His Phase 2 training at Southwick Park, Portsmouth (RAF Police training) was swiftly followed by the three-week protection handling and baiting course at the DATR. ‘I was very nervous about my first baiting session but now really enjoy that side of the training.’ He said, ‘It’s amazing how the dogs can vary in both their approach and the strength of their bites!’

He then spent three years at RAF Marham, mainly providing the night patrol of secure areas and also completed a six-month deployment to the Falkland Islands. Two years ago, he was accepted at the DATR as a trainer, teaching protection dog handling.

repeated exposures, the dog learns to response of passive indication, such as encourage the dog to have aggressive recognise the new odour next to the sitting next to the location of the odour. tendencies but to ensure the dog is Kong™. At this point the Kong™ is then At this point the performance of the dog is capable of holding an assailant until the removed completely from the search area evaluated by the Chief Trainer and senior command is given to release. As training and only the new target odour is left hidden members of the DATR training team, who continues the dog is introduced to the for the dog to find. The dog has been will decide whether the dog is ready to chase away and bite procedure, effective classically conditioned to recognise the new take the formal role specific Into Service release, the return to the handler’s side odour and upon locating it understands Acceptance Check (ISAC), which is carried and to wait in the down position while that in order to receive a reward it will out by the unit receiving the dog. Once the the handler searches the suspect. need to offer the previously conditioned ISAC has been passed, the dog transfers to the unit and is paired with a handler and Once these skills are mastered, the another familiarisation period begins. At the dog then learns how to pick up the end of this period, both dog and handler scent of a suspect when patrolling must pass a formal licensing check, where down wind, is trained in agility handling they demonstrate their ability to work and heel work and is taught how to together successfully as a team, capable conquer a range of obstacles. of reliably detecting the hidden object and target odour. The licensing check is On completion of training the dogs must conducted by senior members of the unit also pass the role specific ISAC test before and is valid for a period of 12 months. being transferred to their operational unit, for example within the Ministry of Defence Police, the or PROTECTION AND MILITARY the Military Provost Guard Service. POLICE DOGS

The breeds most commonly chosen to DATR trains around 130 dogs and train as protection and police dogs are the approximately 300 handlers every year. German Shepherd, Belgian Malinois and The handler training cohort ranges from Dutch Herder, all of which are medium to new personnel who have never handled large breeds and have been recognised to a Military Working Dog before, to trained have protective temperament attributes. personnel returning to the DATR to carry TRAINER, DRUG DETECTION DOGS Protection dogs are deployed to patrol, out specialist courses. DATR is a unit for example, the perimeter of a military where handlers will serve and be trained LCpl Pritchard joined the Army installation or an airfield. In addition, at various points throughout their career. straight from school. She had military police dogs also need to be able It offers a consistent base, ensuring that always been keen to work with to track and search for people and items. handlers are taught the latest handling dogs and was fortunate to and training techniques using the most be selected for basic canine During the initial weeks of protection and up-to-date technology. As the threat to handler training at the DATR. On police dog training, the trainers confirm, UK personnel continues to evolve, so completion of the course she through play with toys, that the dog is do the ways in which Military Working was posted to Germany with 102 motivated and capable of sustaining a Dogs can be used to counter that threat. Squadron, 1 Military Working robust bite. Again this is encouraged DATR is at the forefront of this evolution Dog Regiment. LCpl Pritchard by a process of reward by the trainer and will continue to seek out the most worked in a recruitment role and structured play sessions involving effective way to protect UK personnel and before returning to the DATR activities such as ‘tug-of-war’ to develop assets at home and whilst deployed. as a detection dog trainer. a solid bite. The aim of this play is not to

35 DATR rehoming retiring military working dogs

At any one time, there are around 850 possess. There is no doubt that each increasingly into town and more challenging military working dogs across Defence. team member has the welfare of the dog environments. Their current and future These animals carry out a range of as their number one priority and it is not medical needs are also confirmed. important roles, from protection duties to uncommon for team members to rehome drug and explosive ordnance detection. dogs themselves. Team Leader Claire The MARC team also begin to profile Martin currently has three ex DATR dogs the ideal potential owner. For many of At the end of their career, the majority in her care. It’s an occupational hazard! the dogs, such as the Belgian Malinois, of military working dogs are retired from it is important that owners have the time their unit and are rehomed directly with The first step in the rehoming process is to exercise the dog on a very regular their handler, with whom they may have a comprehensive medical and personality basis. The Malinois breed is very active formed a strong bond over many years. review, which is captured within their and, like most of the retiring dogs, will be This is an ideal outcome, as not only Service Dog Retirement Record. All military used to regular exercise. They are also does it allow the bond to continue, but working dogs have a very detailed service very intelligent dogs,so if left with little the owner is an experienced handler who record that includes a comprehensive stimulation, for even relatively short periods understands the dog and its needs. medical and career history. During of time, they will find ways of entertaining the rehoming process it is important themselves that could include chewing Some dogs will complete their working to evaluate how the animal reacts to a new owner’s furniture and fittings! career at the DATR, where they will take normal civilian environments, many of on roles within the training team, being which may be very new to the dog. This used to train new handlers across all of the can be as simple as a busy street full relevant DATR courses. Once they reach of pedestrians, cycles and buggies; as the point of retirement, it is unlikely that they military working dogs the animals have will be rehomed directly as they have no often operated in busy but specialised dedicated handler and so the responsibility environments, but may never have walked of finding the animals a new, lifelong home down a British high street or have been falls to the Military Working Dog Arrival socialised as a normal domestic pet. and Rehoming Centre (MARC) based at DATR. At any one time the MARC may This initial evaluation isn’t a pass/fail have up to eight dogs under their care. test, but simply a means of recognising what training is required to prepare the Throughout their career the dogs have dog for rehoming. As soon as the dog been trained using positive reward-based has been assessed, a training plan is techniques, so they are very quick to drawn up and the MARC team begin their respond to the encouragement, love and work. Regular environmental walks take positivity that all members of the team place, initially around the barracks but

36 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 So, what is the ideal profile of potential suit each animal. For example, dogs will lasts at least two hours. Many new owners owners? Firstly, they should have initially be exercised on their own, before themselves have a military background but experience with keeping dogs. Retired participating in group environmental equally inquiries from experienced civilian dogs come with the same issues as walks alongside other dogs and handlers; dog owners are welcomed. The day arrives many retired people, including potentially gradually increasing their socialisation for the final visit and the owner and dog complex medical issues that may need to both people and other dogs. leave to begin their new life together. regular, potentially costly, treatment and understanding. Secondly, they must be able Finally, the dog is ready to be rehomed Once the dog is rehomed the work of the to provide the necessary stimulation and and it is time to pair them with potential MARC is done. However, they are always exercise that the dogs require. The home owners. Following the completion of a basic keen to hear stories of the dogs in their new situation should be such that the dogs check list by phone, potential owners are homes, and the rehoming office is lined with are not left on their own for long periods. matched with dogs and are then invited to photographs sent in by owners showing the DATR to be introduced to the animal. the animals enjoying their new lives. The team at MARC will closely monitor This is an opportunity for the potential the dog during the rehoming process. owner to get to know the dog better and As they tackle behavioural issues such understand any specific physical or medical as nervousness around other dogs and needs. It’s also an opportunity for Claire people, or responses to traffic in the urban and the team to get a feel for the suitability and domestic environment. Progress is of the owner for that specific animal. This incremental and takes place at a pace to is just one of several visits and each visit

37 The Clerk of Works (Clk Wks) and Military Plant Foreman (MPF) are at the very centre of the Corps of Royal Engineer’s ability to deliver infrastructure capability within the Field Army.

Drawn from the very best non- commissioned officers, students complete a demanding and challenging two-year technical programme resulting in a range of military and civilian qualifications, before heading back to the Field Army as a newly promoted Staff Sergeant. There are three different disciplines of Clerk of Works: Construction, Mechanical and Electrical. Each has its own specific course structure equipping students with the technical and theoretical knowledge that enables them to perform their new roles in the Field Army.

CLERK OF WORKS (E) ELECTRICAL

CLERK OF WORKS (M) MECHANICAL

CLERK OF WORKS (C) CONSTRUCTION

MILITARY PLANT FOREMAN

All four courses have recently been subject to a major review that resulted in a new Course Operational Performance Statement, defining what is required of students within the Field Army. At the same time the Professional Engineering Wing took the opportunity to identify common elements redesign between the disciplines, enabling shared training sessions to bring cross-disciplinary understanding and collaboration.

Alongside classroom-based courses there are practical elements, site visits, a and degree six-week industrial attachment and a final real-time exercise (Ex LEADING EDGE). The final exercise brings together all four disciplines. Working in syndicates, with appropriate survey and draftsman support, upgrade students are required to develop design solutions to representative infrastructure

38 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 engineering problems, typical of those they will meet when they move to the Field Army. The exercise also allows the students to rotate through the various roles required to complete the task, exposing them to both leadership and technical challenges under pressure.

COURSE QUALIFICATIONS

Military Plant Foreman or Clerk of Works and Royal Engineer Construction (STREs) and Construction Supervision students will be confident, technically Site Safety Advisor (RE CSSA) Cells (CSCs), very similar to civilian competent and have the managerial ability to assess any infrastructure engineering challenge in a land environment. We’ve also Construction Industry Training COURSE DEGREES AWARDED Board, Site Management Safety reviewed the course eligibility requirements Training Scheme (SMSTS) CLERK OF WORKS BEng (Hons) and widened them to allow applications (ELECTRICAL) Electrical Engineering from non-technical trades. The first Construction Skills Certification successful applicant is currently on the Scheme (CSCS) CLERK OF WORKS BEng (Hons) Clerk of Works (Construction) course, Staff (MECHANICAL) Mechanical Engineering Sergeant Dan Hall, a driver by trade.’ Association of Project Management Practitioner (APMP) CLERK OF WORKS BEng (Hons) The development and accreditation of (CONSTRUCTION) Civil Engineering four new honours degrees is a major BEng (Hons) achievement and one that the Professional MILITARY PLANT BEng (Hons) Engineering Wing has been working on FOREMAN Mechanical and over a number of years. Following the Students are awarded civilian qualifications Building Services issue of the Operational Performance on successful completion of the course. Engineering Statement in February 2017 the implications The increasing theoretical and academic of redesigning courses were better knowledge required to meet the growing understood. Work began on the BEng contingency, complexity and risk present multi-capability design consultancies. (Hons) provision in June 2017; a draft in Defence infrastructure has recently Major Rich McClure (Senior Instructor programme was issued in January 2019 and resulted in a move to the award of a Technical Training) commented: ‘My an independent and comprehensive review BEng (Honours) degree, replacing the predecessor, Major Tim Ives, working was carried out resulting in the approval Foundation Degrees awarded previously. alongside Dr Philip Moffitt, drove the new of the BEng (Hons) commencing from The new degrees will be awarded by approach. The philosophy behind the 2020. The 2018 cohort, who will currently the University of Greenwich. The degree courses is to develop an inquiring mind, graduate with Foundation Degrees in programme builds competence in all the ability to research widely, produce September 2020, should be able to register aspects of infrastructure engineering and innovative solutions and the tenacity to for the Honours Degree and complete enables the students to operate in small produce these solutions under adverse an additional two modules to graduate teams: Specialist Teams Royal Engineers conditions. On completion of the course BEng(Hons) in September 2021.

LT COL RICH MARSH MBE, BENG (HONS), MSC, CENG MICE, MINSTRE, CI, PEW

Tp Comd, 32 Engr Regt, 2IC 521 STRE, Water Development, Op TELIC and Kenya Op IODINE, Op TETHYS and a NATO theatre entry planning exercise BEng (Hons), Civil Engineering ICSC(L), FPE Level 3, Cranfield University Ops Offr 20 Fd Sqn, SO2, (SI) FPE, PEW, RSME BGE, 2 MERCIAN and Danish Battle Groups), Op HERRICK 7 OC 53 Fd Sqn, Kenya

2IC 20 Fd Sqn Project ANEMOI, the Falkland Islands

Project Engineer, Professional COS 170 (Infra Sp) Gp Engineer Training course (Civil), Awarded MBE in Dec 19 John Holland, Australia CI PEW, RSME Maj, 2IC UK Wks Gp (Afghanistan)

39 work and record progress in a reflexive log book. This is not simply a recording exercise though. Students must reflect on the work in the context of contemporary issues for society and explore topics such as sustainability, environmental impact, energy and full life-cycle management. Regular communication between the student, the RSME and the student’s unit ensures that the level and type Photograph courtesy of Andy Jones of challenge being worked on meets the demands of the course. It is also Leading on most of the underlying specifications, descriptions and contents, important that the student is allowed work was Lecturer Dr Phil Moffitt who methods of assessment and review.’ the time and opportunities required to commented: ‘Before this new pathway to complete it within the required time. a BEng (Hons) was developed students The review also included external were required to complete a further two factors such as business continuity, the The final module really brings together years, usually through Stafford University, role and importance of engineering to everything that has gone before in the Greenwich University or the Open Defence and its wider role in society. form of an individual project. This is a University. This was often a very complex substantial piece of work that provides the process as each time the learning they The upgrade to BEng (Hons) includes students with the opportunity to exercise had undertaken during their two-year Level 6 modules, two of which will and demonstrate their problem-solving course at the RSME had to be mapped be completed while the student is at abilities and produce innovative and against recognised standards before Chatham. The first of these, common to creative solutions to real-world problems. being accepted. Now students have a all disciplines, is Military Management, The selection of the topic is critical, and course designed to fit in to the demands together with a level 6 course specific to support will be provided to ensure that the of life in the Field Army, complete with the degree specialism. For example, the project is sufficiently demanding and novel. mentoring support from both the Field Clerk of Works (Electrical) will study High Army and the RSME. However, each Voltage Electrical Distribution whereas the It is anticipated that the final report would of the qualifications follows a different Military Plant Foreman will study Highway be suitable for publication, adding to the pathway and the design, creation, Materials Production. The final two Level existing knowledge base of the military validation and accreditation of each 6 modules will be completed once the engineering community and the student of these has been a massive task. student has rejoined the Field Army. will also be expected to present at one of the technical seminars run by the In particular, the accreditation process The first of these final two modules, RSME. Examples of potential projects was very thorough. The accreditation Engineering in Complex Environments, can be found in the table below. team included experts from Greenwich brings together academic and vocational and other independent universities, and knowledge. Students select real-life On completion of the final two modules involved a series of interviews with staff exercises, tasks or projects that they and following successful assessment, and students, including previous cohorts, have personal responsibility for. They then the student will be awarded the as well as a detailed review of the course develop a detailed specification for the appropriate BEng (Hons) Degree.

COURSE SOME TYPICAL EXAMPLES OF PROJECTS

CLERK OF WORKS Through-life carbon analyses Protecting military fuel Computer aided engineering (ELECTRICAL) of high voltage distribution installations at remote sites with applications for modelling on main operating bases lightning density analyses remote earthing systems

CLERK OF WORKS Assessing embodied carbon Building information management 4-D, 5-D, 6-D and 7-D building in deployed military water and on overseas permanent information management (MECHANICAL) sanitation infrastructure joint operating bases for defence airfields

CLERK OF WORKS Designing military accommodation Reducing the carbon footprint Drones for assessing for on-site assembly to reduce of force protection engineering infrastructure battle-damage and (CONSTRUCTION) construction risk to life with self-healing materials environmental contamination

MILITARY PLANT Reducing embodied carbon Electrically powered Monitoring the environmental effects of military roads and earthmoving plant for military of sub-aquifer quarrying activities FOREMAN airfields with geotextiles infrastructure engineering

40 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 The student will be fully supported by mentors from both their operational unit and the RSME with regular communication ensuring that the level and type of project meet the demands of the course. Students also gain access to the RSME Enhanced Learning Environment, where they can access all of the learning materials for their individual programme. This access is lifelong and enables them to continue to access the information from wherever they are in the world once they have rejoined the Field Army. This is just part of the ongoing reachback policy that operates throughout the RSME, allowing Royal Engineers to contact subject matter experts for advice and support throughout their career. As a bonus, students are also registered with the University of Greenwich and can access additional learning resources at the nearby campus throughout their training.

RSME Matters spoke to some of the 2018 Clerk of Works cohort about their experience so far and their thoughts on the additional qualification opportunity.

CLERK OF WORKS (CONSTRUCTION)

Staff Sergeant Dan Hall is no stranger to assessment process saw his place on Chatham as he was the Provost Sergeant, the course confirmed. As one of the more 1 RSME Regiment, in 2016. Search trained, experienced students his advice to others he is a driver by trade and one of the first is to adopt the right mental attitude and students to be accepted onto the Clerk of work hard from day one. He commented, Works course from a non-technical trade. ‘Gaining the academic recognition by He was encouraged to apply based on his the award of an honours degree is a true wide experience and his ability in maths. reflection of the demands of the course.’ Success in the demanding interview and

CLERK OF WORKS (CONSTRUCTION)

Corporal Jake Haines took a more and carried out maintenance tasks while traditional route into the course, being a exercises were being run. Returning to 3 Bricklayer and Concreter by trade. His Squadron he deployed back to Canada interest in the course was sparked by on Ex PRAIRIE STORM 1 and has also fellow Engineers who had also taken the provided support to the Royal Engineer step. With 28 Engineer Regiment, Corporal Troop Commanders final Ex WYLYE Haines had the opportunity to utilise his SAPPER at the RSME. Commenting on the trade skills while on exercises in Kenya Clerk of Works course he said, ‘The maths and the Falkland Islands. He also deployed and science sections have been a real to Canada as a Section Commander for challenge. It just doesn’t slow down! The eight months where he was involved in the potential to gain the BEng (Hons) degree advance preparation of the British Army as part of the course is a real bonus.’ Training Unit Suffield (BATUS) training area

41 CLERK OF WORKS (MECHANICAL)

Sergeant Bijai Shrestha joined as a Gurkha instructor at the Chief Instructor Professional Engineering and followed the Fitter – Air Conditioning and with Army Recruiting in Winchester. Wing, Lieutenant Colonel Rich Marsh, and Refrigeration route. Gaining his summed up, ‘The redesign of these four Commando beret in 2009 he was destined ‘This was my third attempt to get on the key courses has been a tremendous for 24 Commando Engineer Regiment, course. I had to gain additional command success for the team at the Professional but also spent time at the Infantry Training experience before being accepted. I’m Engineering Wing. In particular, the update Centre with 36 Engineer Regiment excited about the opportunities the to the Honours Degrees recognises where he was responsible for training course brings. In particular the potential the increasingly demanding role that the Gurkhas. He has also completed upgrade to the BEng (Hons) degree is the Clerk of Works and Military Plant the Combat Engineering (B1) course, as an excellent development. My longer- Foreman have to perform and the level well as a number of instructor courses. term goal is to complete an MSc in of technical expertise and knowledge ‘The first six months of this course Building Services Management.’ they attain during their course. The has been really hard graft. It’s certainly completion of the final two modules important to get up-to-speed quickly, but All of the Clerk of Works interviewed within their roles in the Field Army brings the instructors are always there when were looking forward to moving together all they have learned with real-life you need them, and the opportunity to to Chilwell within one of the 170 challenges and opportunities, and is a achieve the honours degree at the end Engineer Group Specialist Teams perfect launch pad for their careers.’ of the process makes it all worthwhile.’ Royal Engineers Works Groups.

Sergeant Myles Purchase began his military career with the Rifles as a ‘The first six months of this course reservist, before joining the regular Army on the same Fitter- Air Conditioning has been really hard graft. It’s and Refrigeration course as Sergeant Shrestha. Following his Class 1 course certainly important to get up-to- he deployed to Northern Ireland with 38 Engineer Regiment before returning speed quickly, but the instructors are to Tidworth where he served with 22 and 26 Engineer Regiment. Sergeant always there when you need them’ Purchase also spent some time as an

42 RSME MATTERS ISSUE 20 Project HOBART The future of urban training

With nearly half of the world’s population installation of specially designed buildings possible using off-site facilities at significant living in urban areas, and conflicts up to four stories high. This realistic training cost and potentially limited availability. continuing to ignite, it is inevitable that environment comprises streets, multi-level an increasing number of these conflicts buildings, towers, lift shaft, roof access Major Adam Morley, OC 55 Training Squadron will take place in the urban arena; an and a range of reconfigurable internal commented. ‘Although in its infancy, the often confusing and difficult environment spaces that can become anything from Urban Training Facility added much municipal that demands the highest standards of domestic and retail areas to industrial units. context to the B1 exercise, encouraging soldiering. Enemy forces and civilians are our B1 Sappers and JNCOs to understand, often indistinguishable and the effective Each room can include bespoke training pre-empt and tackle the Sapper challenges deployment of modern weapons obstacles and can be configured to enable which arise in obstructed urban terrain.’ and technology a real challenge. students to practice method of entry techniques, breaching doors and windows One of the next steps being planned is the Like all soldiers, Royal Engineers must be using the full range of operational techniques. deployment of a state-of-the-art Tactical ready to operate across the world, including Engagement Simulation [Laser] (TES-L) in urban environments, which can be as Babcock Urban Training Solutions Manager, system that will be incorporated into the diverse as a small village or a major city. Clive Musson, commented: ‘The Urban facility. The system, which attaches to a In order to do so, Royal Engineer training Training Facility at Gibraltar Barracks will soldier’s weapon and helmet, enables real- must be able to replicate the different types immerse the user in a range of urban time indications of near misses, hits to the of urban areas that may be encountered environments that are realistic, engaging enemy and injuries to the wearer. Not only and also be flexible enough to support the and challenging. In doing so, a wealth of will this system enrich after action reviews wide spectrum of Combat Engineer training data will be generated, which once analysed and deliver savings, but crucially will allow courses that exist. In order to address these can be used to support comprehensive students to experience engineer operations challenges Project HOBART was devised. after-action reviews. This will result in with enemy force activity in a more realistic empowered individuals and groups who can environment than during current exercises Brigadier Peter Rowell, Commandant better understand how to operate within the conducted using blank ammunition. RSME Group, explained the urban environment. This really will be a world reasoning behind the project. class training facility that the RSME and the Looking to the future, the Urban Training British Army can be rightfully proud of.’ Facility will include a range of data “Because it is where most people live, and gathering devices: visual, audio, weaponry, economies are centred, we will almost always One of the first groups to use the facility movement tracking plus wearable devices have to operate in urban environments. Living, was the B1 Combat Engineer course. The such as biometric monitors, all of which moving and fighting in urban environments students occupied the buildings and were will add value to the learning experience. creates some unique challenges that we able to develop their own defence plan, must ensure our combat engineers can meet. including the identification of potential Garry Applin, Babcock Training Support This is why we have established Project fire positions, placement of sand-bags, Manager, added. ‘The RSME Group, working HOBART. It is a programme of work to access denial, vehicle access controls and together with Holdfast, is at the forefront of develop training facilities in both the real and the deployment of Claymore mines and the drive for change. The transformation of simulated worlds. We will use them to deliver razor wire defences. Over the course of the training estate continues, building on the the very best training to the Royal Engineers. the exercise the operational forces threat work that was done to support the Combat We are also keen to explore opportunities for was steadily increased, culminating in a Sapper transformation process. The Urban other organisations to use these facilities.” three-section attack at first light on the Training Facility brings a new capability final day of the exercise, utilising soldiers to the RSME, which itself will develop The first phase of the four-year project from Talavera Troop. Previously exercises over the coming years to ensure engineer is already complete and includes the of this scale and nature have only been training is fit for the challenges ahead.’

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