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Issue 119 June 2018 the magazine for defence equipment and support Landdes Ceptor 2 Foreword must start my first Desider at risk and Merlin Mk 4 helicopter foreword as CEO by saying is being released into service. Ihow incredibly honoured I The first firing trials of the feel to have been given the British Army’s Land Ceptor opportunity to lead DE&S. missile system have taken place successfully demonstrating its "I’m delighted to see how many DE&S employees are accuracy and power. Meanwhile the RAF’s A400M giving back to their community through wonderful Atlas has gained full aeromedical evacuation capability for work like this" high dependency and highly infectious patients, signalling another important step forward Michael Bradley has done a for this integral programme. tremendous job as interim CEO And the first Phenom jet – part and has given me such solid of DE&S’ £1.1 billion upgraded foundations on which to build pilot-training fleet – has been upon (read more about Sir Simon acclaimed after making its and his hopes for the future on maiden training flight. pages 12&13). Finally, I must recognise those Starting off on a personal note, DE&S Science, Technology, I had the tremendous privilege Engineering and Mathematics of greeting George "Johnny" (STEM) ambassadors who Johnson at MOD Abbey Wood led classes at Vinney Green again when he visited to close Secure Children’s Home which our successful Learning at accommodates boys and girls, Work Week and spoke to staff aged between 10 and 17, many about his experiences with 617 of whom have committed serious Squadron in 1943 and his part in crimes. the famous Dambusters mission. Do not underestimate how Turning the clock forward, it your efforts can boost not only also reinforced the importance their interest in these core of what we do here to support subjects, but also their range the front line and I’m delighted of skills and, perhaps most that I can report yet another very importantly, self-esteem. I’m By Sir Simon Bollom CEO successful month. delighted to see how many Many of you or your teams DE&S employees are giving were recognised for your back to their community through outstanding efforts with a CEO wonderful work like this. Commendation – congratulations Keep up the good work. to all, you are a credit to DE&S and your outstanding contribution to defence is truly appreciated. Moving on to business as usual, there have been several significant announcements. The Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson announced £2.5 billion to boost Britain’s submarine building projects – Astute and Dreadnought – which sees thousands of jobs being sustained. The Royal Navy have received an autonomous minesweeper system that can clear sea lanes of mines without putting sailors
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4 desider June 2018 Feature Contents
06 Senior Leader 30 Final Army vehicle On the cover Comment: Acting keys handed over Land Ceptor firing trials Director Human 33 A400M Atlas’ medical Photo courtesy of MBDA Resources David Ball milestone
News Features 08 Land Ceptor missile 12 Desider gets to know system trials new CEO 14 £2.5 billion boost for 31 Lisa’s double honour Britain’s submarines delight 16 Minesweeper system handed to Royal Regulars Navy 20 First Person – New Merlin 18 Deputy head helicopter arrives of Safety and 22 CEO Commendations Environmental Protection, James 24 Sea Ceptor enters Inge service 32 60 Second Spotlight 25 Dambusters hero – Costs estimator visits DE&S Kevin Wade 26 C130J aircraft sold DE&S People – to Bangladesh 34 Women’s Network 27 Training jet’s maiden celebration flight 38 Jobs – Desider’s 28 State-of-the-art latest recruitment support facility pages and benefits unveiled
www.gov.uk/government/publications/desider-2018 Twitter: @DefenceES Facebook: @DefenceES LinkedIn: Defence Equipment & Support
5 desider June 2018 Senior Leader Comment
David Ball, Acting Director Human Resources, talks to Desider about his retirement at the end of June 2018 and his 35 years as a defence Civil Servant
ver since my first Senior In general, I’ve seen some civil servants in the war. My own if we don’t use them responsibly. Civil Service job, back in remarkable things over these 35 children think of it as old history. We have to be seen to have 1995, managing finance years. I saw the Greenham Peace A lot stays the same, but a lot earned the right to make our own Eand secretariat for what is camps when drafting things for has changed too. The MOD is decisions through the performance now the Land Equipment Michael Heseltine to say about a kinder place. When I started, and value for money that we Operating Centre, I have enjoyed them in my very first job in 1983; women had only very recently demonstrate. the business we do and the I wrote the investigation into ‘who been allowed to become graduate I’ve had great colleagues in professional atmosphere we work knew what’ about the Supergun; trainees in the MOD and gay DE&S and I’ll miss that – I do in at DE&S. I took the minutes of the meeting men were still refused security think that DE&S is fantastically I have been given the chance, when Mrs Thatcher committed clearances. People said things that well positioned now to thrive in since I first became Director HR us to military action in 1990; I would shock us today. I contrast the years ahead and I wish it, and in 2010, to fundamentally change was in the room with a Chinese that with the way we are all my successor, well. the way we manage people, General from the Long March determined today to make Defence treating everyone seriously as when he visited the then Secretary an inclusive place where everyone an accountable professional in a of State; I heard an IRA mortar go can be themselves. specialist market. That is the sort overhead in the Cabinet Office. If I came back to DE&S in five of chance you can normally only Most of all, I just consider years, I would hope we’d have dream of as an HR professional. myself very lucky to have had finished the job on transformation Although I wasn’t expecting to be a career supporting the armed and it would be normal for people Most of all, I just back in the chair as Director HR forces, with colleagues, both to be treated as accountable consider myself last November, I’ve appreciated the civilian and military, who are a professionals and move flexibly chance to finish my MOD career pleasure to work with. around assignments adding value; very lucky to in the post where I’m proudest of Timescales are funny things that we would attract the best and have had a career the difference I’ve made. here. It’s remarkable to think that, develop them over careers; and As an HR professional, the part when I joined, Sir Douglas Lowe that we’d have a healthy mix of supporting the I played in designing, building was about to retire from the job civilians, military and contractors armed forces and then running the MOD’s Sir Simon Bollom does now as working together to deliver the HR shared services is another CEO: Lowe had been a bomber programme. I hope we’d still opportunity that’s stayed with me pilot in the Second World War. have our freedoms – I’m not sure and again, not the kind you expect And there were still a few around everyone appreciates just how to get. Main Building who had been precious they are, and how fragile
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Helicopters | Aeronautics | Electronics, Defence & Security Systems | Space desider June 2018 News
Pictured: Land Ceptor during firing trials, picture credit MBDA
8 desider June 2018 News
British Army’s new air defence missile blasts airborne target by Baltic Sea
"The DE&S project team will continue to work closely with our suppliers to ensure this cutting-edge system provides an effective shield for UK troops as they, in turn, protect the UK’s security and interests” DE&S Director Weapons, Richard Smart
brand-new missile system at the heart of they, in turn, protect the UK’s security and interests.” the British Army’s future air defences has From the same family of weapons systems as Sea completed its first successful firing trials. Ceptor, which will defend the Royal Navy’s Type 23 ATrials of the new Land Ceptor weapon took place and Type 26 Frigates, Land Ceptor will provide the close to the Baltic Sea on a Swedish test fire range, stopping power within the cutting-edge Sky Sabre air with video footage showing a missile being launched defence system, and will equip 16th Regiment, Royal from a vehicle and destroying an aerial target in a Artillery. display of the new weapon’s accuracy and power. Land Ceptor is highly mobile, can be rapidly Built by MBDA, Land Ceptor comprises the deployed across challenging terrain, and be brought Common Anti-air Modular Missile, a launcher into action in less than 20 minutes. The missiles can vehicle and two fire unit support vehicles. It is being be launched in quick succession to defeat as many as developed to protect British troops on operations eight different threats at once, even if obstacles such from aerial threats, including hostile combat aircraft as trees and terrain are in the way. and air-launched munitions. Work to develop both Land Ceptor and Sea Ceptor The development and manufacture of Land Ceptor is sustaining 760 MBDA jobs in the UK. is enabled through a £250 million contract between Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson, who DE&S and MBDA. announced the successful trials, said: “In the face of DE&S Director Weapons, Richard Smart, said: intensifying threats, it is vital that our armed forces “This trials firing is an important stepping stone have the capabilities to keep Britain safe. towards bringing Land Ceptor into service with “Land Ceptor will be a formidable battlefield the British Army as part of the wider Sky Sabre air barrier, protecting our troops from strikes and enemy defence system. Land Ceptor performed as expected aircraft while on operations.” and the firing has helped us to verify innovative The system will now undergo further development modelling of overall system performance. and trials before Sky Sabre enters service, in the early “The DE&S project team will continue to work 2020s. closely with our suppliers to ensure this cutting-edge system provides an effective shield for UK troops as
9 desider June 2018 News In Brief
Confidence SALMO pay tribute to HMS Royal Oak crew boost The DE&S Salvage and Marine programme, which saw more than Operations (SALMO) team at 30 valves serviced and valuable DE&S staff have been helping DE&S conducted a memorial data on the steel thickness of the to boost teenagers’ interest in service following diving Royal Oak’s hull gathered, team Science, Technology, Engineering operations at Scapa Flow, Orkney. leader Jim Griffiths decided it and Mathematics (STEM). Members of the team from was only right that the team paid So far six STEM ambassadors Abbey Wood, Faslane and tribute to those that had been have led classes at Vinney Devonport visited the body of killed in the attack. Green Secure Children’s water in Scotland to continue Organised by former Royal Home in Emersons Green, the oil recovery process on HMS Navy diver Grant Lancaster, the South Gloucestershire, which Royal Oak. memorial, alongside crew from accommodates up to 24 young The Revenge-class battleship MV Cameron, saw a brief tribute boys and girls, aged between was torpedoed by a German read before a minute’s silence was 10 and 17, many of whom have submarine whilst anchored at held and a wreath laid directly committed serious crimes. Scapa Flow on October 14, 1939. over the wreck. A tot of rum or Within Vinney Green’s The attack resulted in 833 of the Scapa Malt whisky, to toast the environment of specialised ship’s 1,234 crew losing their lives. lost crew, concluded the service. help, DE&S is supporting the Following a successful diving youngsters develop a range of skills, build self-esteem, and changes in attitude. DE&S STEM ambassador Luke Sullivan said: “We were able to show that engineering is more than overalls and fixing vehicles, and how STEM makes a valuable contribution to society.” Rona Chellew, from Vinney Green Secure Children’s Home, said: “To have the support and engagement of an organisation such as DE&S is invaluable and has already proved a huge success with the young people here.” Chief of Materiel (Air) Air Marshal Julian Young, DE&S STEM Champion, said: “As an organisation, DE&S is committed to supporting and giving back to our local community.”
also apply to Royal Air Force and APS for Royal Navy capabilities. The research will address armoured both ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ kill Active Protection Systems, the first of vehicles which fires a projectile to defeat the missile while the second uses The DE&S Technology Office jamming and lasers to deal with is undertaking research to help the projectile. de-risk the potential introduction The work will help develop a of advanced survivability systems solution to offer both excellent onto armoured vehicles to better protection for the users of protect them against missile armoured vehicles and also attacks. increased situational awareness. The study, funded by Army Major Michael Lavelle, of the Headquaters, will see the team DE&S Technology Office team, identify the considerations for said: “This is incredibly important integrating Active Protection work to identify and present Systems (APS) to better protect our findings on systems that can troops on board armoured provide high-level protection vehicles including Ajax, to personnel on a wide range Challenger, Mastiff and Warrior. of platforms against a very real As part of the work, the team threat.” will describe the opportunities for the introduction of APS onto legacy and future UK armoured vehicles. It is also being investigated whether the cross-cutting technology could
10 desider June 2018 News In Brief
DVD2018 to take place in September DVD2018, which showcases the equipment and technology needed to support the British Army now and in an ever- changing future, takes place on September 19 and 20. The event, held at Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire, is jointly run by DE&S Land Equipment and Army HQ. It brings together the military, industry and the acquisition community for two days of informal discussions, engagement with users, briefings, seminars, demonstrations and live displays. Those attending will be able A RAF Typhoon flies over the RAF’s Air Defence Radar delivered by the DE&S Air Defence and Electronic Warfare Systems Team at Saxa Vord, on the Island of Unst, Shetland. to see a wide range of equipment that is fit to meet the future challenges faced by the British across the public, private and Army, produced by Defence DE&S joins voluntary sectors representing industry exhibitors who have in the region of 140,000 working embraced the need for continuous Employers for carers. adaption. DE&S staff can now access help For those involved in Carers group and guidance around subjects Land Equipment for Army including flexible working, costs Headquarters, DE&S and Front DE&S is the latest organisation of caring and where to seek Line Commands, DVD2018 to become a member of support. provides an ideal opportunity Employers for Carers (EfC) – a Richard Smart, Director to identify innovation, develop pioneering group of businesses Weapons and Champion of the ideas and generate a greater committed to supporting working DE&S Carers & Parents Network, understanding of technologies, carers. said: “Becoming a member of EfC capabilities and requirements. EfC’s key purpose is to ensure is a really positive step for DE&S, Major General Colin McClean, that employers have the support and reaffirms our commitment Director Land Equipment at to retain and manage employees to supporting our people and DE&S, said: “DVD2018 will who have responsibilities for promoting diversity and inclusion afford both customer and supplier caring for someone older, disabled throughout the organisation.” the opportunity to enhance our or seriously ill. For details of how to access shared understanding of the Launched in 2009, and backed EfC services please email DES- challenges that we face and to up by the specialist knowledge CarersandParentsNetwork@mod. generate solutions.” of Carers UK, EfC now has more gov.uk Visit www.theevent.co.uk/ for than 100 member organisations more information.
CoM Land meets with industry Lieutenant General Paul Jaques, Chief of Materiel (Land), has been meeting with industry teams delivering DE&S programmes in support of the UK’s armed forces. At MBDA in Bolton he inspected Meteor air-to-air missiles, held a semiconductor the size of a grain of sand and met younger personnel, including apprentices and graduates. At Pearson Engineering in Newcastle he met with members of the senior team, toured the company’s manufacturing facility and was shown mine-clearance equipment.
11 desider June 2018 Feature Meet the new CEO
Pictured: Sir Simon Bollom CEO Picture by: Jack Eckersley
12 desider June 2018 Feature Meet the new CEO You spent 36 years in the RAF – had you Commitment. We have a committed group of always wanted to serve your country? highly skilled people with great experience who rarely get the credit they deserve from the media. I consider To be perfectly honest I joined the RAF on a that at a team and individual level we have the people short service contract (five years) when I was still who are a match for anyone in the private sector. My at university because my father told me I needed to job is to provide the leadership and support to enable get a grip on life. But five years turned into 12 years us to realise our collective potential and before I knew it I had served 36 years and I can honestly say I thoroughly enjoyed it. Which of the transformation achievements are you most proud of? You are a familiar face at DE&S – what positions have you held here? I am a results sort of person. If you look at the numbers since 2014 the evidence that we have I first joined the Defence Logistics Organisation improved is clear in terms of outputs to the front line (DLO) as a deputy team leader on Tornado before and cost efficiencies. There is a lot of work to still do becoming team leader in 2005. My first role at but from my point of view we have now reached base the newly formed DE&S in 2008 was Director camp and have the solid foundations in place within Combat Air and in 2012 I was appointed Chief of the organisation to really push on which is what Materiel (Air). After three and a half years in that Defence expects us to do. I also think that we have role I ‘retired,’ only to return a year later as Chief of made significant progress on the people dimension, Materiel (Ships). but there is clearly much more to do. You retired in 2016 but came back just months What difference do you think this will make to later. What made you return? DE&S staff and the way they work? I never really retired. After going on holiday and Transformation is a two-way street. It’s about spending a bit of time in the garden I set myself up as upskilling our workforce so they can deliver what is an independent consultant and had great fun doing expected of us. But this is also about investing in our that. Then Tony Douglas rang me and asked if I people in terms of training and experience to develop fancied the role of Chief of Materiel (Ships). I missed them as individuals and their career opportunities. the buzz of running a large team and getting projects over the line. Ships is an exciting portfolio so I just What do you expect from DE&S employees? couldn’t say no. I’d like our workforce to remain dedicated and Why did you decide to apply for the role of to keep an open mind but above all I want them to CEO? feel confident in their ability to do their job. If they do that I’m sure that we will continue to deliver It’s not something I took lightly because it is a role the outputs that the front line need and to create a that comes with massive responsibility and one that positive and enjoyable working environment. consumes your life. But I spoke with my family and my wife, who, even though she had been looking What makes you laugh? forward to some stability after moving house 17 times Having a sense of humour is everything to me. in the 30 years we have been married, said that I had There is enough serious business in the world already. to go for it. Those I consider close friends said the Humour and friendships are vital to engender good same and at Christmas I finally made the decision to working relationships. apply. The people you would love to have at a dinner How do you think your previous roles will help party? inform your role as CEO? England rugby coach Eddie Jones, former I think the organisation is looking for continuity Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson and and I can provide some measure of that having Boris Johnson. It would be fun to compare leadership been in acquisition at every level since the late 80s. methods and have a laugh. Really importantly I was also part of the Executive team that helped devise the DE&S transformation Desert island book? programme so I understand what we are trying to I guess that would have to be Robinson Crusoe as do, and the context. The other part of it is on the it would give me lots of practical advice to surviving business side. I know the defence industry very well, on a desert island. The other would be Shogun by I know the CEOs, how they operate and how their James Clavell because it was the best holiday book I businesses operate. With my military background I have ever read. also understand our military customers so I believe I’m well equipped to take us forward. Hobbies? I just love my sport whether it’s cricket, hockey or Can you describe your leadership style? rugby - I’m a Bath season ticket holder. I also enjoy I’m a team person which is evident from my running and cycling. I just love being outside – it’s a professional background and on the sports field. great antidote to the pressures of work. Nothing gives me greater pleasure than being part of a team that does something really well. Now I have Favourite places? a new role in a team that I know well and it’s my job Home and Barbados. I went to Barbados just to make sure we weld ourselves into an effective unit after I ‘retired’ in 2016 and was lucky enough to go under my leadership and put the afterburners on. again recently for our 30th wedding anniversary. It’s beautiful and very relaxing. What most impresses you about DE&S employees?
13 desider June 2018 News
Defence Secretary announces £2.5bn investment in UK nuclear submarines Pictured: HMS Artful, the third of the Royal Navy’s new Astute Class attack submarines
he Ministry of Defence is in Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria The Defence Secretary said: the Royal Navy’s seven-strong investing a massive £2.5 where he opened the £100 million “This multi-billion-pound fleet of hunter-killer attack subs, billion to boost Britain’s state-of-the-art Central Yard investment in our nuclear the most powerful to ever enter Tsubmarine building projects. Facility building. submarines shows our unwavering British service, whilst our nuclear A total of £1.5 million will go on The building, which, at 26,700 commitment to keeping the UK deterrent is the ultimate defence building the Royal Navy’s seventh metres squared, is equivalent safe and secure from intensifying against the most extreme dangers Astute hunter-killer submarine, in size to 21 Olympic-sized threats. Agincourt will complete we could possibly face. which will be called Agincourt - swimming pools and, at 45 metres “Not only is this a massive the sixth vessel in the Royal Navy high, is as tall as ten double- boost for our armed forces, but to be named after the Battle of decker buses, will be used to outfit it’s huge for Barrow, the heart Agincourt of 1415. and test each section of the new of sub-building in this country. Another £960 million will go to Dreadnought submarines. This news supports 8,000 BAE the second phase of construction Systems’ submarine jobs, as well for the UK’s four nuclear-armed as thousands more in the supply Dreadnought submarines. chain, protecting prosperity and The work will sustain around providing opportunity right across 8,000 jobs in BAE Systems’ the country.” Submarine business, 700 at Rolls- The Submarine Delivery Royce in Derby and thousands Agency, which was established more across the UK submarine in April, will project manage supply chain. the construction of future Royal The announcements were Navy submarines, and support made by Defence Secretary Gavin those in-service, working with Williamson on 14 May when he Navy Command and the Defence visited BAE Systems’ shipyard Nuclear Organisation. Chief Executive Officer of the Submarine Delivery Agency, Ian Booth said: “The incredibly complex Astute and Dreadnought This multi-billion-pound programmes maximise the investment in our tremendously skilled and nuclear submarines experienced workforce we have shows our unwavering across the UK submarine business. “Both programmes require commitment to keeping commitment and close the UK safe and secure collaboration with our industrial from intensifying partners across the supply threats chain and in the newly formed Dreadnought Alliance, which will Defence Secretary Gavin deliver a step change in how we Williamson will work together to efficiently and effectively deliver nuclear submarines for the Royal Navy.”
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desider June 2018 Feature
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16 desider June 2018 News
DE&S deliver first unmanned minesweeping system to Royal Navy Pictured: The autonomous minesweeper system in action in Weymouth Harbour (Picture by: Jack Eckersley)
n autonomous “The autonomous minesweeper behalf of DE&S, Alex du Pré, minesweeper system that offers a commander the ability Mine Countermeasures and can clear sea lanes of mines to defeat mines that cannot be I am extremely Hydrographic Capability (MHC) Awithout putting sailors at risk has countered by current hunting team leader, said: “This has been pleased with how we been handed over to the Royal techniques and significantly have worked closely a proud moment for the team, as Navy. reduces the risk to crew members with industry and the there has been a lot of hard work Following a period of in pressured and time-constrained to get the project to this point. I successful trials led by DE&S, the operations, allowing the Royal customer to deliver am extremely pleased with how we demonstrator system could go on Navy to respond better to the sea- a system we are very have worked closely with industry to be used by the Royal Navy in mine threat in the long-term.” pleased with and the customer to deliver a the future to defeat the threat of The system consists of an system we are very pleased with.” modern digital mines. 11-metre-long (36 ft) unmanned Alex du Pré, DE&S Mine Now in the hands of the Navy, The system has been designed surface vessel towing three Countermeasures and the system will undergo a series of Hydrographic Capability and manufactured by Dorset coil-auxiliary boats equipped more detailed trials in Scotland. (MHC) team leader based Atlas Elektronik UK, under with electrodes and sensors for Brigadier Jim Morris Royal a £13 million contract which has detonating mines. Marines, Assistant Chief of Staff, sustained around 20 jobs and The innovative and modernised Maritime Capability, and Senior created 15 new jobs with the technology is designed to defeat Responsible Officer for the MHC company. digital sea mines, which can detect programme, said: “The team from Neal Lawson, Director Ships and target warships as they pass DE&S that have worked on this Support at DE&S, said: “I started overhead. In addition, it has the programme have been fantastic. my MOD career 29 years ago ability to sense and avoid other It has required team work, at Bincleaves in Dorset and I’m vessels and navigation hazards, honest and frank discussion and delighted that is where we are and can work with other robotic compromise all the way.” marking the handover of this systems in coordinated exercises. critical programme. Handing over the system on
17 desider June 2018 News
Pictured: Commando Merlin MK4 Pictured by: Beth Squire
18 desider June 2018 News
Defence Minister welcomes first of new Carrier-ready Marine helicopter fleet
The Commando Merlin Mk4 has been upgraded to a faster and more powerful aircraft than its predecessor
efence Minister Guto Bebb announced deliver troops and supplies from sea to land. the delivery of the first of a fleet of new Mr Bebb said: “This fleet will deliver troops and helicopters designed for Royal Marine aircraft supplies to the centre of the action, be that a conflict Dcarrier operations. zone or the site of a humanitarian disaster, as well as Mr Bebb was speaking at Royal Naval Air Station providing search and rescue cover.” Yeovilton, where the helicopters will be based when The Commando Merlin Mk4 aircraft are being not out on operations. delivered through a £388 million contract between The helicopter, known as the Commando Merlin DE&S and Leonardo Helicopters, supporting 175 Mk4, has been upgraded to a faster and more skilled jobs at Leonardo in Yeovil, and a further 500 powerful aircraft than its predecessor. It now sports a across the UK supply chain. maritime grey coat, has a folding main rotor and tail, DE&S Director Helicopters, Air Vice-Marshal upgraded flight controls and a tactical computer. Graham Russell, said: “Today underscores that DE&S The modifications are designed to ensure it can and their industrial partners are delivering. And now operate from sea, and it will take off from ships delivering more with less, thanks to our effective including the UK’s new 65,000-tonne aircraft carrier, change programme and fantastic staff. HMS Queen Elizabeth. “We look forward to all 25 aircraft being fully DE&S Merlin team leader, Captain Kieran operational by 2023. DE&S will also ensure the O’Brien, said: “The delivery of the first Merlin HC Commando Merlin are supported with a full training Mk4 to the Royal Navy Commando Helicopter and support solution, so they are always available to Force is a fantastic achievement. It reflects on the be deployed across the globe.” outstanding efforts of my team and the strong The delivery will allow air crews to familiarise relationships we have with our wider stakeholders, themselves with the Commando Merlin before they particularly Leonardo Helicopters and the Royal enter service, expected in the summer. They have Navy. I’m immensely proud of my team and thank been acquired to replace the veteran Sea Kings. them for their continuing dedication and passion in supporting our armed forces.” A total of 25 Commando Merlin aircraft will be delivered to the air wing of the Royal Marines – the Commando Helicopter Force – who will use them to
19 desider June 2018 First Person Picture by: Jack Eckersley Picture Picture: Jack Eckersley Picture:
20 Picture: Jack Eckersley DE&S isdeliveryfocusedandsafetydriven Environmental Protection group. Hisjobistoensure James IngeisdeputyheadintheQuality, Safetyand symposium unique safety,On training and a interesting? exciting, rewarding or or rewarding exciting, teamwork? What about your role is is role your about What involve? role your does What How important to you is is you to important How support our armed forces. doing amazing things to help forever coming across people huge variety of projects. You’re across organisation, the the seeing workingto be with people from environment. It interesting is also through safeguarding the our customers safe and indirectly better, directly by both keeping It’s about all making people’s lives that’s for true role. particularly this differencealways is rewarding, and goals. achieve these tools and training to needed environment; and guidance, the adverseminimal impact on the for our customers to use, with winning capabilities that are safe deliverthem and support battle- and to direction help needed our jobto give people policy the and safetyfocused driven. It’s DE&S strives delivery to be environmental management. point for acquisition safety and that provides DE&S the focal deputy team the head, Ilead Environmental Protection (SEP) the functionsthe too, and it’s also contributionsneeds from across Deliveringexperiences. our output differentbackgrounds and amixofneeds people with and beyond, getting right them Submarinethe Agency Delivery Information Systems &Services, acrossused whole the of DE&S, SEPthe team’s products are without teamwork. Because Knowing your work makes a As Safety the and Our roleOur would impossible be desider June2018 First Person 21 it. transformation? every two years. Tell us about about us Tell years. two every job? your DE&S? in career a What is your view on on view your is What Defence Safety Authority. and stakeholders external like the operatingcolleagues inthe centres wevital work together with our DE&S holds its flagship ESAS ESAS flagship its holds DE&S about enjoy most you do What pursue to choose you did Why esas2018.co.uk/) over twodays 500 people attend ESAS (https:// Symposium (ESAS). Environmental &Safety Assurance or events like Safety Day and the guidance and formal training, throughwhether providing develop themselves professionally, job is able being to help people upskilling. Agreat of part this professional development and big advocate of continuing back. Scheme. Afterthat I never looked Student Engineer Training student, Iapplied to MOD’s the of benefits being a of sponsored hearing praise their for myriad the to auniversity open day. After mentor his son was who taking GroupEngineering &Sciences and bumped into aDefence Engineering after leavingschool perform well is going to time. take making our processes new moreskills effectively. However, priorities and to our use people’s ableagile: to react quicker to new make us more will embedded transformation becoming more Hosted at Abbey Wood, over I love I’m learning, so a I was planning to study I am optimistic that people expect? people Challenges’ so what can can what so Challenges’ theme is ‘Disruptive World World ‘Disruptive is theme This year the symposium’s symposium’s the year This challenges of defence. better understand and needs the environmental impacts, and to manage equipment safety and share insights new into how to It’s achance for to everyone practice and building networks. is about upskilling, sharing best to network, and learn share. ESAS defence, and academia industry event of its kind. It brings together environment, it’s only the UK and 19.Focusing on safety and your project! there’sso to time put still forward nomination is July deadline 31, environmental management. The awards for innovation insafety and Safety Management, we’re offering International Institute of Risk and Engineering and Technology and challenges. With Institution the of toneeds change to these meet we’ll address also how DE&S tools and And methodologies. systems, and developments in technologies such as autonomous threat to safety, cyber the new on topics like impact the of assurance. We’ll have speakers for safety and environmental explore challenges the poses this real change. We want ESAS to we’reuncertain, of inaperiod to develop and of detail the Brexit emerging, regulation continuing suchIntelligence as Artificial – this year this it’s September 18 With technologies new desider June 2018 News
CEO commendations highlight remarkable achievements Pictured: Interim CEO Michel Bradley presented the awards (Pictures by: Andrew Linnett)
he inspirational DE&S • Helen Wheatley – UK analysis to prove the validity CEO Commendation Military Flying Training of his concept, developed it awards, which celebrate Awards highlighting System (UKMFTS) Team – and created the wider-system Tthe efforts and achievements of its recognising her role in leading framework for successful some of the truly remarkable workforce, took Transformation across DE&S implementation. place in London at MOD Main exceptional personal through her remarkable, path- achievements from • Rory Grehan - recognising Building. finding work on the UKMFTS his outstanding performance The annual ceremony provides individuals in DE&S, Delivery Team, which has within a specialist the opportunity for senior leaders included: enabled other DE&S teams environment in the delivery of and customers to come together to benefit from a smoother a multinational programme to and thank some of the excellent → Transformation journey. a demanding customer. teams and employees at DE&S for • Geoff Forder – Queen • Ashish Raichura – Fast their outstanding contribution to Elizabeth Class Platform defence. Air Support Team – for his Systems Team – showcasing innovative and persistent Michael Bradley, who presented his role in delivering long the awards as interim CEO approach to a potentially term and first-class service serious issue with aircraft at DE&S, told the assembled to the Royal Navy’s support audience: “Whether you’re cryptographic material, organisation. Leadership in where he produced a solution delivering radars, in the Outer the development of a support Hebrides or you’re delivering that has not just benefitted solution for the nation’s Typhoon but other Air corporate dashboards in Abbey aircraft carriers, which Wood – you’re all my heroes. Systems as well, focusing exemplified the virtues and on delivering airworthy and You do some absolutely fantastic behaviours of DE&S. work and we’re very proud of you, operational capability. wherever you work in DE&S.” • Lieutenant Rob Du Feu In his closing remarks Michael Award winners were recognised (Royal Navy) – Lynx Wildcat said: “I always come out of these across the delivery and support Project Team – for improving events with a spring in my step, elements of the organisation, the management of Wildcat having listened to all the things something Michael said he was engines to deliver cost you’ve been doing inspires me and “delighted” with, as support reductions projected at more I know the rest of the Executive areas “don’t always get the same than £100 million through team come out of these events headlines as those in the delivery life. Identifying a potential feeling the same, thank you for teams.” improvement opportunity, he everything.” conducted an evidence-based
22 desider June 2018 News
Teams recognised • Fixed Wing Manned Airborne Surveillance – Defender/Islander Future Capability Team
• P3M Pilot Delivery Teams
• DE&S Ships Warship Support
• UK Military Flying Training System Project Team – Certification Team
• Families Section, Defence Support Chain Operations and Movements Team Geoff Forder • Operation RUMAN Team
• Security Awareness Team
• Aircraft Carrier Alliance Client Team
• Embedding Change Team
• Support Chain Finance Team
• Internal Technical Support Team
• Dismounted Close Combat Team
• Special Projects Search and Counter Measures Team
• Land Domain P3M Super User Team
• Corporate Performance Aircraft Carrier Alliance Client Team and Risk and Business Intelligence Hub
• Reactor Production Team
• Project Professional Graduates, Apprentices and Interns Team
• Defence Munitions Gosport – Complex Weapons Processing Team
• DE&S Future Cruise/Anti- Ship Weapons Team
• Air Defence and Electronic Warfare – SAXA VORD Team
• Medical Counter Measures In-Service Delivery Team
• Special Projects Information Systems and Networks Team
Lieutenant • Vehicle Demonstration Rob Du Feu Insourcing Customer Support Team
23 desider June 2018 News
£850M Sea Ceptor missile system enters service with the Royal Navy Pictured: Sea Ceptor undergoing trials on HMS Montrose
world-class missile system procured by DE&S that will protect the Royal ANavy’s new aircraft carriers has Richard Smart, Director officially entered service. Weapons at DE&S, said: “Sea Sea Ceptor provides a powerful Ceptor’s entry into service with shield against airborne threats, the Royal Navy is a significant including hostile combat jets, milestone, a massive achievement helicopters and other missiles, for everyone involved and a proud and has been developed and moment for the team. manufactured through contracts “It’s really exciting to be agreed by DE&S worth around delivering a new capability that £850 million. The missile system will be will form part of the protection for carried by the Royal Navy’s the new aircraft carriers and will Type 23 frigates, and has been help to keep our service personnel successfully demonstrated through and our country safe.” a trials and test firing campaign Sea Ceptor has been designed that started last year. and manufactured by MBDA and The announcement was made is directly supporting 600 jobs by Defence Secretary Gavin in Bristol, Stevenage and Bolton Williamson at the RUSI Sea Power as part of the Team Complex Conference in London, where he Weapons partnering agreement said: “Sea Ceptor will protect our between MOD and MBDA. nation against the intensifying threats we face today and in the future, giving our ships a powerful shield against everything, from supersonic missiles to enemy fighter jets. “Fitting our warships with this Sea Ceptor’s entry into ground-breaking technology not only protects our Navy but service with the Royal shows we are world leaders at sea. Navy is a significant HMS Argyll will be the first ship milestone, a massive to deploy with this cutting-edge achievement for system when she heads to support everyone involved and peace and security in the Asia a proud moment for the Pacific region later this year.” team Sea Ceptor is a major improvement on the existing Richard Smart, Director Seawolf missile system which is Weapons at DE&S being replaced. It offers improved performance against current and projected future threats, the ability to engage multiple targets and allows the frigates to protect escorted vessels. The system is to be fitted to the Royal Navy’s new Type 26 frigates.
24 desider June 2018 News
Dambusters hero 'Johnny' Johnson visits DE&S Pictured: The 96-year-old is welcomed at MOD Abbey Wood by new CEO Sir Simon Bollom (Picture by: Jack Eckersley)
quadron Leader ‘Johnny’ and determination, of how the There were presentations from Johnson MBE DFM, ‘the last Dambusters learnt quickly through Exemplars and the Embedding British Dambuster’ visited Johnny was as a period of intense practice to use Change Team on how they, with SDE&S for the closing session of engaging as ever the bouncing bombs, with the the Change Advocate Network, Learning at Work Week. and spoke with real specially adapted Lancaster, flying will help teams understand and Johnny, who was greeted at passion about his time at 60 feet. On the 10th pass Johnny adopt the new ways of working MOD Abbey Wood by CEO in the RAF. Everyone dropped the bomb damaging the and embed transformation. Sir Simon Bollom and Rupert Sorpe Dam. Katie Sloggett, DE&S Head of there was inspired by McNeil, Cabinet Office Chief 617 Squadron is to be reformed Talent, said: “Learning at Work People Officer, is the last surviving his story with the RAF F-35 Lightning Week was incredibly successful British member of 617 Squadron, Katie Sloggett, DE&S II. Based at RAF Marham, they and we were delighted it was so famous for Operation Chastise, the Head of Talent will operate from HMS Queen well attended. We hope employees "Dambusters", 16-17 May 1943, 75 Elizabeth. now have a greater awareness years ago. Learning at Work Week is a of the opportunities to learn Johnny shared his experience national annual event with the across DE&S and will create of being part of this famous raid theme this year of ‘networked their personal development plans using the ‘bouncing bomb’ to for learning.’ Attendees heard with this in mind. Johnny was as destroy fiercely protected dams from the Talent & Learning engaging as ever and spoke with in the industrial heartland of team, professional bodies and real passion about his time in the the Ruhr Valley. The raid was interest groups about learning RAF. Everyone there was inspired considered a success, with 11 opportunities that contribute by his story.” factories destroyed by flood to personal and professional waters. Tragically, around 1300 development. were killed, 53 of the 133 airmen In addition Talent & Learning did not return and 8 of 19 aircraft launched the DE&S Way to were lost. Learning Strategy, providing a Johnny told a compelling comprehensive guide for the first story of bravery, camaraderie time.
25 desider June 2018 News
DE&S conclude sale of two C130J to Bangladesh Pictured: A C130J Hercules transport aircraft operated by the Royal Air Force flying over the Norwegian countryside
he Defence Equipment advisors and attachés based A successful sale would not Sales Authority (DESA) has around the world showed This is great example have been possible without concluded the sale of two substantial interest from foreign of DESA and the the commitment from teams Tex-RAF C-130J Mark 5 transport governments to acquire the aircraft within DE&S, the wider MOD, wider defence aircraft to the Bangladesh Air and a dedicated bidders conference team delivering a other government departments Force. was held in the spring of 2016. successful sale, and UK industry partners. In Clive Walker, Head DESA, This innovative route to market satisfying a valued particular, praise must go to the which is based at MOD Abbey secured positive results and, after new customer and members of the C-130J Project Wood and Bicester, signed the detailed discussions with a number securing significant Team and British Defence Staff in formal Sales Agreement in of potential customers, Bangladesh benefits for UK plc Washington for their perseverance Bangladesh last month. emerged as the front runner for a when asked to respond to The sale will deliver a significant successful sale. Clive Walker very short notice requests for financial return to the front line Subsequently, DESA arranged Head DESA information. command, increase defence inward visits by the Bangladesh The acquisition of C-130J will engagement opportunities as a delegation to Marshall Aerospace enable the Bangladesh Air Force to result of DESA sales activity and and Defence Group, Cambridge enhance their airlift capability and provide opportunities for British (the C-130J fleet support carry out tasks within the country industry as part of the prosperity contractor) and undertook a visit and overseas in support of UN agenda. to Bangladesh earlier this year to missions. The signature of the Sales develop the relationship between Agreement marks the successful the two countries and secure the conclusion of the DESA marketing sale. activity to sell C-130J aircraft Clive Walker said: “This is made available for disposal great example of DESA and the following the review of the air wider defence team delivering a transport requirements under successful sale, satisfying a valued the 2015 Strategic Defence and new customer and securing Security Review. significant benefits for the UK.” Initial indications secured via the DESA network of Defence
26 desider June 2018 News
New Phenom jet joins RAF training fleet Pictured: Flight Lieutenant Jon O'Rourke and Ascent instructor Matt Coverley took Phenom on its first flight
he first Phenom jet – part of DE&S’ £1.1 billion This is a great leap upgraded pilot-training Tfleet – has undergone its maiden forward in training and flying technology training flight from RAF Cranwell. The aircraft is used all over the Cdre Tom Manson, world principally as a civilian of the DE&S UKMFTS, executive jet and is considered to team be very flexible and capable. Phenom is equipped with a modern glass cockpit and avionics suite which, paired with high- tech simulators which replicate the cockpit of the aircraft on the ground, makes the transition to advanced Front Line operational aircraft quicker and easier for 2008 with Ascent Flight Training at RAF Cranwell and, on April students, thus driving down the to design, deliver and manage the 16, RAF pilot instructor Flight time they spend in training as well full range of military flight training Lieutenant Jon O’Rourke took the as cutting costs. for all three Services until 2033 aircraft on its first flight, alongside Trainee pilots using Phenom under the UK Military Flying Ascent instructor Matt Coverley. will learn the skills that will allow Training System (UKMFTS). Flt Lt O’Rourke said: “We’re them to graduate to multi-engine Cdre Tom Manson, of the DE&S going to be the envy of other RAF transporters and tanker UKMFTS, team: said: “This is nations in terms of bringing aircraft such as Atlas, C130J, a great leap forward in training our students up to date with the Voyager, BAe 146 and C17, as well and flying technology, with its modern avionics that are in the as the intelligence and surveillance advanced glass cockpit featuring 5th generation aircraft and I see platforms such as Sentry, Sentinel, latest navigation and situational us leading the way with flying Rivet Joint and Shadow, and the awareness tools, greatly improving training into a more modern era." resurgent maritime patrol pilot the training provision". requirement for the future P8 Under UKMFTS, multi-engine Poseidon fleet. pilot training will be conducted DE&S placed a contract in May on the Phenom by 45 Squadron
27 desider June 2018 News
State-of-the-art facility opened in support of our armed forces Pictured: Major General Colin McLean, DE&S Director Land Equipment, officially opens the state-of-the-art facility
ajor General Colin million for the tax payer over the aimed at ensuring the men and McLean, Director Land duration of the deal. This exceptional women of our armed forces have Equipment at DE&S, Maj Gen McClean was joined the equipment needed to carry out Mtravelled to North Wales to at the site by Nick Taylor, DE&S facility will ensure their difficult and often dangerous officially open a state-of-the-art Soldier, Training and Special our armed services job. facility enabling surveillance and Programmes team leader, other have the surveillance The development of the new target acquisition support. MOD, VIPs and industry partners and target acquisition facility, built next to the current Qioptiq’s new £3.7 million and the senior leadership team devices they require, Qioptiq plant on the St Asaph facility will be used to support the at Qioptiq, where he unveiled a be it in training or on Business Park, was helped by repair, maintenance and logistical commemorative plaque to mark its the battlefield, today investment from the Welsh management of in-service official opening. Government. dismounted surveillance and target He said: “This exceptional and in the future. Peter White, Managing acquisition (and engagement) facility will ensure our armed Director at Qioptiq, said, “For this Major General Colin equipment supplied and used services have the surveillance and McLean, Director Land opportunity we acknowledged we across the armed forces. target acquisition devices they Equipment needed to take a more collaborative It has been built to assist the require, be it in training or on at DE&S approach. This has helped secure £83 million MOD surveillance and the battlefield, today and in the a major contract from UK MOD target acquisition support contract, future. DE&S worked innovatively to support equipment vital to the which was awarded to Qioptiq in with industry and our customer safety of our soldiers in front line 2017. to secure an exceptional solution operations.” The deal sees battle-winning that has resulted in a reduction equipment – including night- of cost to the tax payer, as well as vision goggles and day and night securing the future of a world-class weapon sights – maintained engineering capability here in the over the next six years, to ensure United Kingdom.” they are available to personnel Following the opening, the around the globe. By merging group undertook a tour to view 20 individual support contracts equipment and the facility’s many into one, the MOD will save £47 unique and innovative features,
28 desider June 2018 Feature
29 desider June 2018 News
British Army vehicles damaged on operations undergo successful regeneration Pictured: Brigadier Simon Hamilton, Head of DE&S' Vehicle Support Team, receives the final keys from CCE managing director Michelle Walker
lmost 30 British Army Brigadier Hamilton said: “I of engineers and the opportunity vehicles severely damaged am very pleased to be able to to tender for the contract was a during operations in mark the success of a programme I am very pleased challenge we could not decline. AIraq and Afghanistan have been that has delivered true value to be able to mark “We feel a great deal of pride repaired. to the British Army whilst the success of a at being able to work alongside Commercial Contract Engineers partnering with an innovative programme that has DE&S and fully contribute to this (CCE) in Rochdale were awarded British company. A challenging delivered true value hugely successful project. a contract worth in the region engineering requirement has been to the British Army “Handing over the keys to the of £2 million to repair 28 Heavy completed to time and cost due whilst partnering with final HET was a proud and special Equipment Transporters (HET), to considerable effort from all moment for everybody involved in an innovative British vehicles that are used to transport involved.” this programme.” armoured vehicles, such as tanks, The six-year regeneration company into war zones. programme started in 2012 and Brigadier Simon Hamilton, The contract was placed with saw the vehicles fully stripped, DE&S Vehicle Support CCE by Fasttrax Ltd under a repaired and rebuilt. Team head requirement placed on them by As a result, CCE has expanded DE&S. its premises and in 2016 the To mark the successful company invested £1 million in an completion of the regeneration/ adjacent site featuring a 11,000sq ft refurbishment contract, Brigadier workshop, office and car park. Simon Hamilton, the head of the The repaired vehicles are now Vehicle Support Team at DE&S, going straight back into service, travelled to Rochdale to receive the with 15 immediately deploying on keys from the final repaired vehicle Exercise Saif Seria 3 in Oman. from CCE Managing Director Phil Ewbank, Chairman of CCE, Michelle Walker. said: “CCE has a dedicated team
30 desider June 2018 Feature
DE&S’ Lisa awarded Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service for the second time Pictured: Lisa Gardner, who has been awarded the Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service for the second time (Picture by: Andrew Linnett)
E&S employee Lisa adrenalin for much of the tour, weapons against Daesh. Gardner says she is working between 12 and 18 hours She said: “My last tour focused In an operational “absolutely delighted” a day. Everyone’s in the same boat on helping the Iraqi Security headquarters, Dafter being awarded the Queen's though, and it’s teamwork that gets Forces to liberate Mosul, where everyone pulls in Commendation for Valuable you through the difficult days.” many civilians were still present. the same direction Service – for the second time. Lisa was awarded her first Fierce fighting in difficult and focuses on Lisa, who is assistant head in commendation following her circumstances required support operational success corporate operations, has done second tour to Afghanistan as from the air and our policies had Lisa Gardner three six-month tours as a policy part of Operation Herrick in 2013, to evolve to keep pace with the advisor to the UK armed forces. when she was policy advisor for challenges this presented. Policy advisors are deployed Commander Task Force Helmand “We weren’t on the front line, on operations in support of the during the final stages of the but the imagery in the Combined military Commander. They are Army’s presence in the country. Air Operations Centre allowed the part of the senior team and work In 2010, Lisa undertook the team to see very clearly what was closely with legal advisors and same role but in a very different happening on the ground. There other specialists to ensure UK operational climate, as British was never a sense of detachment Forces operate within legal and Forces were still heavily engaged in from the operation.” policy parameters. They also play a fighting the Taliban. Lisa added: “In an operational key role in ensuring ministers back And she has been recognised headquarters, everyone pulls in in the UK are kept fully briefed again following her latest tour, the same direction and focuses about events. which saw Lisa operate from on operational success. I take real Lisa said: “It’s an extremely an American Air Force base in pride in having been part of a great challenging role and you’re on call the Middle East, where she was team and in being recognised for 24/7. The duty phone can go off deployed in December 2016 with the role I played.” in the middle of the night when the RAF. you’re least expecting it, but those As part of Operation Shader, are often the most interesting Lisa was policy advisor to the UK times because you know you’ll be Air Component Commander, who dealing with an urgent issue. was in charge of determining how “You can be running on UK air assets would employ their
31 desider June 2018 60 Seconds
60 second spotlight “I don’t have a favourite place. As long as I’m on holiday and have my family around me it doesn’t matter where we are”
Kevin Wade Job: Cost estimator within Project Controls Function
Your route into DE&S? Having seen Abbey Wood get built on my doorstep, it made perfect sense to look at the careers on offer. The job I was in at the time was a fixed term contract and time was running out. My dad was working at Rolls-Royce in their reliability department so I was always involved with helicopters and aircraft. He suggested I apply for a ‘job for life’.
Your claim to fame? Not necessarily a claim to fame, but something I am proud of. When I got involved with my current football club they didn’t have a penny to their name. Any money coming in went straight out, playing pitch fees and other bills. Within two seasons, I have taken on the chairman role and treasury role and the club had She is an IVF baby, so although I don’t have a favourite place. As £5,000 in the bank. at the time there were lots of long as I’m on holiday and have stresses and strains for my wife my family around me it doesn’t Do you or Your advice to anyone? and me, it was all worth it in the matter where we are. someone you Find a job/career you enjoy. So end. What would surprise people much time is spent in work, don’t know deserve their If you were sent to a desert about you? waste your life doing a job which island, what three things 60 seconds in the you don’t enjoy. Outside of work, I am manager of the MOD would you take with you? keep your family close. Friends National 11-a-side football team. spotlight? come and go but family sticks My family, as they are the most I currently have 100+ players that Email with you. I have a great family important part of my life (my are keen to be involved within [email protected] around me and we regularly get wife is an excellent cook so we the setup, which makes for good together for holidays, meals and wouldn’t starve). A basic survival healthy competition but, as with parties. kit to help make fire, chop wood, any successful team, I am always etc. Third thing would be my looking to improve the standard. What do you do when you’re iPhone. Not only does it have all We play in the highly acclaimed away from work? my music on it, but I would also Lewis Cup each year and have I have a wife and daughter, so be able to keep up-to-date with got the team to the final at that keeps me pretty busy. We football scores, my daughter Fleetwood Town Football Club in have recently bought a caravan, would be able to watch Peppa five of the last six years, winning so we’ll no doubt be visiting local Pig and we’d be able to take lots it twice. We are in the final again seaside towns in the not too of pictures to look back at when this year. distant future. I am also chairman we finally got rescued. If you are interested in and treasurer of a football club, What irritates you the most? representing the MOD at which takes up every spare football please get in touch at minute I have, but I love it. Rude and/or selfish people. [email protected] What are you most proud of? What is your favourite place in the world? I am most proud of my daughter.
32 desider June 2018 News
A400M Atlas gains full aeromedical capability 60 second spotlight Pictured: The Tactical Medical Wing demonstrate the aeromedical evacuation capability of the Atlas
oyal Air Force A400M civilians, as part of a humanitarian Airbus UK and the Joint Air Atlas, the RAF’s newest operation. Delivery Test & Evaluation Unit transport aircraft, has CCAST provides care equivalent I am delighted that we at RAF Brize Norton to make Rachieved full aeromedical to that found in an NHS Intensive at DE&S have helped this milestone a reality; we look evacuation capability for high Care Unit, including intubation develop and deliver forward to continuing to support dependency and highly infectious and ventilation. The same this crucial capability this capability and the RAF’s patients. CCAST equipment is used as on on the Atlas critical care airborne medical Reaching this new milestone the Voyager transport aircraft, teams into the future.” represents another important which has minimised the cost James Fitzmaurice, A400M James Fitzmaurice, A400M trials step forward for DE&S’ Atlas of integration and reduced the DE&S trials manager manager said: “I am delighted that programme, which is delivering training burden. we at DE&S have helped develop vital air transport solutions for the The Atlas also supports the Air and deliver this crucial capability RAF. Transportable Isolator (ATI) which on the Atlas. This aircraft will During a recent demonstration is a secure high-tech plastic bubble greatly enhance the RAF’s ability to senior RAF Officers, the Tactical that allows patients with high to conduct medical operations in Medical Wing (TMW) based at consequence infectious diseases tactical environments and on the RAF Brize Norton showed the to be transported safely without international stage.” impressive aeromedical evacuation infecting others. Once landed, Wing Commander Robert capability of the Atlas. the ATI patient is transported Linfield, a consultant on public The A400M can carry up to to hospital (usually the Royal health for the RAF, added: “We’re 66 low to medium dependency Free Hospital in London) by very excited to have the ATI on the stretcher patients or four high ambulance. A400M, as it significantly expands dependency stretcher patients. James Dowson, Atlas team our capability both strategically The Critical Care Air Support leader at DE&S, said: “DE&S and tactically.” Team (CCAST) are part of TMW personnel have worked very and provide specialist care for closely with the main user, the seriously wounded or critically ill RAF’s Tactical Medical Wing, and military personnel from the front a range of supportive stakeholders line anywhere in the world or to from the active A400M Squadrons,
33 desider June 2018 People Pages Women's Network display Suffrage Centenary Flag
Girlguiding group led by two DE&S he MOD Women’s Network South West (MWN) had the privilege of displaying employees has received a cash boost to help the Suffrage Centenary Flag after it arrived at MOD Abbey Wood as part of a Afulfil their dream of transforming an old red celebratory relay. telephone box into a toy library for local children. T In March’s edition of Desider we reported that the The Suffrage Flag Relay started earlier this year and the flag is on a whistle-stop tour of Civil Service sites across the UK to commemorate the courage of the Suffragette movement 2nd Stoke Gifford Rainbows, led by Alix Evans and and celebrate the role of women and progressing diversity across the modern Civil Service. Michelle Picton, had obtained permission to do the The relay is also aimed at marking 100 years since women got the right to vote, increasing work but needed help to complete the task. young people's knowledge of UK democracy and aspiring to achieve gender parity in local And they are now on the brink of success after and national politics by the centenary of the Equal Franchise Act in 2028. winning second prize and £2,000 in the Airbus Organisations hosting the flag hold events and discussions on gender equality. MWN held Community Awards. a celebratory event on April 25, which was visited by more than 100 members. Once completed the phone box will be filled with MWN co-leads Deborah Hooper and Sara Enos later met with the Environment Agency toys and books donated by members of 2nd Stoke at the Clifton Suspension Bridge and handed over the Suffrage Centenary Flag for the next Gifford Rainbows. stage of its relay around the UK. For more information on MWN, please email Deborah or Sarah, who are especially keen to encourage male allies to join the network and contribute to projects.
embers of the Vehicle up and tired hands to prove Support Team (VST) it! Tremendous fun was had Mat DE&S seized an and lessons learned by all who opportunity to conduct some attended.” team bonding at the Bloc indoor Brigadier Simon Hamilton, climbing centre in Bristol. Head of the VST, actively Twelve members of the team, encourages these types of events headed up by Emma Downer, to take place outside of the work spent an afternoon helping and setting to diversify the learning coaching each other up a series of environment and strengthen climbing challenges. networks. With a wide range of climbing abilities, it was a chance for team members to show a different style of support not seen in the workplace. Staff Sergeant Matthew Bavington said: “The afternoon was a great success, with chalked-
34 desider June 2018 People Pages
the MOD Lottery February Praise bee for MOTTO winners
£10,000 Sue Joy, Peterborough DE&S success £2,500 Andrew Sargent, Alnwick E&S Donnington have been DE&S Donnington has hosted a Mason £1,000 Kay Atkins, Catterick successfully working with the bee nest for a number of summers and, as £500 Danielle Rigby, Northallerton Dcharity Praise Bee to reverse the a result of this success, Mason bees from £250 Neil Patterson, Gilsland decline in the UK’s bee population. Donnington will now be waking up in RAF Insects, particularly bees, are vital to Halton. £100 Chantelle Edwards, Bicester support all plant life through pollination Lee Sanderson, from the Occupational Paola Hayes, Gosport and ultimately underpin much of the food Health, Safety and Environment Function Ronald Card, Hull production in the UK. at DE&S, said: “This sort of work continues Carole Tosh, ABW Recognising the MOD as a major land to strengthen the Mason bee gene pool owner, the charity have been working and subsequently promotes a healthy Graeme Hughes, Winchester in partnership with the Government population.” Ishbel Freeman, Bicester department. Plans are now in place to develop a bee Ian Hills, Whitehall The charity identified the Mason bee as meadow at Donnington – the first that an ideal species to use in this programme, Praise Bee has created on MOD land. Stephen Cooke, Birmingham given that it has no sting and doesn’t Helen Smart, ABW www.praisebee.org.uk/ produce honey. Equally, the Mason bee Stan Fysh, ABW doesn’t require a managed hive or cause any damage to buildings. Diane Bower, St. Helens Clare Hourahine, Whitehall Amanda Steed-Hawkins, Emsworth William Evans, Lincoln Wendy Phillips, Waresley Martin Clapperton, Salford Robert Dorrian, Faslane Jacqui Cameron, Lincoln Patricia Broughton, Tewkesbury Paul Norman, ABW
Last month's missing word below was: Typhoon
A Y T B O O F V B X T O U S E V M F R U Z D M O N E H P N D M R Q E O P Word Search M R E P E E W S E N I M R E U H L I Agincourt Jet Royal Navy E R A L L Y B O W M A N A E I I L R Armed Forces Johnny Johnson Sea Ceptor Bee Land Ceptor Sir Simon Bollom D O E N I R A M B U S J J R P C O A Careers Merlin Stem F T O F P L Q I O P T I Q A M L B G Commendations Minesweeper Submarine Dambuster Phenom Training O P D A M B U S T E R L R C E E N I Equipment Qioptiq Vehicles R E G X J J O H N N Y J O H N S O N C C F X E Y V S E J B I S D T F M C Find which word or name is missing from this E D L Q T U W D A E Q P F T D N I O wordsearch.
S N O I T A D N E M M O C O E C S U Note - they may appear vertically, P A R O T P E C A E S M Q G X M R R horizontally, diagonally, forward or backward. E L Z G X T R A I N I N G M O G I T
X A E L C U N M E R L I N X O Y S I
35 desider June 2018 Case Study
includes identifying relevant training for them, identifying soft skills improvement for them and generally trying to assist them in shaping how they become more proficient in Business Analysis. We are setting up Communities of Practice and Defence Connect sites so that they can collaborate, lean on one another for guidance and be part of a community of like-minded peers that do similar roles in DE&S.
What do you most enjoy about your job? I like talking to people and learning about different Case aspects of the business. DE&S is big organisation and very diverse. As a Business Analyst, it really helps you understand how you can assist people to do things better, more efficiently and for better value.
What’s you ambition? My ambition is simply to get better at what I do. For me it is about building my skillset by learning new things. I try to learn from the people I work with. Study If I can learn new things from them, and add those things to my own experience and knowledge then, Simon Gibson, Senior Business for me, that is progress. Ultimately, if you can do that, Analyst within the Chief Information the world is your oyster! What’s the greatest achievement (in your role) to Office, gives his insight into some of date? One of the major things I have been involved in is the benefits of working for DE&S working collaboratively with members of the CIO team to write the DE&S IT Strategy. That has been hard work but very engaging and we have recently Name: had some great feedback from senior leadership that Simon Gibson we are doing the right things.
Job title: Why would you recommend DE&S to others as a Senior Business Analyst great place to work? There is so much variation in the work here that it is How long have you worked for DE&S? a very interesting place to be, and given that we are I joined in February 2014, so just over four years. supporting the UK armed forces it can also be really rewarding. There’s also a ton of opportunities to Why did you choose to pursue a career in DE&S? develop and build your skillset. Having been in Financial Services for 12 years, I fancied something different. I’ve always admired the What are the social benefits of working for DE&S? work our UK armed forces do and this seemed like a DE&S is like a community. There are gym facilities good way to support that, through an interesting and for sporty types, sports teams, and all sorts of varied job. There were Business Analyst positions on different social gatherings. You can have a really great offer, so I applied. Three months later I joined the and interesting career and still maintain that work/ Support Chain Information Services team. life balance – which is key for me.
What does your role entail? Since December 2017, I have been working in the Chief Information Office (CIO). I am a part of the Business Engagement Team. We operate the DE&S CIO Front Door and my role, and that of my team, is basically to talk to people about how we can help them implement IT to assist them to deliver for our customers. This all helps business units in DE&S to leverage our IT estate to add value to their processes and deliver for our customers.
What are the opportunities to develop and progress within your function? My other role, within the Information Management & Information Technology (IM&IT) Function, is the Business Analysis Sub-Function Lead. My role
36 desider February 2018 Feature Picture: Jack Eckersley Picture: Picture by: Jack Eckersley Picture WORK FOR DE&S For more info and job opportunities visit: www.des.mod.uk
37 desider June 2018 Recruitment
Here are six very good reasons to work for DE&S
Bonuses & Pension Flexible Recognition Our Alpha pension is Working conservatively valued at 21% Annual bonus and one- of your salary. Most private Balancing work and life, off payments based on companies only offer 6-12% various working patterns performance for going above and beyond
Professional Holiday Facilities Development 25 days rising to 30 days after 5 years We provide a modern, Choose a career path that’s safe and convenient work right for you environment
Please find our 'Little Book of Big Benefits' at www.des.mod.uk
38 desider June 2018 Recruitment
Future Vacancies
Service Delivery Manager DE&S Bristol £19,000 - £29,000pa Level: Senior Admin Specialist Estimated timeline: June 2018 Post type Permanent Job Description: An exciting opportunity to work in the field of Service Delivery Management – complete the delivery of programmes / equipment throughout their life in service with our front line forces. This could be working on in support of any platform from a radio system to a vehicle to an aircraft to a nuclear submarine! Watch out for this campaign launching soon...
Chief Engineering Manager - Maritime DE&S Bristol £56,000 - £75,000pa Level: Senior Professional Estimated timeline: June - July 2018 Post type Permanent
Job Description: As an Engineering Manager, you will use your skills and subject matter knowledge to help us ensure that equipment is safe, available and capable of operating in the most demanding environments – whilst also developing yourself to improve delivery. At this level, your role will also encompass planning and performance reporting across large programs, whilst also managing the development of our business processes and, crucially, our people.
Information Manager DE&S Bristol £30,000 - £41,000 Level: Professional 2 Estimated timeline: July 2018 Post type Permanent
Job Description: The Information Manager post is part of our IMIT function and is key to ensuring that our data is stored, provided with the appropriate level of security and retrievable in the shortest possible timescale. As an integral part of the team, within this role you will advise senior colleagues on strategic issues and liaise with stakeholders on complex and contentious matters in your subject area.
WORK FOR DE&S For more info and current live vacancies please visit: www.des.mod.uk
39 desider June 2018 Feature
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