Desider Color List: None Art Director

June 2016 Issue 96

desthe magazine for defence equipment and support

Progress on new missile for UK's F-35 B:216 mm T:210 mm S:186 mm

THE VALUE OF WORKING TOGETHER TO B:303 mm S:266 mm DELIVER LEADING T:297 mm EDGE CAPABILITY.

In a world where our threats need coalitions to defeat them, so too do we need partnerships between nations and companies to develop battle-winning capability. Northrop Grumman has over 2,200 staff across eleven European nations and key roles in delivering critical capabilities such as NATO AGS, F-35, Sentry AWACS, land-based and airborne radars, laser-based aircraft infrared countermeasures, QE Class aircraft carriers, and full-spectrum cyber, as well as developing new technologies to thwart emerging threats. We may not always be visible, but our technology is all pervasive, as is our commitment to build strong European businesses to serve our customers for the long term.

601 West 26th St. Suite 1120 NY, NY 10001 t:646.230.2020 Project Manager: Vanessa Pineda Document Name: NG-INH-Z30663-A_PD1.indd Element: P4CB - standard Current Date: 9-8-2015 12:46 PM Studio Client: Northrop Grumman Bleed: 216 mm w x 303 mm h Prepress: BP Product: INH Trim: 210 mm w x 297 mm h Proof #: 3-RELEASE Proofreader Creative Tracking: NG-INH-Z30663 Safety: 186 mm w x 266 mm h Print Scale: None Page 1 of 1 Print Producer Billing Job: NG-INH-Z29873 Gutter: None InDesign Version: CC

Title: UK Brand Ad - Desider Color List: None Art Director

Inks: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black Creative Director

Document Path: purpledoor:NG:INH:Z30663:LAYOUT:NG-INH-Z30663-A_PD1.indd Copywriter Font Family: Forza (Black Italic, Medium Italic, Book, Medium, Bold; OpenType) Links: NGINH-29873-004M-v3.tif (Library:Northrop_Grumman:Artwork:NG-INH:NGINH-29873-004M-v3.tif; 109.16%; 274 ppi; Up to Date), NGAER-CORP-2W.ai (Li- Account 1 brary:Northrop_Grumman:Logos:NG-AER:NGAER-CORP-2W.ai; 38.5%; Up to Date) Account 2 B:216 mm T:210 mm S:186 mm

cover image

FOREWORD CGI of F35 firing a SPEAR missile By Tony Douglas, CEO (cover image - MBDA)

wanted to start this month by saying well done to all those recognised at my first Chief Executive Officer Commendation Awards in London at the beginning of last month. desider IAlmost 200 people attended and in total there were 10 individuals and 20 teams that I had the great pleasure of presenting with awards www.gov.uk/government/publications/desider-2016 for their remarkable contributions to the success of DE&S. THE VALUE OF It was a humbling experience being in a position where I could meet and congratulate them all on their extraordinary work. It was WORKING Editor: recognition that was richly deserved and I offer my sincere thanks to Tom Morris - 9352 37888 or 0117 9137888 each and every one of them for their efforts. TOGETHER TO [email protected] While we continue to meet key milestones across the business I B:303 mm S:266 mm DELIVER LEADING T:297 mm Reporters: want to take a moment to recognise the monumental achievement of Laura Martin Plaza, Hazel Stanley, Tom Knight and DE&S employee Sarah Cole. EDGE CAPABILITY. Hannah Carolin Sarah, a submarine naval architect in the Naval Authority Group, is the first civil servant to have become a qualified submariner after Photography and Design: spending three months on board a nuclear powered ballistic missile In a world where our threats need Andrew Linnett, Ed Low, Paul Griffin and Mark submarine as part of Operation Relentless. Hawke coalitions to defeat them, so too do I have been told it takes a truly remarkable person to be able to Distribution Manager: go to sea on board a submarine and deal with all the challenges we need partnerships between nations Dick Naughton - 9352 34342 or 0117 9134342 involved. DES [email protected] The enormity of Sarah’s achievement cannot be underestimated and companies to develop battle-winning and I am sure the whole organisation joins me in offering our wholehearted congratulations. capability. Northrop Grumman has over Advertising: Andrew Dodds – Zinc Media, 13th Floor, Portland Sarah’s story is again just one of several great news stories coming 2,200 staff across eleven European nations House, Bressenden Place, London SW1E 5BH from DE&S this month. Tel: +44 (0)20 7657 1832 In February we announced the award of a £1.1 billion contract for and key roles in delivering critical capabilities fixed wing training, which will prepare future aircrew to fly aircraft [email protected] such as Atlas, Voyager, Typhoon and Lightning II. such as NATO AGS, F-35, Sentry AWACS, And now, just three months on, a new contract worth around the land-based and airborne radars, laser-based same amount has been awarded to UK industry to supply rotary Printing: wing training to the Armed Forces. aircraft infrared countermeasures, QE Class The award means all four core training elements within UKMFTS, which cover training for rotary wing, fixed wing, fast jet and rear aircraft carriers, and full-spectrum cyber, as crew, are now under contract with Ascent Flight Training with a total value of £2.8 billion, and brings the number of UK jobs sustained to well as developing new technologies to thwart desider is distributed free to DE&S employees and the equipment capability organisations. Copies may be 500. emerging threats. We may not always be visible, sent to readers outside MOD, including in the defence We also awarded a £411 million contract to develop a new long range missile – Spear 3 - for the UK’s future F-35B supersonic stealth but our technology is all pervasive, as is our industries and is published on the world wide web via GOV.UK. While the editor takes care to ensure all material aircraft. commitment to build strong European businesses produced is accurate, no liability can be accepted for In doing so we have secured around 350 highly skilled missile errors or omissions. Views expressed in desider, and engineering jobs across MBDA’s sites in Stevenage, Bristol and to serve our customers for the long term. products and services advertised, are not necessarily Lostock, with an equivalent number of jobs in the wider supply endorsed by DE&S or the MOD. All editorial submissions chain. must be cleared by the relevant MOD authorities with In addition to this we secured a £17 million contract with content for advertorials to be cleared by the relevant MOD Lockheed Martin Integrated Systems UK to fit more than 30 Royal project team before publication. Navy ships, submarines and shore facilities with a new state-of-the- art navigation system with highly accurate sensors and the latest fibre © Crown Copyright optic technology. The first surface ships will receive the new Navigation Compass system in early 2017, with work to begin fitting it to the submarines This magazine is produced on Cocoon Silk 90gsm which contains 50 per cent recycled later that year. and de-inked pulp from post consumer ©2015 Northrop Grumman Corporation www.northropgrumman.com/europe waste and Forest Stewardship Council certified material from well-managed forests.

desider June 2016 3

Title: UK Brand Ad - Desider Color List: None Art Director

Inks: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black Creative Director

06 Barry Burton, Director Corporate Affairs, talks about his career in defence, his roles in transforming DE&S, our people, and his taste for jazzy ties.

NEWS

08 Spear 3: Contract worth £411 million will see new missile developed for UK’s future F-35B Lightning II supersonic stealth aircraft

12 Welcome: Air Marshal Julian Young tells Desider why he is looking forward to the challenges ahead after being appointed Chief of Materiel (Air) 22

14 Fantastic Four: All core training elements within the UK Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS) in place after latest contract award for rotary wing training

16 Sound effort: New hearing protection system for the British Army is delivered three months ahead of schedule

18 New Search and Rescue and Support Helicopter service established on the Falkland Islands thanks to DE&S

19 Strengthening international relations: Combat 24 Vehicle Reconnaissance Tracked vehicles delivered to Latvian Ministry of Defence

22 On course for a brighter future: DE&S FEATURES secures £17 million contract to fit Royal Navy ships, submarines and shore 20 Project Claustrum: Desider learns about facilities with a new state-of-the-art an initiative where prisoners build their self navigation system esteem by helping manufacture products for the Armed Forces giving them the confidence 24 A big congratulations: CEO to turn their back on crime Commendations presented in London with Tony Douglas praising 28 Desider visited the Defence Academy and the “incredible work” by teams and interim Defence Simulation Centre to highlight individuals at DE&S the huge catalogue of 3D models and terrains available for virtual training

4 desider June 2016 REGULARS

30 First person - Keith Woodbridge, Safety Team Leader for the Fast Air Support Team, discusses Transformation, reducing the potential for harm, and his love of practicing Tae Kwon Do with his two teenage daughters

32 Jobs - Desider’s latest recruitment pages

36 60 Second spotlight – Commercial officer Andrew Montgomery on helping to keep the Red Arrows flying, rock climbing and an unusual memory trick 2016 37 DE&S People – Sub-stantial success: Sarah Cole becomes the first female civil servant to qualify as a submariner JUNE

39 DE&S People – Meet the new Padre: Rev Andrew Jones has been appointed as the new Chaplain to MOD Abbey Wood

18 Picture: ChrisPicture: Locke Inside

desider June 2016 5 SENIOR LEADER COMMENT

Barry Burton, Director Corporate Affairs, talks to Desider about his career, his roles in transforming DE&S, our people, and his taste for jazzy ties

Every single“ one of our 120 people in Corporate Affairs has a real flavour of intent, and endeavours to deliver for our customers and defend the taxpayer Barry Burton ” Picture: Andrew Linnett Andrew Picture:

aving worked for the MOD for over the colleagues I work with, operate in the worked tirelessly with external contractors 35 years I am now on my 19th job background, so if all is going well you would over the last few months to clean the buildings, and in that time I have been “lucky” be forgiven for not knowing we’re there. When lay new paths and erect new cycle racks and Henough to tackle a wide range of very different something does go wrong though it becomes seating. roles! In Washington DC, Baghdad, London, very noticeable, very quickly; if we give the It may seem trivial but the visible changes Andover, Wilton, Upavon, Bath and Bristol the wrong advice to Ministers or we fail to address have made a substantial improvement to the opportunity for another challenge has, so far, a security problem there is nowhere to hide. working environment. Since I first stepped foot always been there; lucky indeed. I have a real passion for DE&S and what we on the site 10 years ago the exterior has never Variety has been an important feature for all collectively get done. I led the secretariat been cleaned! me. From operations policy to private offices, and communications teams when DE&S was Every single one of our 120 people in from exports to finance, from commercial created in 2007 and was delighted to have the Corporate Affairs has a real flavour of intent, to HR, from project management to leading chance to come back to lead the next phase of and endeavours to deliver for our customers change; the opportunity to learn new things change as the Mat Strat Programme Director. and defend the taxpayer. and acquire new skills (I hope) has been really That role was one of the toughest I have done Through DE&S transformation, I look important. but in two years we created the opportunity forward to recognising some of the unsung In my last few jobs change has been for us to change DE&S fundamentally; the hero roles in Corporate Affairs, and the wider a constant thread; SDSR in the Defence bespoke status and freedom to operate we won Corporate Services function for which I am Secretary’s office, detention policy in the underpins the way we are changing today. the executive sponsor. Operations Directorate, and of course more Since joining the MOD from school (as The corporate services function is one of recently the Materiel Strategy here in DE&S. what was then an Executive Officer – now 11 functions in our new balanced matrix and Now, as Director Corporate Affairs and Band D) I have been a Civil Servant and encompasses 900 DE&S staff at the core of the Head of Establishment for Abbey Wood, I have proud of it. The MOD has provided training, business, across Corporate Affairs and business a role that is as varied and colourful as my taste education and development alongside personal management. in ties! challenge and I hope that in turn I have made It is easy to understand and appreciate the On any given day I might need to deal with a contribution to defence outputs. As part role that our engineers and project managers infrastructure, security, policy, secretariat, of my attempt to pay back part of this debt I play in delivering the programme, but through governance and board support, and if that am serving as a Trustee for the Civil Service transformation, I hope that we can increase isn’t enough we can always find a leaky roof or Charity, which provides a fantastic range the value placed on staff within Corporate blocked drain in Abbey Wood that generates a of support to service and ex-Civil Service Services, and develop their skills. phone call. colleagues. They are vital to the function of DE&S and I regularly describe Corporate Affairs as Recently I’ve taken great satisfaction from continuing to deliver the best for our Armed the glue that, at the centre, holds DE&S as a the visible improvements we have made to the Forces and the taxpayer. Bespoke Trading Entity together and I, and Abbey Wood site. The infrastructure team have

6 desider June 2016 The technology of defence

Smarter, stealthier – Taranis is setting new standards in unmanned aircraft. Advances in technology that give our customers the edge.

www.baesystems.com NEWS

Contract to develop new missile for F-35B

Above: Philip Dunne, Minister for Defence Procurement (right) and Dave Armstrong, Managing Director MBDA UK

he DE&S Air Dominance and Defence Minister Philip Dunne, was a very pleasing result as all trial Suppression project team has said: “This contract will give UK pilots objectives were achieved, including safe awarded a £411 million contract a state-of-the-art British designed separation, wing and fin deployment Tto develop a new missile for the UK’s weapon to be used on board our and turbojet initiation and flight. This future F-35B Lightning II supersonic next-generation F-35B jets, with the has helped to significantly de-risk the stealth aircraft. precision and punch that we need to missile going into the next phase.”

The contract secures around 350 give decisive operational advantage The £411 million contract award

highly skilled missile engineering over our adversaries and keep Britain follows an initial £150 million jobs across MBDA’s sites in Stevenage, safe. assessment phase and, if successful, it is Bristol and Lostock, with an equivalent “This investment is good news not expected that Spear 3 will enter service” number of jobs in the wider supply only for our pilots, but also for UK in the mid-2020s. chain, and will draw on engineering industry, safeguarding 350 highly and manufacturing expertise from skilled missile engineering jobs across companies across the UK. MBDA’s sites in Stevenage, Bristol and SPEAR 3 is from the same family Lostock, and an equivalent number of weapons as Brimstone, currently of jobs in the wider supply chain. being used by the RAF to combat It has been made possible by this Daesh in Syria and Iraq, but contains Government’s £178 billion commitment This was a very pleasing result as a multi-effects warhead that engages a to the very best equipment for our wider target set and has a significantly Armed Forces and by our growing all trial objectives were achieved, increased range. Defence budget.” The contract, with MBDA, will Although the SPEAR 3 airframe is including safe separation, wing enable four years of critical design and similar to that of Brimstone, it uses development work which will tailor an innovative turbojet engine rather and fin deployment and turbojet the weapon for use within the internal than a traditional rocket motor, giving weapons bay of F-35B, the world’s most it a range of more than 60 miles. initiation and flight advanced combat aircraft. The weapon recently undertook an It is being designed specifically for ambitious and successful Typhoon Lee Fowell, SPEAR Cap 3 Programme Manager F-35B Lightning II operations launched launched firing trial at the MOD from HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Aberporth range. Prince of Wales, the Royal Navy’s two Lee Fowell, SPEAR Cap 3 aircraft carriers. Programme Manager, said: “This ”

8 desider June 2016 A POWERFUL TEAM.

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Untitled-4 1 17/03/2016 09:37 NEWS NEWS IN BRIEF

Little and large: A F35B Lightning II fighter jet takes part in Air to Air Refuelling (AAR) trials in April. The RAF deployed a Voyager aircraft to US Naval Air Station Patuxent River to assist. The much anticipated fighter aircraft will make its UK debut in July at the Royal International Air Tattoo and Farnborough International Air Show.

NEW DE&S DG COBRA PLUS COMMERCIAL sector career Nick also had a 19 year career in the Army during which time he held an number of HEAD SYSTEM leadership positions and worked A Canadian company officially opened their Bristol in joint environments at PJHQ that develops and delivers facility last month with DE&S and the MOD. purpose-built protective soldier Director Land Equipment Major Tony Douglas, DE&S Chief equipment for military and law General Robert Talbot Rice in Executive Officer, said: “I am enforcement use worldwide has attendance. very pleased to welcome Nick opened a facility in Bristol. Peter S Rafferty MBE, Revision Elliott to this important senior DE&S secured a contract with Military (UK) Ltd President leadership and delivery role Revision Military to provide their Brigadier (Retd), said: “The UK in Defence, Equipment and Cobra Plus Head System as the is and will always be a priority Support. He brings with him new helmet and facial protection for Revision and these first steps a wealth of personal skills, system for UK Soldiers as part of in establishing our Landed Nick Elliot has been appointed experience and business acumen the VIRTUS Programme. Subsidiary, Revision Military DE&S Director General attained through a varied career The company, which employs (UK) Limited, demonstrates our Commercial following the in the Army and private sector, to more than 440 people in Canada, commitment to the UK now and departure of Susanna Mason. lead the commercial function in America, and Luxembourg, in the years to come.” DE&S Chief Executive, delivering our £178bn equipment Tony Douglas announced the programme, one of the most appointment to his executive complex and demanding team last month. portfolios across government.” Nick will be joining DE&S Tony is grateful to Morag from Network Rail where he has Stuart for covering the role in been the Managing Director of the interim and is delighted their National Supply Chain. she is staying as part of the As well as an impressive private Commercial team.

10 desider June 2016 NEWS

DEFENCE BOARD VISIT NEWS IN BRIEF The Defence Board met at Abbey Wood last month. Secretary of State for Defence Michael Fallon, Minister for Defence Procurement Philip Dunne, Permanent Secretary Stephen Lovegrove, Chief of the Defence Staff General Sir Nicholas Houghton and the rest of the Board visited the Bristol site and discussed key issues affecting Defence including the nuclear enterprise. The Board also discussed Defence’s priorities for 2016 and answered a range of staff questions at a THE Town Hall (see intranet for full report). DE&S SAFETY IS PARAMOUNT WAY The flagship biennial An all staff Safety Day will be and help contribute to improving The CEO, Tony Douglas, Environmental and Safety held on all DE&S main sites in the safety culture within DE&S. launched The DE&S Way last Assurance Symposium (ESAS) tandem with the second day of For more information on ESAS month, a document which which is attended by more than the Symposium. A range of safety visit www.esas2016.co.uk sets out the ways of working 500 people from the MOD, related activities will be available in DE&S and outlines how industry and academia, will be on the day to choose from. All the organisation delivers its held at Abbey Wood on June 22 staff are encouraged to take time comprehensive programme of and 23. out of their day to get involved work. The DE&S Way is designed to mean something to everyone in the organisation – new joiners agreed since the UK Ministry and existing members of staff. It of Defence (MOD) announced a outlines what’s important to the £472 million contract extension delivery of business, including TYPE 26 DIESEL to progress the programme in the processes and behaviours March. that everyone in DE&S will Geoff Searle, Type 26 be expected to embody as the GENERATORS Programme Director at BAE transformation programme BAE Systems has awarded an 20-cylinder MTU Series 4000 Systems, said: “We are pushing progresses. equipment contract to Rolls- engines, which will provide a forward innovation in the way Royce to manufacture diesel low-emission solution to the we design and manufacture generators for the first three Type ships’ electrical supply and slow warships, harnessing new 26 anti-submarine warfare ships speed propulsion. Each generator technologies and processes to for the Royal Navy. set will deliver enough to power make sure we can deliver cutting- Each world-class Type 26 around 6,000 homes. edge solutions to meet the Royal ship will require four of the This is the first Type 26 Navy’s requirements.” MTU diesel generators based on manufacturing contract to be

AJAX MAKES TRACKS A multimillion contract to supply parts for tradition of providing track for British the British Army’s future fleet of Armoured armoured vehicles, having done so since the Fighting Vehicles – Ajax – has been awarded Second World War. This contract follows to Cook Defence Systems. on from the £70 million I announced when The company will supply the track system I visited William Cook group last year. It for Ajax, which will be one of the most is part of our £178 billion equipment plan, advanced armoured vehicles in the world backed by a growing Defence budget.” when it comes into service in 2019. William Cook, General Manager, The 589 Ajax vehicles are being delivered said: “We won this contract despite stiff by General Dynamics Land Systems-UK. international competition. I am pleased Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said: that we can help deliver the very best for the “This company has a long and proud British.”

desider June 2016 11 NEWS

New CoM Air ready for the challenge Picture: David Tucker David Picture:

ast month Air Marshal Julian am destined to be a part of some Young took up the position of momentous milestones, including Chief of Materiel (Air) after 15 the delivery of our first new P-8A What keeps me at Lmonths as Director Helicopters. He Poseidon aircraft and our first F-35 “ told Desider about his pathway to Lightning II squadron will begin DE&S: the desire to Above: DE&S and why he is excited by the operations from RAF Marham. AM Julian Young challenges of his new role. “That’s what keeps me at DE&S: the make what we have desire to make what we have better. better Air Marshal Young joined the Having spent so long on the front line, Royal Air Force in 1980, spending it is not that what we have is not good AM Julian Young the majority of his time since in the enough, but it could always be better.” front line using the equipment and Julian is also passionate about services which DE&S delivers, and helping staff develop their careers. managing change of technical-trade “I am excited when people grow, deploy, retain and transition engineers and organisational structures. flourish and deliver in a way they and technicians in an improved way He has also spent time at the never thought they could.” that benefits Defence” and UK plc.” Defence Logistics Organisation (DLO) “All that often is needed is a bit Aside from his ambitions, Julian and DE&S, re-joining in December of encouragement and away they recognises that the Air Domain is in 2012 as Director Technical, which he go. Unlike equipment projects, with good shape thanks to his predecessor, enjoyed enormously, before taking up people you can make a difference Air Marshal Sir Simon Bollom, a man his “dream come true” role as Director within weeks and months, and helping and friend he greatly respects. Helicopters in February 2015. to develop people for me is a passion.” “Right now, it is steady as she goes,” “For my first eight years in the In his new role, Julian re-joins the he said. RAF I worked with helicopters, and DE&S Executive Committee, having “Over the next few weeks and served on four helicopter squadrons previously inputted as Director months I shall be taking stock of across Chinook, Puma, Sea King and Technical. He also joins the Air Force where we are, respond to inevitable Gazelle”, Julian said. Board as Air Member for Materiel and defence business requirements as I go, “Going back to helicopters was a now serves as the Chief Engineer of and learn as much as I can about the sheer delight, and something that the RAF. portfolio and our people, and of course I never thought I would have the He said: “It is a great honour to re- to meet transformational change in opportunity to do.” join the DE&S Executive Committee DE&S.” With his CV, there are few others as a full member and to sit on the Air “Meanwhile, my job in the months in a better position to sit at the top of Force Board, which I have invested 36 and years to come is to support and his branch, overseeing delivery of key years of my life in. care for people in the Air Domain, acquisition projects to the front line. “As the Defence Engineering and to remove the obstacles that are “I am excited to deliver equipment Champion, a ‘secondary duty’ that hampering positive change towards and support, and influence the future I was appointed to by the Defence smoother delivery, making DE&S of the RAF”, he said. Board in 2015, I also look forward to ‘match fit,’ and beyond.” “There is so much going on. working with all of the four Services Over the next three years or so I to encourage them to attract, train,

12 desider June 2016 QinetiQ.com

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1568 Desider 06_15 adverts PR.indd 1 15/05/2015 17:06 NEWS Rotary wing training for UK Armed Forces

new contract worth in the the elements of the holistic training “I applaud the outstanding work region of £1.1 billion has been system now under contract. of all my personnel who are involved awarded by the Ministry of “We are a fairly small team and in turning the innovative plans for ADefence (MOD) to UK industry to I must pay tribute to the fantastic the future of flying training under supply rotary wing training to the effort everyone has put in to what has UKMFTS into a reality.” Armed Forces. been an extremely complex process DE&S CEO Tony Douglas said: The contract, awarded to Ascent to get to these contract awards whilst “This contract will provide world- Flight Training, will pave the way for maintaining the existing output. It is leading facilities for aircrew training the design, delivery and management always at the forefront of our minds in the use of our advanced aircraft of a new military helicopter aircrew that we are responsible for delivering such as Apache, Chinook, Merlin and training service until the early 2030s. the best possible training and Wildcat. It will see the delivery of Airbus equipment to the Armed Forces.” “The success of the UKMFTS H135 and H145 training aircraft, and Under the new contract, aircrew Programme demonstrates how the install new infrastructure and ground- across the three Services will continue MOD, through DE&S, can create a based equipment at RAF Shawbury in to conduct their basic and advanced positive and innovative partnership Shropshire to train future aircrew to rotary training at RAF Shawbury with industry to deliver real, tangible use aircraft such as Apache, Chinook, (with regular detachments at Army results, both commercially and for our Merlin and Wildcat. Air Corps Middle Wallop). Aircrew Armed Forces.” The contract will also support a selected for training in mountain and Ascent, selected as the MOD’s further 220 jobs, on top of the 280 maritime helicopter operations will flying training partner in 2008, are already supported by the UK Military receive instruction at RAF Valley. contracted to deliver instruction, Flying Training System (UKMFTS). Air Cdre David Bentley, Director infrastructure and support required to The award means all four core of Flying Training for 22 (Training) provide military flying training across training elements within UKMFTS, Group, responsible for implementing the three Armed Services until 2033. which cover training for rotary wing, the training, said: “I and all of my Paul Livingston, managing director fixed wing, fast jet and rear crew, are personnel fully embrace this exciting of Ascent, said: “UKMFTS is a now under contract with Ascent Flight and pioneering partnership, which unique partnership between industry, Training with a total value of £2.8 will provide the UK Armed Forces Defence and DE&S. There have been billion. with cutting-edge aircrew training and continue to be so many exciting Nick Moore, UKMFTS deputy that will optimise their readiness for challenges and I am both honoured head for DE&S said: “It is incredibly operational flying and thus protecting and privileged to be supporting the exciting to get to this point with all and serving the nation. Armed Forces.”

This contract“ will provide world-leading facilities for aircrew training in the use of our advanced aircraft such as Apache, Chinook, Merlin and Wildcat DE&S CEO Tony Douglas

Above: Members of the UKMFTS Team outside Bldg 1300, Bristol, including UKMFTS ” head for DE&S Richard Murray (centre front) and his deputy Nick Moore (on his right)

14 desider June 2016 T&E begins here

All images©MOD Crown Copyright

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LTPA advert 15062015.indd 1 15/06/2015 16:43 NEWS Abbott Risk Consulting Ltd ARC are a FATS/ STS approved supplier for all Safety New Army hearing and System Safety Technical Services in the Land, Sea and protection system in Air environments, including: • System Safety Risk service ahead of schedule Assessment he DE&S Soldier Training and and a control unit which houses the Marlborough Communications and • System Safety Special Programmes (STSP) team electronics for situational awareness INVISIO. Thave achieved a key milestone and impulse noise protection. Achieving such a key milestone so Management with the delivery of a new hearing Allan Aird, Head of the Command early in the programme is testament to • Independent Safety protection system for the British Army and Battlespace Management Project the hard work and dedication of both three months ahead of schedule. Team added: “The INVISIO S10 is a teams in delivering such a key piece of Audit Provided by Surrey-based brand-new hearing protection and equipment to the user.” • Safety Hazard Marlborough Communications situational awareness capability The contract will also provide Below: SSgt Limited, the INVISIO S10 system for soldiers specifically in the close support for the next four years, with Wellington Gazi, Analysis will further improve mission success combat role. the option of a three year extension. from the STSP with enhanced communications and “This fantastic achievement has team, wearing • Safety Cases situational awareness. been enabled by a close working the new hearing It is also more comfortable to use relationship fostered between STSP, protection system in operations while helping protect the hearing of personnel in high noise environments, such as in tracked vehicles or on air platforms. The new system provides two- way, crystal clear communications in both ears when transmitting and receiving radio traffic, allowing greater situational awareness irrespective of the surrounding noise. Major General Robert Talbot Rice, Director Land Equipment, said: “The INVISIO S10 hearing protection system will deliver a key capability for the Armed Forces, providing first rate situational awareness and better prevents hearing damage to personnel on operations whilst offering more comfort. “Reaching the in service date three months ahead of schedule is a major milestone in the programme and the direct result of DE&S and industry’s hard work.” INVISIO S10 is comprised of an in-ear hearing protection headset Established in 2002, Abbott Risk Consulting (ARC) Ltd has grown consistently to become the UK’s largest independent safety consultancy servicing the Defence and Nuclear industries Reaching“ the in service date three months ahead of schedule is a major Visit our stand at ESAS 2016 on 22nd - 23rd June at Abbey Wood milestone in the Or for more information, please visit www.consultarc.com

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” Picture: David Tucker 16 desider June 2016 Abbott Risk Consulting Ltd ARC are a FATS/ STS approved supplier for all Safety and System Safety Technical Services in the Land, Sea and Air environments, including: • System Safety Risk Assessment • System Safety Management • Independent Safety Audit • Safety Hazard Analysis • Safety Cases

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Falkland Islands Search and Rescue Service commences he DE&S Special Projects remote location in which the service is Islands after almost 34 years. Multi Air Platforms (SPMAP) being provided and that it represents Commodore Darren Bone, project team have established the first ever certified AW189 Commander British Forces South Ta new Search and Rescue (SAR) and operation.” Atlantic Islands said: “The delivery of Support Helicopter (SH) service on the Team AAR, which incorporates a civilian SAR and SH service, exactly Falkland Islands. sub-contractors British International as scheduled, represents a fantastic At noon on March 31, the service Helicopters and Air Rescue Systems achievement. The fact that it has been commenced operations at Mount along with AAR Airlift Group, have delivered in the Falkland Islands, Pleasant Complex, marking the start established a robust service within a the UK’s most distant Permanent of a 10 year civilian helicopter service challenging timeframe set by the out Joint Operating Base, is quite simply in the Islands. of service date of the Sea King. remarkable. The £180 million contract, placed Steve Harrison, President of AAR “Whilst the closure of the last with AAR Airlift Group in January Airlift Group, said: “Team AAR is military SAR flight represents the end 2015, will deliver two helicopter committed to providing a reliable, of an era, I am confident that the AAR capabilities to British Forces South quality SAR service that maintains service will continue the phenomenal Atlantic Islands. the standards of the Royal Air Force, record that the RAF has delivered over Two brand new AW189 helicopters as well as continued excellence for the years.” will deliver a 24 hour, seven days a the commercial support helicopter week, 365 days a year SAR capability, services.” replacing the RAF Sea King SAR Team AAR recruited over 30 service. personnel including pilots, rear crew, The SH capability, delivered using engineers and operations staff. These two Sikorsky S-61 helicopters, will recruits completed comprehensive provide essential support through training programmes, which included transporting personnel and equipment training in Italy, Aberdeen, Newquay around the Islands. and the Falkland Islands, to ensure a DE&S Director Helicopters Ian high standard of service is delivered. Craddock said: “This is a huge The new service commenced achievement by SPMAP project team following a formal handover ceremony of the Helicopters Operating Centre. It in the Falklands capital Stanley, in has worked closely with Defence and front of several hundred people, to industry stakeholders to oversee the commemorate the end of Military SAR establishment of a new SAR service and establishment of the new service. on time and in only 14 months from A sunset ceremony held later at Contract Award. Mount Pleasant Complex marked the “This is more remarkable given the end of Military SAR operations in the

Above: Sikorsky S-61 Support Helicopter (foreground) and Finmecanica AW189 Search and Rescue Helicopter (background) Below: Commander British Forces South Atlantic Islands, Cdre Darren Bone, marks the commencement of the service with 1564Flt and Team AAR personnel Pictures: Cpl Ellona Marriott Ellona Cpl Pictures:

18 desider June 2016 NEWS

CVR(T) vehicles delivered to the Republic of Latvia he first Base Overhauled (BoH) UK MOD and Latvian MOD for the delivered, which has come from Combat Vehicle Reconnaissance purchase of 123 CVR(T) vehicles. successful joint collaborative working Tracked (CVR (T)) vehicles These include Spartan, Scimitar, between the DSA & AVP project Thave been delivered to the Republic Sultan, Samson and Samaritan, teams, our partners at Babcock DSG, of Latvia Ministry of Defence (MOD) together with complete equipment BAE Systems and the Latvian MOD. thanks to DE&S. schedule kits, spares and special tools, “Everyone has worked very hard The DE&S Disposal Services and test equipment tooling. and long hours to be able to deliver Authority (DSA) and Armoured Babcock DSG will complete 116 these vehicles on time for official Vehicles Programme (AVP) delivered BoH vehicles enabling the Latvian handover to Latvia. Being able to help the vehicles as part of a four year, £37.9 MOD to take collection of fully support international relations and to million project to assist Latvia develop refurbished assets. These vehicles further the Latvian Armed Forces is its armoured capability. are expected to enable the Latvian a great honour and I look forward to Latvia officially collected their first army to better transport infantry, many more successful deliveries in the vehicles from MOD Donnington reconnaissance teams, air defence near future.” on April 28, which included seven sections and mortar fire controllers Spartans and three training vehicles. whilst also providing vital battlefield This is a significant milestone within capabilities including ambulances, the CVR(T) project and subsequent armoured command vehicles and deliveries are planned until project armoured recovery vehicles. completion in September 19. In closing this sale, the DSA is on The vehicles will be used by Latvia target to achieve its key objectives of: for up-scaling their Armed Forces and disposing of surplus equipment in for joint forces’ exercises with NATO. an environmentally friendly manner They have previously been used on whilst providing a receipt to the Army operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Front Line Command, providing Iraq and Afghanistan, and were business opportunity to UK industry declared as surplus to requirements. and supporting defence engagement Following marketing and then between the UK and Latvia. detailed engagements between Gavin Burns, CVR(T) Latvia the DSA and the Latvian MOD, a Project Manager for DE&S Disposals Above: From L to R - Capt Andzejs Zarakovskis (Latvian Government to Government Sales Services Authority, said: “I am Army), Russ Evans (Babcock DSG), Steve Slack (Latvia Project Agreement was signed at the NATO delighted that the first batch of Base Manager, AVP, DE&S), Jelena Zubenkova-Birzniece (Latvian Summit in September 14, between the Overhauled Vehicles have been MOD), Lee Nicholls (Team Leader, Capital Equipment Sales, DSA, DE&S), Gavin Burns (Latvia Project Manager, DSA, DE&S)

desider June 2016 19 FEATURE

A small project which is starting to make a big difference Hundreds of prisoners are building skills and confidence to aid their prospects of employment on release by manufacturing equipment on behalf of DE&S for the Armed Forces. At the same time it is saving the Ministry of Defence significant sums of money. Desider found out more about Project Claustrum

Left: Handover of first Fibre-optic Repair tool kit to Royal Signals at HMP Ford (near Arundel)

n the coming months around 50 offenders – part of the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) – that Other work being undertaken by prisoners at Lindholme prison, near Doncaster, will in turn identifies prisons able to undertake for the MOD includes the preparation start the refurbishment of a large number the work. and repair of toolkits and the recycling of Iof Demountable Rack Offload and Pickup Both parties work together to deliver serviceable tools at HMP Ford (Arundel). System (DROPS) flat racks – a project that mutual benefits to the UK taxpayer, both in An increasing range of jacks is also being will generate millions of pounds worth of terms of savings to the MOD and reducing repaired at HMP Portland – jacks that were savings to the MOD. the risk of reoffending upon release. Evidence previously deemed Beyond Economic Repair Elsewhere, in a number of prisons across shows having sustainable work on release – and saving the MOD 50 per cent compared England and Wales, more than 900 offenders significantly reduces reoffending; the work to buying new. will begin to manufacture a range of provided by the MOD supports efforts by Another example is for the provision of camouflage nets used for the Armed Forces prisons and prison staff to gain offenders such textile products which commenced with – gaining meaningful employment in work employment opportunities. sandbags last year, with camouflage nets previously carried out in the Far East. Since its launch only 15 months ago, DE&S and small canvas products soon to be added, These are two of the latest of several is already the biggest external customer of leading to the manufacture and repair of initiatives organised through Project ONE3ONE Solutions. In the next few months heavy canvas covers later this year. Claustrum (Latin for prison), a collaboration Project Claustrum will provide work for more Diana Allpress, from Operational Support between the OIP Team of DE&S which than 1,000 prisoners of the prison population Programmes (OSP) in the Land Operating identifies the need and ONE3ONE Solutions that currently stands at around 86,000. Centre, manages Project Claustrum from the

20 desider June 2016 FEATURE

DE&S perspective. She said: “Claustrum is an innovative project, bringing benefits to both the MOD and the MOJ, with an additional social dimension. Everyone benefits: the MOD receives quality equipment at lower prices, the MOJ gets real work to fill prison workshops, offenders gain skills and a work ethic to help reduce reoffending. Taxpayers’ money is put to maximum use. “Through Claustrum I’ve seen for myself that a lot of people end up in prison due to a lack of education, family support or by making a stupid mistake. With the right support and training many of them can go on to lead worthwhile lives. I’m proud that Claustrum can play a part in this rehabilitation.” Lieutenant General Paul Jaques, Chief of Materiel Land at DE&S, has already voiced his support and passion for the project. “This highly novel but commercially- focused venture is shaping up to deliver enduring worthwhile benefits to the United Kingdom as a whole,” he said. Above: Offenders working on tool kits In addition to the obvious financial benefits in the past for being a “win-win situation” for Typhoon at HMP Ford it has also been found that the regular work that has “significant benefits” for both the provided by the MOD is valued by prisoners MOD, in terms of cost savings, and the MOJ who understand their efforts are ‘supporting by helping it meet its goal of reducing re- The Claustrum team are always the Armed Forces’. Often this can be the first offending. seeking new products that might be step in engaging with the support offered in Andrew Selous MP, Minister for added to the Claustrum portfolio. If prisons in rehabilitation. Prisons added: “It is only through better you wish to discuss this project, or A prisoner, who previously served in the rehabilitation that we will reduce reoffending, to get more involved, please contact Royal Marines Commandos, is working in cut crime and make our streets safer, and Diana Allpress on: the MOD flat racks. He gave his views. equipping men and women in custody “I know how important the restoration of with the right skills is key to helping them ABW Mil 9679 Ext 80561 or this equipment is to the logistics within the into sustained employment on release. It armed services,” he said. is important that the Government sets an Civilian Telephone 030 679 80561 “I am also fully trained in operating the example and Project Claustrum is evidence vehicles which use them. I think the work that partnering ONE3ONE Solutions undertaken by prisoners at HMP Lindholme does work but we can and must do more - Below: Dry coat finishing of 6 foot picket is a great way to give back to society and our delivering wins for both parties and society at post at HMP Coldingley (near Woking) Armed Forces.” all levels.” Philip Dunne, Minister for Defence Procurement has praised Project Claustrum

desider June 2016 21 NEWS

New Navigation System for the Royal Navy

E&S has secured a £17 million Philip Dunne, Minister of State Cdr Gavin Edward, contract with Lockheed for Defence Procurement, said: “The Communications and Situational Martin Integrated Systems new compass system will modernise Awareness Deputy Team Leader DUK to fit more than 30 Royal Navy navigation systems on board our ships in DE&S, added: “The Navigation ships, submarines and shore facilities and submarines, which are critical for Compass Programme will deliver with a new state-of-the-art navigation safely plotting courses at sea. a sustainable and flexible solution system. “This contract will therefore provide which responds to the higher accuracy The new system will equip the Royal state-of-the-art technology for the requirements demanded of modern Navy with highly accurate sensors and Royal Navy while delivering the best Defence geospatial and navigation the latest fibre optic technology, and value for money for the UK taxpayer, systems. will be fitted on the Type 23 frigates, and is yet another example of how “The replacement of this system the Trafalgar and Vanguard Class we are investing our £178 billion across surface ship and submarine submarines, the Hunt and Sandown equipment fund and growing Defence fleets will optimise supportability Class mine counter measure vessels budget in providing the best possible and significantly reduce the training and other Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships. kit for our Armed Forces.” requirement.” The Navigation Compass Lockheed Martin says the units The first surface ships will receive Programme contract, which covers are highly reliable, as they don’t have the new Navigation Compass system the demonstration, manufacture and any moving parts which deteriorate in early 2017, with work to begin in-service support, will also provide over time. They are also compact fitting it to the submarines later that a single support solution, making and lightweight, saving space and year. future maintenance more flexible and providing more options as to where manageable. to locate them within the ships and Below: submarines, the company says. Type 23 frigate, HMS Lancaster

The new compass“ system will modernise navigation systems on board our ships and submarines, which are critical for safely plotting courses at sea

Philip Dunne, Minister for Defence Procurement ”

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Every threat is individual. So is our response. FEATURE

CEO Commendations MOD Main Building welcomed DE&S staff on May 6 to our CEO Tony Douglas’ first Commendation Ceremony. Congratulations to all DE&S staff and teams who were recognised

he CEO Commendation ceremony was me say - thank you.” of approval, adding: “The team delivered a held last month to recognise teams and Tony handed out commendation certificates unique contingent capability for defence, individuals at DE&S whose incredible to the award winners with tribute and thanks and for their dedication and helpfulness, Tefforts make such a difference. coming from DE&S senior managers and they have my sincere thanks.” In opening the event at Main Building customers which included: in London CEO Tony Douglas said: “I feel • Customer, AVM Malcolm Brecht, COS humbled to be here today. These awards • Customer, Brigadier Ian Gibb, who Capability Air Command, paid tribute to highlight some of the amazing things we congratulated the VIRTUS team for their the work of the Unmanned Air Systems do daily and it’s not often we get the chance role in delivering the new integrated Reaper team saying: “Reaper is now flying to reflect on the importance of it. We will see body armour describing the team’s work more and more and for longer than was some incredible examples of your work today as “truly exceptional, committed and originally envisaged – flying on operations, and it’s an absolute pleasure to be part of this deeply impressive.” He also praised the placing additional and constantly changing with you; a celebration of the recognition you achievements of the FUCHS Project Team demands on the team while enabling rapid so rightly deserve and it’s something we should for their role in returning 11 FUCHS deployment of this essential capability.” do more often. On behalf of the wider team, let vehicles back into service five months ahead

24 desider June 2016 FEATURE

• AVM Gavin Parker, AOCNo 2 Group, paid tribute to the work of Mrs Terry Cooper for Award Winners her role in delivering the UK’s first Airbus A400M aircraft saying “your exceptional Individuals knowledge and judgement ensured sound commercial outcomes and enabled customer • Mrs Carolyn McGlynn – Joint Service requirements to be met on time and to Administration Unit schedule.” • Mr Tommy Byrne – Merlin Project Team In his closing remarks, Tony congratulated • Commander Mark Smith Royal Navy – all of the award winners saying: “Having Merlin Project Team listened to all the awards, I am now even more • Mrs Terry Cooper – A400M Team taken back by the extraordinary work by all • Squadron Leader Terry Sweeney – of those who are being commended today. It’s Air Intelligence Surveillance, Target incredible work that really makes a difference Acquisition and Reconnaissance Team and I’d just like to finish with one simple • Lieutenant Commander Amy Alexander sincere word – thank-you.” – Maritime Anti Air Warfare Systems Award winners Terry Cooper (A400M) Above: Terry Cooper receiving her certificate from Team and John Allan (D Tech), took time out of CEO Tony Douglas • Warrant Officer Class 2 Michael Poland their celebrations to share their thoughts on Below: John Allen receives a certificate on behalf of – Defence Support Chain Operations & receiving their commendations. the DE&S Safety Day Committee Movements Team Terry said: “I feel honoured to be awarded • Dr Robert Little – United States this CEO commendation, especially as I Arm Aviation & Missile Research, appreciate that many people across DE&S Development & Engineering Centre are delivering to high standards every day. I • Mr Manoj Jethwa – Special Projects also appreciate how lucky I am to work in an Communications, Information, area that people take the time to recognise Surveillance and Reconnaissance Team achievements of their individuals and teams.” • Mr Peter Jennings – Assistance and John Allan said on behalf of the DE&S Guidance Group Safety Day Committee: “The Team Commendation was really recognition for the Teams whole team effort that went in to the last Safety Day. It also gives us all a real boost as we look • Submarine Production Boat 5 Deal forward to this year’s event on June 23. Team “On the commendation day, it was hugely • Unmanned Air System – Reaper Team humbling to understand the full contribution • UK Military Flying Training Systems – of all the winners and some of the amazing Hawk Support Team stories behind their endeavours.” • Chinook JULIUS Project Team • DE&S Safety Day Committee • DE&S Nuclear Undergraduate Apprenticeship Team • Management Information Systems Team • DE&S Salvage & Marine Operations – Salvage Team • Air Commodities Safety Team • C130J Radio Frequency Defensive Aids System Team • Weapons OC, Defence Munitions Team and Lightweight Missile Attack Systems Project Team • Fast Air Support Team Finance and Inventory Control Team • VIRTUS Project Team • Land Domain in Support of Operation GRITROCK Team • HONEYSUCKLE CBRN Capability Project Team • CERBERUS Project Team • FUCHS Project Team • ISTAR Business Management Team • DE&S Principal Security Advisor’s Office • Strategic Weapons Targeting System Team

Pictures: Andrew Linnett

desider June 2016 25 NEWS

Shock testing barge undergoes move to quarry 450-tonne barge that Navy’s ships and submarines for any equipment at considerably achieve. Using a moveable tent helps maintain the UK’s their resistance to shock damage. less cost than previous explosive and local pre-heating, with a leading capabilities in Moving the barge from its testing and to be able to do it welding procedure reviewed by Ashock analysis and testing has former home at Rosyth provides when we want and for how long NAG’s Material Technology team, now reached its final destination the opportunity for more flexible we want.” the shipyard have delivered a very in a water-filled quarry in and cost effective testing at the Phillip Thompson, Director good result with no weld defects.” Scotland after being towed from new location where it will be European Operations at Thornton Once rebuilt the barge was Rosyth, dismantled, moved to the operated by Thornton Tomasetti Tomasetti Defence Ltd said: “The lifted into the water with a heavy quarry (see Desider Issue 76) and Defence Ltd, a key supplier of movement and reactivation of the 450 tonne mobile crane in an reassembled. shock and weapons effects testing, shock barge was very challenging operation that took a week to The hazard of shock damage analysis and advice to NAG. and involved towing to a separate build the crane and a full day to to warships, submarines and David Manley, head of the shipyard where it was cut up, move the barge into the water. their equipment from non- NAG Ships group, said: “The cleaned up and moved by road Mr Machin added: “We haven’t contact underwater explosions requirement for shock testing to the quarry test site in eleven quite finished yet. We still need to is an enduring one. Most of the has not gone away, so we decided sections up to 75 tonnes in size.” get the painters in for the interior UK’s testing lies in industry, but the barge had to be moved to Mr Machin said: “A key and the NAG Ship Stability, Ship is overseen by the Vulnerability the quarry, run by Thornton challenge of the programme Structures, Fire and Escape and Reduction team in DE&S’ Naval Tomasetti Defence Limited, where was getting the local shipyard Evacuation teams will have to Authority Group (NAG). A we undertake most of our other in experienced in welding thick complete their assessment that key part of this capability is the water shock testing.” ‘submarine quality’ steel to the the barge is fit to obtain key STV02 large shock barge, which Stuart Machin, head of NAG- required standard in a location hazard certification, just like any is about the size of a minehunter VR, added: “When this capability without the facilities usually other vessel. But soon we can and has the capability, the greatest is added to previous investment in found in a submarine dockyard say that the shock barge is fully in NATO, to test the largest air gun shock testing technology, or shipyard and we had a bad operational.” equipment fitted to the Royal it will provide the ability to test feeling this would be difficult to

26 desider June 2016 NEWS

Nominations open for Minister (DP) Acquisition Awards

o you know a team that • and an overall winner, awarded must be endorsed at Two Star level or Above: Philip has made an exceptional to the team who has made the above. Dunne, Min(DP), contribution to Defence most outstanding contribution to The Minister(DP) Acquisition with the 6 Award DAcquisition over the past year? defence acquisition. Awards are the highest accolade winners and Philip Dunne sponsors the Minister Nominations are invited from teams teams can achieve within this field Special Award (Defence Procurement) Acquisition from across the MOD including the and surpass other departmental winner at last year’s Awards and would like to invite Front Line Commands, Head Office, commendation awards. Awards ceremony nominations. The scheme aims to give Defence Equipment and Support, The Minister will present this year’s recognition to teams that have made Information Systems and Services, awards on Tuesday, November 15, 2016. exceptional contributions to Defence Defence Infrastructure Organisation, Applications should be made Acquisition. It is open to personnel and Defence Science and Technology via DIN 2016DIN04-086. Further from across the whole of the MOD who Laboratory, and those in functions information can be obtained from are working in or in support of Defence that enable acquisition such as human Alyson Rees, ASA-Awards-Sec, Tel: Acquisition. resources, information systems, finance, (9)612 86865 or 020 721 86865, or science and technology, commercial, email: [email protected]. There are a number of awards: policy and secretariat. • Up to six standard awards, Teams can be nominated by line The closing date for nominations is • New this year ‘Innovation of the management, their peers, other June 20, 2016. Year’ award, stakeholders and they can also • ‘Recognition of Achievement’ nominate themselves. All nominations awards (as appropriate),

desider June 2016 27 FEATURE

A VIRTUAL ALADDIN’S CAVE

imulation based training is proving to help exploit investment and ensure out there and letting people know about it,” he a vital tool for preparing the Armed coherence across Defence and with Allies. says with an attack helicopter simulator as his Forces for battle. The interim Defence The simulations on the screen are examples backdrop. SSimulation Centre at MOD Boscombe Down of the type of tools and resources that can be “We have a very good solid user base but has many reusable resources including a sourced from a little less than 40 miles away we need to grow that so it benefits everybody. huge database of terrains and training aids from Shrivenham at MOD Boscombe Down. Currently the largest users are industry, DE&S just waiting to be exploited. There’s an online catalogue of accurate and the Army. “Simulation training, experimentation virtual terrains alongside thousands of 3D “We want everybody to use the same and analysis saves lives, there is no doubt in models featuring all manner of platforms, simulations and resources so not only do we my mind about that,” Royal Navy Lieutenant weapons systems and personal protective have interoperability but it is far easier to Joshua Evans told Desider. equipment. All these resources are available manage. It’s about having a consistency in “It’s vital. It allows you to go over scenarios to the military often without cost, including approach and advice ensuring we save lives just not possible in live training again, and to industry, providing the company have and money. again. It prepares you the best you can possibly a current contract with the MOD. Any “The basic rule is, before you go and buy be prepared.” improvements made to any of the resources something, make sure the MOD does not Lt Evans is speaking from the Defence must be provided back for further reuse. already have it.” Academy at Shrivenham where he is studying a DSC Programme manager Ian Page shows Back at the Defence Academy Major Tom Masters in defence simulation and modelling, Desider a selection of the simulation tools Mouat is the Simulation Liaison Officer for a course he volunteered for because he available. the military. He ensures that the simulation understands the value of Suitably Qualified Ian said: “Having this vast range of terrains courses delivered by Cranfield University’s and Experienced Personnel (SQEP). and 3D models allows us to recreate accurately Jonathan Searle and his team contain the right He has to excuse himself because a virtual exactly the area the personnel are going to. content to satisfy defence requirements. task is about to get underway in which he is in We can walk them through the streets they He has no doubt that simulation is charge of a T45 destroyer that is on standby if will be patrolling and even highlight previous increasingly important but is also passionate other forces dealing with narcotics traffickers locations of IEDS or sniper attacks. that training people to understand the need his help. A series of screens are showing “This is a huge advantage in training and technology is equally vital. all manner of information including maps and means they are prepared as best they can be “We are in a high-tech but smaller Army his view from the bridge. before they go into the theatre of war.” now and there are new bits of equipment With the importance of simulation in many But for Ian the battle is making people coming out and we need to know how to use aspects across Defence formally recognised, aware that this huge resource exists and can be them,” Maj Mouat said. from SDSR 2010 to last year’s Defence Policy exploited. “If we don’t understand it, all sorts of things for Simulation, funding has become available “The biggest challenge is getting the word can go wrong and simulation is one of the best

28 desider June 2016 FEATURE

Key points on simulation:

1. The Defence Training & Education Coherence (DTEC) approach is responsible for technical coherence for simulation both internally to the MOD and “ externally with Allies. 2. DTEC covers all uses of Simulation simulation in Defence. Its aims for simulation include improved performance, less cost and training, improved environmental impact. 3. The interim Defence Simulation experimentation Centre (iDSC) acts as a single point of focus for simulation across Defence with enquiries and analysis saves for common resources, help and guidance accepted from MOD, Industry and Academia. lives, there is no 4. The iDSC and subsequent Defence Training, Education and Simulation Centre (DTESC) are doubt in my mind being delivered by DES Training & Simulation Systems Programme (TSSP). about that 5. DES DTech Engineering Group Lieutenant Joshua Evans RN directly supports JFC’s DTEC Technical Authority (under Cap C4ISR) managing simulation policy, standards, and technical coherence and provides technical advice and guidance. 6. Suitably Qualified and ” Experienced Personnel (SQEP) for simulation related posts are key to the success of simulation in ways we can learn. That means it is crucial that for simulation across Defence also providing Defence. SQEP understand the technology. advice and guidance. “Only then can we ensure we are not “The biggest problem we have is overspending unnecessarily and also that we communicating to people we are here, and that are not purchasing technology that is actually we are here to help - not hinder,” he said. of no use. For more information visit the ASG and “It may look all new and shiny but, search for DTEC, or if you need help or unless it is practical and meets the specified guidance on any simulation matter contact the requirements, it is a waste of money.” iDSC Front Door via www.defac.mod.uk/dsc And that is why Boscombe Down is keen to For information on MOD funded places shout about what’s available. on the Master of Science (MSc) in Defence The last word goes to Grant Bailey, a DES Simulation and Modelling (and on other MOD Specialist Fellow for Simulation from DE&S simulation courses) see the Defence Academy Engineering Group who works on the Defence web page at http://www.da.mod.uk/Courses/ Training & Education Coherence (DTEC) Course-Details/Course/477 approach, which ensures technical coherence Pictures: Ed Low Pictures: Ed

Above: Ian Page Above: Major Tom Mouat Above: Grant Bailey

desider June 2016 29 FIRST PERSON

I would say that “I’m blessed with an extremely capable team of civilian and military engineers, supported by a transient workforce of MOD apprentices and graduates ”

Picture: Ed Low 30 desider June 2016 FIRST PERSON

On safety culture, graduates and Tae Kwon Do Keith Woodbridge is the Safety Team Leader for the Fast Air Support Team. Over the last year, he has been running a Health and Safety legal awareness campaign and working closely with junior staff employed through the Defence Engineering and Science Group (DESG) Graduate Scheme.

A brief outline of your career? supported by a transient workforce of MOD What is your involvement in the DESG apprentices and graduates. The geographical I joined the MOD back in 1991 as the first graduate scheme? divide can be frustrating but also opens up tranche of Technical Trainee Engineers, The graduate scheme offers an incredible opportunities to work with the front line and where I enjoyed varied roles, based initially at opportunity for those on it to gain rapid our industrial counterparts, as well has having Devonport Dockyard wiring Trafalgar Class exposure to the DE&S organisation, across all ready access to Abbey Wood based teams. submarines before graduating into a team aspects of our business. Of course adopting Driving along the M4/M5 is a standard part of supporting Royal Naval Radar systems at the a graduate for six months does come with our lives, but we also hold weekly dial-ins and Land Based Test Site in Portsmouth. an overhead and must represent a mutually routine team meetings. I later joined the Typhoon team’s Avionics beneficial relationship, where a meaningful project is identified at the outset and delivered section, initially as their Attack and How will Transformation affect your at the end of the contract. I have been Identification lead and then as the Cockpit, team? Displays and Controls specialist. Seduced delighted by the graduates that I’ve employed The niche engineering roles in my team will so far, and it’s definitely true that enthusiasm by mountains, beer and a “small” pay rise, I remain largely unchanged as FAST moves moved to Munich in 2008 joining NATO on and a willingness to learn are just as useful a through the Transformation programme. resource as experience and seniority. secondment, acting on behalf of the three However, formal recognition of the skills and partner nations as their structural specialist. professionalisation of the organisation can On return to the UK I joined the newly formed What do you enjoy doing in your spare only be a good thing. Recent Spiral 1 training time? Fast Air Support Team (FAST) as the Tornado was quite the revelation. We’ve had to think My principal mode of transport is an Safety Manager and more recently as the FAST carefully in defining our outputs and how they absolute joy, my matt-black 2009 Triumph Safety Team Leader. contribute to the various programmes. The Speed Triple motorbike. I also practice Tae trick here is to avoid double accounting time Kwon Do with my two teenage daughters What does your role involve? and I had to resist the temptation of fitting twice a week and last month I won Gold in I am the Safety Team Leader within Combat my existing resource to the task rather than the English Southern championships, in the Air’s Fast Air Support Team (FAST), producing an honest resourced based schedule. responsible for military and civilian staff at veteran category. My one real talent is art, although I haven’t told anyone yet that my Abbey Wood and Typhoon and Tornado’s You have been promoting knowledge middle name is Banksy. Main Operating Bases. My principal role is of Health and Safety Regulation and the delivery of a modern safety management Law across DE&S. What are your system spanning all of FAST’s programmes, thoughts on this? ranging from the RAF’s new fast jet aircraft I have some fairly exciting hobbies and on to Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s flying a personal level I’m arguably the least safe antiques. Of course, success is in safety terms person I know. It is of course extremely easy to defined to a certain extent by the absence of take our own safety for granted and we make incidents and accidents, but I’m also highly many subconscious risk-based decisions every motivated by improving our safety culture single day. However, we all work within a legal across the team, which is much harder to framework and it is implicit as employers and measure. Open and honest communication is employees that we take care of ourselves and vital. others and that we actively seek out, document and reduce the potential for harm. To elevate You manage teams in Abbey Wood, our legal awareness and to remind staff of RAF Marham and RAF Coningsby. good practice, my graduates have produced How do you deal with this? a series of Health and Safety posters covering I would say that I’m blessed with an extremely such things as manual handling, lone working, capable team of civilian and military engineers, working at height and noise in the workplace.

desider June 2016 31 RECRUITMENT CASE STUDY Deputy Head Commercial for Land Equipment Patricia Fernon gives her insight into working for DE&S

Name: Patricia Fernon

Job title: Deputy Head Commercial for Land Equipment

How long have you worked for DE&S? 20 Years and 30 years in MOD Commercial

Why did you choose to pursue a career in DE&S? I saw it as an opportunity to support the troops on the front line by ensuring they had the right equipment delivered to the right place at the right time. I also saw the security and benefits of a job which had plenty of opportunities for career advancement, up skilling and travel.

What does your role entail? I currently support the Head of Commercial for Land Equipment and therefore oversee all the Commercial activities across the Land Operating Centre. In doing this I provide robust Commercial Solutions that deliver value for money to the Armed Forces. The portfolio of work across the Land Equipment OC can range from face paint to heavy armoured vehicles.

What are the opportunities to develop and progress within your function? I have had many opportunities to develop and progress my career and I have had, and continue to have, great mentors and bosses. I have had a mixture of direct civilian and military bosses and each Picture: Ed Low Ed Picture: have taught me skills that I have not possessed before. I have experienced working overseas in Washington DC, Bosnia, Croatia Why would you recommend DE&S to others as a great place and the Falkland Islands, with first-hand experience of working with to work? the Armed Forces on the frontline in Bosnia and Croatia. DE&S is going through a big change programme with career development, personal development and professional up skilling What do you most enjoy about your job? key. Part of the programme is to ensure people are at the heart of The pace of the work, my colleagues and not knowing what is going the changes. DE&S has provided me with practical experience, to pop up on the day and surprise you. The satisfaction that we are acquisition skills and professional qualifications in Finance, Project making a difference in providing enhanced capability for the Armed Management, Business management and my anchor function Forces. Commercial. There are no procurement jobs out there that match What’s your ambition? those within DE&S.

To be as professional and helpful in my job as possible, enjoy life to What are the social benefits of working for DE&S? the full, not be grumpy (ask my colleagues), and achieve a work life Coming directly from London to Abbey Wood you can’t help but be balance. grateful for an open plan working environment with gardens within What’s the greatest achievement (in your role) to date? the complex. 15 Years of delivering Urgent Operational Requirement (UOR) The onsite gym facilities are accessible and good quality, there are equipment to the Armed Forces, which included the Future Integrated always class activities going on over the lunchtime periods ranging Soldier Technology project, Head mounted Night Vision and VIRTUS, from Zumba to five a side football. This also allows for meeting people all of which are considered as step change capability for the Armed and therefore networking. Forces. Seeing the troops wearing the kit when they are filmed on TV There is very much more of an ethos of working around individual’s or appear in newspaper articles gives me a real feeling of pride and personal requirements and therefore more opportunities of flexible achievement. working, condensed hours and working from home.

32 desider June 2016 RECRUITMENT WORK FOR DE&S

Welcome to this edition of DE&S jobs in Desider. There are great opportunities available at DE&S and each month we list current and future posts. For even more opportunities visit the Civil Service Jobs Portal at www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk Graduate and apprentice schemes E&S offers a number of top class graduate and vacancies, DE&S offers a number of top class graduate apprenticeship opportunities, providing successful and apprenticeship opportunities, providing successful Dapplicants with “hands-on” experience in roles across a applicants with “hands-on” experience in roles across a range of projects. range of projects. If you have recently left school or university and are More information on the range of graduate and interested in embarking on a career in defence but do apprentice opportunities DE&S has to offer is available not yet have the experience/skills required for our listed www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk

Rewards and benefits n addition to the fantastic variety of cutting edge jobs and which offer numerous discounts to members. an excellent opportunity to develop skills through training, Our headquarters are based in Abbey Wood, Bristol s jobs Iincluding working towards professional qualifications, we and, like many other sites, boasts an impressive range also provide first rate benefits for all of our employees. These of facilities including a fully equipped gym, an on site include flexible working, excellent annual leave, maternity nursery, a range of restaurants and coffee bistros and a and paternity allowances as well as a very competitive hairdressers. pension scheme, eligibility for performance related pay, We understand the commitments our staff have, both free car parking (caveats apply), a proactive employee inside and outside of the office. Our aim is to provide you & engagement, access to Benenden Medical care and the with a place of work which allows you the flexibility you opportunity to join many civil-service clubs such as the require to maintain a great work/life balance. Sports and Social Association and Motoring Club (CSMA)

Equality and diversity

E&S is committed to embracing diversity: it is one of • promoting a workplace that values dignity, respect our core values. Irrespective of gender, marital status, and fairness de Drace, religion, age, disability and without reference to social • promoting high standards of behaviour and background or sexual orientation, DE&S operates an complying with the law by creating equality of inclusive environment to allow you to develop your career. opportunity Whether uniformed or civilian, we expect the attitudes of To demonstrate our commitment, we are members of Stonewall, our people to reflect our approach to diversity by: Race for Opportunity, Opportunity Now, The Employers Forum on • fostering a working environment where all staff Disability, The Employers Forum on Age, and we are also affiliated feel comfortable, welcomed and valued for their to a:gender. contributions Read more about equality and diversity in MOD.

How to apply e are looking for innovative, talented, focused If you would like to view all current vacancies across individuals to join us in being instrumental in defending DE&S and the wider civil service, please visit the Civil WBritain’s interest both at home and overseas. Service Job Portal. DE&S provides the opportunity for a truly rewarding In addition, for an easy, hassle free way of keeping up to career, working on complex, interesting and often date with all the latest vacancies, you can now follow us on sensitive projects of great significance and consequence, Twitter or like our page on Facebook. with excellent training opportunities for your continued professional development.

desider June 2016 33 RECRUITMENT

CURRENT VACANCIES

Commercial Officer DE&S Cambridge £24,362 Executive Officer / D Closing date: 10 June 2016 Reference number 1493928 Post type Permanent Type of role Commercial Hours 37 Hours Job Description: Duties of the post include the contract management of a range of spares and support contracts; together with the processing of new requirements; provide advice and support on business cases and procurement strategies; and provide general commercial support. The post holder will also be required to maintain various contract data bases and use e-procurement tools. QEC Strategic Class Authority – Equipment Manager DE&S Bristol £30,424 Higher Executive Officer /C2 Closing date: 12 June 2016 Reference number 1482073 Post type Permanent Type of role Project Delivery Hours 37 Hours Job Description: Within Ship Acquisition, the QEC Support team are responsible for the development and implementation of QEC Stage 1 & 2 Support solution and the transition into Surface Ship Support (SSS) Phase 3 Common Support Model within the Maritime Support Delivery Framework (MSDF). Finance Higher Apprenticeship (Level 4) DE&S Bristol £19,101 Administrative Officer / E1 Closing date: 13 June 2016 Reference number 1493600 Post type Fixed Term - 18 Months Type of role Accountancy, Finance Hours 37 Hours Job Description: As a member of the DE&S Finance Higher Apprenticeship Scheme you will learn how DE&S finances, purchases and manages the equipment and supplies it needs to support the Armed Forces. You will work in a project team or Operating Centre, primarily in the DE&S area to gain ‘hands on’ experience in finance or purchasing and contract management. Day-to-day, your placements will provide the opportunity to learn about all aspects of finance or purchasing and contract management.

Science and Technology Capability DE&S Reading £30,424 Higher Executive Officer /C2 Closing date: 19 June 2016 Reference number 1493777 Post type Permanent Type of role Engineering, Proj Delivery, Science Hours 37 Hours Job Description: The post is responsible for the maintenance and delivery of the hydrodynamics and engineering analysis elements of the agreed long-term Science and Technology Programme conducted by AWE (currently known as the Warhead Underpinning Technology Programme).

Type 26 Global Combat Ship – Production Approval Authority 2b DE&S Govan £30,424 Higher Executive Officer /C2 Closing date: 17 June 2016 Reference number 1487161 Post type Permanent Type of role Engineering, Project Delivery Hours 37 Hours Job Description: Within D Ships the Ship Acquisition team is a Two Star led team responsible for the delivery and future support in service of the Queen Elizabeth Class (QEC) aircraft carrier programme the T26 Global Combat Ship (GCS) and RN Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV’s). This outcome is enabled by a professional and integrated team ensuring safe and efficient delivery through a transformed Industrial Sector.

Type 26 Global Combat Ship – Production Approval Authority 3a DE&S Govan £30,424 Higher Executive Officer /C2 Closing date: 17 June 2016 Reference number 1487161 Post type Permanent Type of role Engineering, Project Delivery Hours 37 Hours Job Description: As above.

34 desider June 2016 RECRUITMENT

FUTURE VACANCIES

Subs Engineering DE&S Bristol £30,424 & £37,071 Estimated launch: Mid July 2016 Grade Higher Executive Officer / C2 & Senior Executive Officer / C1 Post type Permanent Type of role Engineering Hours 37 Hours DE&S’ engineers work with industry partners to deliver programmes, provide specialist input to projects, and solve a range of engineering challenges. Supply Chain Management DE&S Bristol £30,424 Estimated launch: Late July 2016 Grade Higher Executive Officer / C2 Post type Permanent Type of role Logistics Hours 37 Hours Work with a variety of partners to ensure the flow of equipment and support services go to where the Armed Forces need them, when they need them.

Engineering DE&S s jobs Barrow £30,424 & £37,071 Estimated launch: Early June 2016

Grade Higher Executive Officer / C2 & Senior Executive Officer / C1 Post type Permanent & Type of role Engineering Hours 37 Hours DE&S’ engineers work with industry partners to deliver programmes, provide specialist input to projects, and solve a range of engineering challenges. Project Professionals DE&S Bristol £30,424 Estimated launch: Late July 2016 Grade Higher Executive Officer / C2 Post type Permanent

Type of role Project Hours 37 Hours de Project professionals at DE&S can work on complex, interesting and often sensitive projects of great significance across many of the operating areas. There are excellent training opportunities for continued development. Project Professionals DE&S Barrow £30,424 & £37,071 Estimated launch: Mid August 2016 Grade Higher Executive Officer / C2 & Senior Executive Officer / C1 Post type Permanent Type of role Project Hours 37 Hours Project professionals at DE&S can work on complex, interesting and often sensitive projects of great significance across many of the operating areas. There are excellent training opportunities for continued development. Engineering - ISTAR DE&S Bristol £30,424 & £37,071 Estimated launch: Early August 2016 Grade Higher Executive Officer / C2 & Senior Executive Officer / C1 Post type Permanent Type of role Engineering Hours 37 Hours DE&S’ engineers work with industry partners to deliver programmes, provide specialist input to projects, and solve a range of engineering challenges.

Please note – This is the currently planned recruitment activity for the coming months and may be subject to change according to business needs and priorities. desider June 2016 35 DE&S PEOPLE

60 SECOND SPOTLIGHT

Name? Andrew Montgomery

Job? I am a Commercial Officer for the United Kingdom Military Flight Training Systems (UKMFTS) project team, which is responsible for delivery of fully trained aircrew across all three Armed Services. I am currently responsible for a range of contracts for the Red Arrows, Hawk T2, Air Cadet Gliders and Tucano Basic Fast Jet Trainer Aircraft. I am also helping to lead the Spiral 2 Transformation for the Commercial Function in UKMFTS.

Your route into DE&S? I came into DE&S on the C2 Band Recruitment Campaign for Procurement Managers after being a Rolls-Royce commercial graduate and studying European Legal Studies at the University of Bristol. The attraction of following up on my interests in contract law and international business while working on interesting projects within the Air Domain across the UK and abroad was too good to miss.

Your claim to fame? I help keep the Red Arrows flying with the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team (RAFAT) and Hawk Majors project team. It’s exciting to think that I’m part of making the displays around the world a possibility.

Your advice to anyone? Ask lots of questions and take advantage of the training on offer in the Civil Service!

What do you do when you’re away from work? I windsurf and rock climb as well as lots of community work through my church.

Picture: Ed Low What are you most proud of? What is your favourite place in the I can speak fluent Spanish and I’m learning world? French. Valencia in Spain or the coast line of North West Wales and England.

If you were sent to a desert island, what three things would you take with you? Your secret? My surf board, a good book and a ‘how to’ I memorised all of the relevant financial and guide on long distance swims…. commercial codes for the Ministry of Defence (MOD) payment system to make paying contractors less time consuming. What irritates you the most? I’m cool like that. When people in the organisation refuse to Do you or someone you see the big picture and pull together for a team effort. Arguments over finance or know deserve their 60 the contract make us forget the service personnel relying on our good and timely seconds in the spotlight? decisions. Email [email protected]

36 desider June 2016 DE&S PEOPLE First female civil submariner

The true“ value of this achievement will emerge in years to come Alasdair Stirling Head of Future Submarines

Above: Sarah Cole ” E&S employee Sarah Cole has become She said food and the gym proved to be everything is OK at home.” the first British female civil servant to important contributors to morale on board. Keeping herself occupied when she was Dqualify as a submariner. “The chefs on board do an impressive job not on watch also proved important. Sarah earned her Dolphins during a three with the resources available,” Sarah said. “Regular pastimes included films, Fifa month patrol on board HMS Victorious – a “The weekly menu would follow a regular and music. Additionally there were socials nuclear powered ballistic missile submarine drumbeat of curry on Wednesday, fish on including weekly quizzes, mess dinners and – as part of a Continuous At Sea Deterrence Friday, steak on Saturday and a roast on horse racing involving handmade horses posture referred to as Operation Relentless. Sunday. Submarine food often has colloquial and dice. Together as a watch we would see A restriction on female submariners was Jackspeak (naval slang) names such as sweet a movie after breakfast on Sundays with lifted in 2011 and the first female submariners corn being called smokers teeth and bread chips and chocolate,” Sarah said. qualified in 2014. rolls being referred to as fat pills. “However spinning dits (telling Sarah, who works as a submarine naval “The gym was for me, and stories) was the most common pastime. architect for the DE&S Naval Authority Group many others, a temporary Discussions ranged from dripping and sought this opportunity for professional escape. A collection of gym (moaning) about scrubbing out (cleaning) development, is a member of the Royal Corps equipment and weights were for Captain’s Rounds to patrol dreams of of Naval Constructors (RCNC) – a civilian fitted around the missile foreign holidays and new cars or bikes.” organisation and an integrated part of the tubes. Running while staring She added: “Overall I feel privileged to Defence Engineering and Science Group. at a bulkhead required some have gained such a unique insight to an Before the tour Sarah had to undertake imagination or an iPad but it operational submarine. I was impressed submarine escape and firefighting safety was pivotal to morale.” at the professionalism and hard work of training and a seven week Nuclear General One of the hardest things everybody on board and would like to say Course at HMS Sultan to learn the principles for Sarah was being away thank you to everyone, both within DE&S of nuclear reactors and secondary propulsion for such a long period and the Navy, who helped me to achieve my systems. of time and having such Dolphins.” Sarah told Desider: “Life on board is limited contact with Alasdair Stirling, Head of Future dominated by routine. The majority of the family and friends. Submarines, said: “This is a significant boat works six hour watches principally to fit She said: “Contact achievement for Sarah as many members around meal times. For most of the patrol I from family and of the RCNC have tried but have not been worked in second watch, 1pm-7pm and 1am- friends was limited able to get the qualification before their sea 7am every day. to one way 120 word time ended. This qualification will be of “The insidious nature of sleep deprivation weekly messages called huge benefit to Sarah’s career supporting is an abiding memory of patrol. However the familygrams. For most the Royal Navy. The true value of this occasional little things such as helping the they quickly become achievement will emerge in years to come.” galley make bread brought me some semblance incredibly important of normality.” in providing some connection and reassurance that Below: HMS Victorious

desider June 2016 37 DE&S PEOPLE

Fitter than ever after 12 hour operation to remove brain tumour

ix years ago Tony Riden underwent a 12 ward at Bristol Frenchay where he said his care hour operation to remove a brain tumour had been fantastic. Sthe size of a grapefruit and the idea of Tony continued running and in 2014 set himself running even a short distance seemed impossible. the goal of completing his first marathon when But as part of his recovery his wife encouraged Zoe was diagnosed with breast cancer. him to join her jogging and Tony set goals for “It was a huge blow but running the Portsmouth himself which began with just making it around Coastal Marathon gave me something to focus on,” the block. An added incentive was his daughter Tony, 57, said. Zoe’s wedding as he was determined he would “It was really tough because of the wind and walk her down the aisle. mud but I raised £900 for the Bristol Haematology He did just that and incredibly just one year & Oncology Centre (BHOC) and thankfully Zoe after surgery he ran his first half marathon in Bath. has just had her second year clear now.” “It was a long operation and I suffered a massive In April this year Tony took on the Manchester brain seizure and had to be put in an induced Marathon, this time raising money for the Make- coma for two weeks,” Tony, who works in the A-Wish Foundation, a charity which arranges DE&S Ships Acquisition team, said. experiences for children with life-threatening “I was on a Zimmer frame because of muscle conditions. wastage and I had to learn how to balance again, “I had a target of £100 but have been astonished it was a very strange time but my wife Dee was at the generosity of people and have raised £630. I wonderful.” also ran a new PB of 5 hours 5 minutes, although I He was off work for eight months recovering but had hoped to run 4 hours 30.” incredibly by March 2011 Tony had run the Bath You can still donate at https://www.justgiving. Half Marathon and raised £1,000 for the neurology com/fundraising/Tony-Riden1 Above: Tony Riden Fundraising for Brain Tumour Charity onnie Ford from the DE&S emotional challenge but an amazing Joint Asset Management and experience, and I enjoyed every minute BEngineering Solutions (JAMES) -even the hills! I feel very proud to have Delivery Team in Warminster has been a part of such a fantastic day and raised £245.33 for charity. raising money for the Brain Tumour Bonnie raised the money for the C h ar it y.” Brain Tumour Charity by baking cakes (£80.33) and running the Plymouth half marathon (£165) on Right: Bonnie Ford with husband SSgt Sunday, April 17. Andy Ford at the end of the Plymouth half She said: “It was a hard and marathon

ABW RFC reach their first Army Final bbey Wood Rugby Football Club 10’s rugby tournament, which took rugby alongside a group of such great (ABW RFC) beat the odds to place in Belgium in May – a reward for friends.” Areach their first ever Army Final. their hard work. To get involved please email ABW The team, whose players comprise Player Rich Leat said: “I am proud to RFC recruitment head James Phillips at Below: Abbey Army, Royal Navy, RAF and Ministry be able to represent ABW RFC and play [email protected] Wood RFC of Defence civil servants, compete in the Army Rugby Union Championship. The Championship Final was held on April 27 against 11 Signals Regiment at Newbury RFC with many ABW supporters and former players travelling across the country to support their side. Sadly, despite registering the two best tries of the day, ABW RFC were defeated 49-14 in a physical and entertaining match. Although disappointed, the team travelled in good spirits to the Flanders

38 desider June 2016 DE&S PEOPLE

Meet the new Chaplain MOTTO for MOD Abbey Wood the MOD Lottery March 2016 winners

£10,000 Kelly Payne (Bicester) £ 5,000 Philip McQuillan (Aldergrove) £ 2,000 Sara King (Bicester) £500 Tracey James (Cardiff) Claire Webb (Catterick) £100 Robert Lawrence (Yeovil) Susan Day (Portsmouth) Laureano Oro-Campos (Camberley) Richard Biggs (Andover) Lee Smith (Fairford) Kathleen Lamb (Portsmouth) Frederick Hall (Leeming) Lee Smith (Fairford) Bernadette Shield (Whitehall) Edward Edwards (Carterton) Helen Hale (Tidworth) Sarah Dray (York) Fiona Blake (Plymouth) Linda Cope (Andover) Benjamin Harris (Sutton Coldfield) Diana Smith (Bury St Edmunds) Alison Williams (Kings Lynn) ev (Wg Cdr) Andrew Jones has been depression and relationship issues. Patrick Graham (Beith) appointed the new Chaplain to MOD He said: “The situations I was dealing David Welton (Abbey Wood) Abbey Wood. with such as trauma, stress, depression and R Jennifer Biggs (Fareham) This role sees him working as part of the marriage issues demanded a higher level of Joint Services Administration Unit providing ability and I didn’t want to be in a position vital pastoral support as part of the welfare where I had to pass them on to somebody team that looks after the Abbey Wood Service else when they had come to me for help.” environment. It’s Tri-Service, there are Personnel and their families. Before joining Abbey Wood on April 4, civil servants, and while it has a multi faith Born in Wales, Andrew spent six years as where he works with part-time officiating prayer room there is no church,” he said. Curate of Caerphilly before joining the RAF Chaplain Karen Jones, Andrew spent three “Every community offers unique in 1996. years as Chaplain to the European Joint pressures and differences and myself and “I have been to all the places you wouldn’t Support Unit in Belgium. Karen are here to offer support to anybody want to go on holiday, including Afghanistan, “I was the one Padre to cover posts between who feels they need it. Iraq and the Falklands,” Andrew said. Stavanger in Norway and Izmir in Turkey,” “Although I am in uniform I regard “There has been a mixture of good and he said. myself as a Chaplain for everybody. Our bad experiences over the years. I have been “In terms of numbers it was no bigger policy is that we will never turn anybody stationed where we have lost aircraft and entire than a large camp but the geography was away.” crews. I was at Kabul Garrison when convoys challenging – I had a patch of 18 countries Each Thursday bible study, prayers and were going over landmines – there were some and 31 locations scattered all across Europe! coffee are held in the multi-faith prayer tough times. “It was my daughter who told me the only room at 7.30am. All are welcome. Andrew “I liked to be proactive - going out to see the way was to take advantage of technology so I would also like to hear from anyone troops and making sure they were ok.” set up a Facebook Group, a YouTube account, interested in a weekly lunchtime service. Because Andrew was dealing with such a blog and Skype and became the first ‘Virtual He can be contacted at DES-Padre@mod. trauma he took it upon himself to qualify as a Padre’.” uk. Read his blog at padreandrew.blogspot. psychotherapist, a discipline in which he has a Andrew says Abbey Wood, like all of his com Masters. It has allowed him in previous roles posts, offers its own unique challenge. to hold seminars on a range of topics including “Abbey Wood is a very different

desider June 2016 39 Delivering Capability to the UK Armed Forces’

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