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Issue 153 May 2021 the magazine for defence equipment desider and support DE&S sparks development of new NATO multi-role helicopter

desider May 2021 Foreword

ForewordBy Sir Simon Bollom, CEO Following the ambitious the Indo-Pacific region and the and the task of sustaining the Carrier associated Defence Command Strike Group with vital stores Paper and Defence and Security and technical support will be a Industrial Strategy, we have an 24/7 task for our teams. important role in turning the COVID 19 has accelerated the strategy into reality. move to new ways of working This investment in Defence and we have shown that we will enable the UK to accelerate can work either remotely, in the development and acquisition person or a hybrid of the two. of next-generation and Keeping the business needs innovative capabilities faster and and our people’s safety in mind, more efficiently, while supporting I encourage you all to support skills and economic growth one another with personalised across the UK. DE&S is central ways of working. It is our people to the development of this. that are at the heart of what we We are pivotal in pioneering a do and we must champion our world-class defence for the UK. decisions as we maintain the We must be agile and adaptable delivery of premium equipment to the rapidly changing and support. character of conflict and global The exceptional work of our engagement. The Integrated people was recently recognised Review signals a pivot towards at the Minister for Defence the technologies and industrial Procurement Acquisition capabilities needed and DE&S awards. I was proud to see that must invest in these capabilities. our performance, innovation, It is an exciting time of great effort and commitment in the change and renewed energy. field of acquisition with DE&S In an era of systemic teams receiving seven of the competition and changing awards. threats, the upcoming Carrier I would also like to highlight We are pivotal in Strike Group’s (CSG21) maiden the recent success of our “ operational deployment will apprentices and graduates pioneering a world-class bolster the UK’s ability to deliver who raised £10,000 for the its defence, foreign policy and Princes Trust charity and were defence for the UK trade objectives alongside key recognized with the Dream allies. CSG21 will comprise Team Award. It is inspiring to the HMS Queen learn of their hard work and Elizabeth, Type 45 , commitment to raising money Type 23 anti- , for young people. Very well ” tanker and support ships, F-35B done. Lightning II-fast jets, and Wildcat Finally, I should mark the and Merlin helicopters. It makes passing of His Royal Highness me extremely proud to know The Prince Philip. The Duke that our talented people, across of Edinburgh epitomised the whole of the organisation, commitment and duty and have played a huge part in remained devoted to the Armed providing this to our Armed Forces throughout his life. Let Forces. But it doesn’t finish us all mirror his dedication as here. The Group will travel we continue to provide the very more than 26,000 nautical miles best equipment and support for throughout its deployment to our Armed Forces.

3 desider May 2021 Contents Contents Twitter: @DefenceES On the cover Facebook: @DefenceES Image shows an RAF Bell 212 helicopter in transit. New NATO helicopter not pictured LinkedIn: Defence Equipment & Support (Sgt 'Matty' Matthews RAF) YouTube: DE&S

www.gov.uk/government/publications/desider-2021

Editor: Louisa Keefe Louisa Keefe - 07971 013054 [email protected]

Contributors: Daniel Evans, Louise Allford, Tom Morris, Lowri Jones, Hannah Swingler and Paul McLennan

Photography and Design: Katherine Williams, Jack Eckersley, Charlie Perham, Andrew Linnett, Geraint Vaughan, Hannah Bone, Michael Tanner and Mark Hawke

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Advertising Manager: Edwin Rodrigues [email protected] 6Senior Leader Comment 8HMS 07482 571535 Director General Land rolled out of the build hall at Chris Bushell shipyard on the Clyde

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This magazine is printed on Novatech Matt FS 115gsm which is Forest Stewardship Council certified material from well-managed forests and elemental chlorine free. Combat10 water system delivered to British Army

4 desider May 2021 Contents

Paying12 tribute to HRH The Duke of Edinburgh

14NATO Helicopter: DE&S16 success DE&S sparks development of new multi-role aircraft at the Minister Defence Procurement Acquisition Awards

20Million makers challenge: Mastiff22 DE&S set ‘Gold Standard’ on operation in Mali

5 desider May 2021 Senior Leader Comment

Chris Bushell, Director General Land, talks to Desider about the future of defence.

As you will all be aware, the opportunities long-awaited Integrated Review of a Global (IR) has now been released. The Britain. IR sets out a vision for Global Change can Britain in a more competitive age. be unsettling, but It outlines a new framework that there will be many defines the UK’s national security new opportunities created and international objectives. as a result of the IR. What is Following the IR, the Defence clear is that we will need to be Command Paper (DCP) and the flexible and reconfigure quickly Defence and Security Industrial to accommodate the evolving Strategy review (DSIS) were also Defence landscape and match the published. The DCP underpins demands of our customers. the IR’s vision for a stronger, more As we move forward together secure, prosperous and resilient into a new financial year, we nation. This paper sets out the can anticipate that in the future detailed outcomes from the IR our Armed Forces will be more and the changes to our equipment persistently engaged around programme. the globe. They will be a more The DCP follows up on productive, relevant and ready the commitment to rapid force, supporting UK interests modernisation, shipbuilding around the world with a more and accelerated research and consistent and focused global development in Defence, driving presence, while being ready to I know that together, with DE&S’ strategic advantage and prosperity reconfigure for war-fighting with “ for the UK. It also reinforces decisive, lethal effect if required. unfailing commitment and steadfast the importance of being more To do this they need our continued determination, we will continue to proactive and adaptable, engaging drive and determination to with partners to protect our people succeed. succeed, evolve and deliver to meet and compete with our adversaries. To assist us the new DE&S DSIS provides the new policy Strategy will soon be published. the needs of our Armed Forces, now foundation for the way in which The key tenets of which will and in the future. we will approach acquisition in the percolate down throughout context of the IR. the business to every level and Engaging with our industrial function. The strategy will realign and international partners on our strategic direction, vision and what the IR means to them will be areas of focus for the next four ” critical and will be pivotal to our years. This will be an exciting and success going forward. challenging time for us all. Following any review of this I know that together, with DE&S’ scale there will be a degree of unfailing commitment and uncertainty. The IR, DSIS and CDP steadfast determination, we will all describe how we must change continue to succeed, evolve and in order to be able to adapt quickly deliver to meet the needs of our to the new and evolving threats Armed Forces, now and in of a more competitive age and the the future.

6 Chosen as the design for the ’s Type 31 , Arrowhead 140 is a proven, capable and adaptable platform for modern, global navies.

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www.arrowhead140.com desider May 2021 News

HMS Glasgow one step closer to completion

The aft block and bow of the “The roll out is a huge milestone first City Class for the Type 26 programme. It’s have now joined together bringing evidence of our solid progress in HMS Glasgow another step closer building the first of a new class and to completion. presents an opportunity for us to The forward section of HMS celebrate the progress being made Glasgow – known as the bow – with our colleagues, our suppliers, contains the bridge, operations our customer and the City of room and accommodation Glasgow.” spaces and was manoeuvred into While HMS Glasgow moves position in just 90 minutes on the out into the open air for the first hardstand at the yard. time, work continues on the Pat Browning, DE&S Type second in class, HMS , with 26 Programme Team Leader, construction to start on HMS said: "The Type 26 is a highly Belfast later in the year. capable anti-submarine warfare The Type 26 frigate is an warship designed for joint and advanced anti-submarine warship multinational operations across that will deliver critical protection the full spectrum of warfare and of the Royal Navy’s Continuous at will serve at the heart of the Royal Sea Deterrent and Carrier Strike Navy's surface fleet for decades to Group. The ships will replace the come.” UK’s Type 23 frigates, with the "The roll out of the forward first set to enter service in the section of HMS Glasgow; the mid-2020s. first of the Type 26 class, hails Each Type 26 will be equipped a landmark moment for this with a range of world-class cutting-edge vessel and a huge step capabilities including the Sea forward for the programme. I pay Ceptor missile defence system, tribute to the hard work and skill a 5-inch medium calibre gun, of all those involved in the design flexible mission bay, Artisan and manufacture of this ship". 997 Medium Range Radar, and The bow was later followed by towed array sonars. The flight the aft block that contains the deck will be able to accommodate versatile mission bay and hangar helicopters up to the size of a which is capable of supporting Chinook, while the mission helicopters, boats, mission loads bay can quickly adapt to house and disaster relief stores, while the and deploy vessels, vehicles and flight deck is capable of landing a containers. Chinook helicopter for transport The Type 26 is the original of embarked forces. variant of BAE Systems’ Global HMS Glasgow is the first in a Combat Ship, which supports a new generation of cutting-edge close partnership between the Type 26 frigates, designed and Royal Navy, Royal Canadian built in the ship’s namesake city. Navy and the Royal Australian Supporting more than 4,000 jobs Navy. and both across the UK, the programme is selected a variant of the Type 26 making a significant contribution design for their anti-submarine to the nation’s economic recovery frigate programmes, supporting by maintaining much-needed greater procurement, operational, skills and capabilities. training and intelligence ties Simon Lister, Managing between the three nations. Director of BAE Systems’ Naval Ships business, said: “The emergence of HMS Glasgow is a very proud moment for everyone involved and is testament to the skills and passion of our workforce. The Type 26 is a highly“ capable anti- submarine warfare warship designed for joint and multinational operations across the full spectrum of warfare

Pat Browning, DE&S Type” 26 Programme Team Leader 8 desider May 2021 News

HMS Glasgow blocks joining together (BAE Systems)

HMS Glasgow blocks joined together (BAE Systems)

9 desider May 2021 News In Brief

New Combat Water Supply System delivered to British Army

DE&S Operational through all the uncertainty and Infrastructure Team have challenges of COVID-19 which Picture shows new Combat Water successfully delivered the first saw manufacturers, both UK Supply System (pic submitted) elements of the new Combat and EU-based, temporarily shut Water Supply System to the down and key suppliers, linked Field Army. The first 14 sets of to medical and key industries, the Modular equipment have working at reduced capacity. been received by DE&S’ delivery The government restrictions partner KBR, to manage into had to be overcome in order service and through the first five to deliver the training package years of service life. and complete acceptance tests Major Gary Allen, Military to ensure progress and delivery Engineering Infrastructure of the project remotely.” Gary, delivery team, said: “This added: “The declaration of Initial equipment represents a step Operating Capability in January change in capability, with each set, 2021 has marked an achievement allowing Field Army to deliver up that has been possible due to to 1,800 litres per hour of potable the drive and commitment of and palatable fresh water into the the Delivery Team but also due field and replaces the aged and to the Strong and collaborative now obsolete Water Purification relationship with our Customer.” Unit. The new system can also be The modular equipment is deployed across the globe from the first of three stages of the the arctic to the desert. project to be delivered by KBR as The new equipment allows part of a £39 million supply and the Army to “stop managing the support contract. The next stages equipment and start managing include the demonstration and the water.” It’s testament to the manufacture of the force level hard work of the combined Army water supply and packaging plants Headquarters and DE&S team which will contribute to achieve that the project was delivered Full Operating Capability in 2025.

HMS Tamar receives iconic wartime paint scheme

An iconic paint scheme has that includes different shades War 1 and adopted by many of confuse their calculations about been applied to Royal Navy of black, white and grey in an the world’s navies at the time. the target’s speed and direction. warship – HMS Tamar – for the irregular and jarring pattern. The different shapes, angles and Tamar entered service last year first time since World War 2. The new Offshore Patrol colours were chosen to confuse and has been given this iconic DE&S worked at pace alongside Vessel’s (OPV) ‘dazzle camouflage’ submariners peering through new look before being deployed A&P Falmouth and BAE Systems was first introduced by the Royal periscopes and make it hard for later in the year. to deliver the unique paint scheme Navy towards the end of World them to identify ships as well as

HMS Tamar with new ‘dazzle’ paint scheme pictured in the water in Falmouth (Crown copyright)

10 desider May 2021 News In Brief

Queen Elizabeth Class carriers most capable yet As HMS Prince of to host, trial and deploy new HMS Prince of Wales to be agile prepares for her departure on mission capabilities on one single, in its operation and adaptable in operational training and sea trials, reliable digital platform. configuration, fully exploiting the another major milestone for the Also installed in her sister force multipliers of autonomy and Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft ship, HMS Queen Elizabeth, the artificial intelligence in its delivery carriers has been achieved, thanks technology and collaboration of operations around the world.” to the efforts of the UK Missions endeavour will continue as Shared Amelia Gould, Naval Ships Systems Enterprise, including the Infrastructure is rolled out to Combat Systems Director, BAE MOD and wider industry. other ships involved in Carrier Systems, added: The recent successful Strike Group, such as the Type 23 “This is a great example of the installation of HMS Prince Frigates and Type 45 Destroyers. skill and dedication demonstrated of Wales’ innovative Shared Reflecting on the recent HMS by each and every member of the Infrastructure (SI) networks Prince of Wales achievement, UK Mission Systems Enterprise. and an integrated facility to trial Kevin Noakes of DE&S Working hand-in-glove to systems (known as a sandbox) Maritime Combat Systems, overcome immense challenges to delivers a secure private cloud commented: “A global, modern deliver state-of-the art capability on warships. With new agile and ready Royal Navy continues to our nation’s defence through approaches to installation, to require warships capable of an unprecedented pandemic integration, assurance and dealing with the full gamut of has made us stronger, more trials, this has enabled the rapid future threats. The latest app agile and better positioned to insertion of scalable computing hosting capability afforded by support the Royal Navy’s future technology and an accompanying the open architecture of MOD’s evolution requirements.” sandbox, allowing the Royal Navy Shared Infrastructure enables

Captain Kevin Noakes RN and Amelia Gould, Naval Ships Combat Systems Director, BAE Systems on board HMS Prince of Wales with some of her ship’s crew (BAE Systems)

Investment sets new standard in Training, Test and Evaluation The addition of three new state- Centre to deliver this capability. Aviation Safety Agency of-the-art helicopters at MOD The investment will provide regulations and is one of only Boscombe Down will deliver pilots, engineers and aircrew three flight test schools in the unrivalled training, testing and access to advanced, systems-rich world – and the first in the UK evaluation capabilities to a British helicopters that are fitted with – to be recognised as an EASA training school for test pilots and an integrated Electro-Optical Approved Training Organisation. flight test engineers of fixed-wing and Infra-Red (EO/IR) camera The investment is part of the and rotary-wing aircraft at MOD turrets and a modern, complex wider £16.5 billion modernisation Boscombe Down. avionics suite, deploying the efforts to provide UK armed Under the Long Term latest, innovative technologies for forces with the latest technologies Partnering Agreement, DE&S helicopter training. for training and deployment. and Qinetiq have worked with All courses at the training RAF Air and Space Warfare school comply with European

11 desiderdesider March May 2021 2021 Feature

Paying tribute to HRH The Duke of Edinburgh

Following the announcement of the death of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh on 9 April 2021, DE&S pays its respects to the late Prince Philip.

HRH The Duke of Edinburgh had a close personal relationship with the Armed Forces throughout his life and will be greatly missed. His Royal Highness was hugely significant in the Armed Forces having served operationally himself for many years and was respected by all who served alongside him and after him. HRH Prince Philip enjoyed an active Naval career between 1939 and 1951 and was a Veteran of the Second World War. In 1942 at the age of 21, he became one of the youngest first lieutenants in the Royal Navy. Since ending his active Naval career, The Duke of Edinburgh kept a close connection to the Armed Forces and in 1953 was promoted to Admiral of the Fleet and appointment Field Marshal and Marshal of the . Until 2017 HRH was also Captain General of the , a role currently held by Her Majesty the Queen. He was also Colonel and Colonel-in- Chief of a number of British and overseas regiments. The Armed Forces are proud to have taken part in the Photo by Andrew Linnett commemorations to mark his passing and DE&S were extremely proud to support the requirement The saluting guns at HMNB were fired to for the 41 gun salute. mark a minute's silence on the day of HRH The Duke of Gun salutes have been fired to Edinburgh's funeral (LPhot Rory Arnold) mark significant national events since as early as at least the 18th century. Defence Munitions Gosport provided the munition cartridges for the portable saluting gun used by the Royal Naval team in Portsmouth and the blank cartridges were fired to produce a loud sound and create smoke. The salutes for the Duke took place in , Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast, as well as and from Royal Navy warships HMS Diamond and HMS Montrose.

Prince Philip visiting Abbey Wood in 2015 by Andrew Linnett

12 desider May 2021 Project ManagerNews Engineer Commercial Finance Graduate FIND YOUR FUTURE Business Manager Communications Project Controller Human Resources Security des.mod.uk A new home for careers at DE&S 13 desider May 2021 News

DE&S sparks development of new NATO multi-role helicopter

Image shows an RAF Bell 212 helicopter in transit. New NATO helicopter not pictured. Photo by Sgt 'Matty' Matthews RAF (Crown copyright)

It started with an “interesting Organisation’s Applied Vehicle could become the next generation science and technology study” Technology (AVT) panel to European medium multi-role initiated by DE&S. determine future rotorcraft rotorcraft. Now NATO is on a path to requirements, eventually leading “This would not only allow This would“ not only develop a new medium, multi-role to a conference on the subject in NATO nations to tailor the design helicopter to serve the UK and its 2015. Not only did Pat chair the to their specific requirements but allow NATO nations allies. conference, he also supported the would also help to re-energise to tailor the design France, Germany, and NGRC Team of Experts that was interest in advanced rotorcraft Italy have signed a Letter of Intent later formed. within European industry.” to their specific (LOI) to collaborate with the UK Numerous meetings were held NGRC will follow a Modular on Next-Generation Rotorcraft with NATO bodies in 2018 and Open System Approach, the requirements but Capabilities (NGRC), dedicated to 2019 where it was recognised that benefits of which include would also help to modernise existing fleets. NGRC provided the opportunity incorporating innovation, enabling Several military helicopters to develop an innovative solution cost savings and improving re-energise interest including Merlin will reach the collaboratively across nations. The interoperability. in advanced end of their life cycles from LOI was signed by the five nations It will incorporate advanced 2035 and beyond, meaning in November, 2020. artificial intelligence technologies rotorcraft within replacements need to be NGRC is now in its pre-concept and have the potential to operate developed. stage. The concept stage, which with or without crew. It will also European industry. NGRC aims to provide the will see considerable involvement be designed to require minimal solution, and experts from all from industry, is expected to be in maintenance and demonstrate five nations will define a robust train by 2022. high levels of availability. Pat Collins, DE&S statement of requirements and The long-term aim is for the DE&S Director Helicopter, Helicopters” Technology multi-phase co-operation plan first aircraft to be delivered to Keith Bethell said: “People before pushing on to make the customers, which may include the within the Helicopters Operating team leader and vision a reality. Royal Navy and Joint Helicopter Centre have played a key and technical advisor to Next- The idea has significant Command, from around 2035, leading role in driving forward Generation Rotorcraft roots at DE&S. In late 2011, with evolved versions from 2045. this future NATO capability, Capabilities Adrian Baguley, then Director Now the technical advisor to which brings together our Helicopters, asked Pat Collins, project NGRC - led by Capability long-standing allies to address who was on secondment from the Air Manoeuvre from Army HQ a key emerging requirement. Defence Science and Technology - Pat said: “Personally, seeing this The NGRC programme will Laboratory (Dstl) in the Science vision become a reality would be a provide exciting opportunities for Gateway role, to investigate what great way to finish my long career technological advancements, and other nations were planning in in rotorcraft. should represent a step change in terms of helicopter development “This activity started out as an our next generation rotary wing for 2030 and beyond. interesting science and technology capabilities.” Pat initiated a study under the study and has developed to the NATO Science & Technology point where we are leading what

14

desider May 2021 Feature DE&S success at Minister Defence Procurement Acquisition Awards The annual Minister Defence Procurement (Min DP) Acquisition Awards recognises teams from across defence for their exceptional performance, innovation, effort and commitment in the field of acquisition. Now in its 18th year, the Awards were created to recognise and innovative and collaborative work, and the DE&S COVID-19 Support commend the achievements of teams that demonstrate outstanding Teams for their exceptional support to wider government throughout the contributions in the acquisition field throughout Defence. pandemic. The awards are the highest accolade teams can achieve within In addition, the DE&S COVID-19 Support Teams were also recognised this field and surpass any other departmental commendation. This in a newly introduced award that acknowledges the unprecedented year, to accommodate for the exceptional circumstances presented challenges of the pandemic. by COVID-19, the awards were held virtually. Director of Defence The ‘Support to the Covid Pandemic’ award was created in recognition Acquisition and Approvals Transformation, Caroline Boughton acted as of Defence’s support to the nation’s COVID-19 response. The DE&S Master of Ceremonies and presenter of awards, alongside Minister for COVID-19 Support Teams were chosen collectively as the winning team Defence Procurement, Jeremy Quin, who formally opened the ceremony for the proactive way in which they assisted the NHS and wider country, and presented the ‘Top Award’. developing and procuring essential specialist equipment, as well as This year saw seven DE&S teams rewarded for their outstanding assisting in providing medical cover and distribution. achievements, two of which were jointly awarded the prestigious Congratulating all those recognised, Jeremy Quin, said: “On behalf of ‘Top Award’ presented to teams that represents the most exceptional the whole of MOD, I would like to offer these teams, and all our award Minister of Defence Procurement (MinDP) Jeremy Quin MP (by Dave Jenkins ) performance in the Defence acquisition community. The winners of winners today, my sincerest gratitude for your outstanding work.” the Top Award were the DE&S Type 31 Programme Team for their

Acquisition Awards 2021: 1. Type 31 Programme 2. P-8A Poseidon, DE&S 3. Mine Hunting 4. Mechanised Infantry Team, DE&S DG Ships and DG Air. Capability Team, DE&S Vehicle (MIV) Delivery and Navy Command. The efforts of the joint DG Ships and Navy and Programme Teams, Learning lessons from other DE&S and RAF P-8A team were recognised for the timely Command. Army Command. acquisition programmes, the team The Future Mine Hunting Harnessing professional acquisition of a £2Bn fixed- defined an innovative procurement Capability team excelled to expertise across MOD, DE&S wing maritime patrol capability strategy and embodied best create a world leading system in and Army teams worked for the RAF. With five of nine practice, forming a deal that a joint UK-French collaboration, innovatively and collaboratively aircraft already delivered and secured the fastest schedule and introducing innovative technology to deliver a world-class BOXER crews trained, the DE&S team best price to deliver the capability and novel ways of working that contract with major international enabled the declaration of Initial the Royal Navy needs. The team will replace ageing and obsolete interoperability and UK prosperity Operating Capability in April attained cross-Government legacy mine hunting vessels. benefits. This significant milestone 2020. In September 2020, a state- investment approvals and This advanced mine hunting culminated from three years of of-the-art Strategic Facility was subsequently delivered – six weeks system using a combination of thorough preparation, lengthy handed over at RAF Lossiemouth. early – a Design & Build contract, autonomous aircraft, boats and stakeholder and industrial Support and maintenance are now modernising UK shipbuilding submersibles will reduce the risk engagements, and strong being carried out following the infrastructure, investing heavily to life of our people and help keep international engagement across negotiation of a 25-year aircraft in the UK supply chain, adding the sea lanes open in the toughest four Nations, to secure the best and training support framework significant social value within the conditions with a safer, quicker possible deal for the UK in the contract that created over 150 UK, including the Rosyth area of and more effective mine hunting global market and strengthen the jobs, mainly in Scotland. Training Scotland, all within a firm/fixed and disposal system. UK industrial base. price contract with incentives to devices and classrooms are now drive the right behaviours from being installed. the contractor. Moreover, the team have enhanced the collaboration between the Royal Navy and its delivery agent; proving the One Team method.

16 desider May 2021 Feature

“I'm extremely“ proud of the seven DE&S teams who have been celebrated by this year's Min DP awards. This continues a long tradition of DE&S being recognised by our peers for our professionalism, our expertise and for the invaluable impact our work has across Defence.

“The awards are testimony to the hard work and determination shown by our people every day, and their continued commitment to delivering for our armed forces, even in the most challenging of times. This is an outstanding achievement and I offer my sincere congratulations to all of the winners.”

Minister of Defence Procurement (MinDP) Jeremy Quin MP (by Dave Jenkins ) Sir Simon Bollom,” DE&S CEO

A framed paper copy of the 5. Shared Infrastructure 6. UK Military Flying 7. Queen Elizabeth Class certificates will be delivered Team, DE&S DG Ships. Training System, DE&S Delivery Team, DE&S to the teams once COVID-19 The delivery of shared DG Air DG Ships and Navy restrictions allow. The Top Infrastructure into Carrier, UK Military Flying Training Award and Innovation Award and Frigate Ships Command. winners will receive an System (UKMFTS) proudly The Carriers were manufactured formed part of the fleet-wide engraved trophy in addition to achieved the programme through a unique partnership vision of Open Architecture their certificates. milestone of Full Course between government and industry, Combat Systems. Shared Capability in April 2020. Between the Aircraft Carrier Alliance. Over infrastructure allows third-party 2015-2020, the programme 51 million man-hours have gone application hosting without the replaced all legacy fleets of into the design and construction need to change core software training aircraft and helicopters, of the aircraft carriers; in excess of or hardware. By delivering an certifying five new aircraft types. 10,000 people, and 700 businesses integrated approach, timeframes UKMFTS introduced into service and suppliers have helped build have been significantly reduced 32 helicopters, 38 fixed wing the vessels, 90% hailing from and new capabilities can be aircraft, simulators, schoolhouses UK. By learning and embedding incorporated in weeks or months, and aircraft hangars at four lessons from the first of class, rather than years. stations, designed 8,000 lessons, QNLZ (delivered in 2017), PWLS with students starting to graduate was delivered to the Royal Navy through this system before moving in December 2019 approximately to frontline platforms. 30% faster and in excess of 20% cheaper than its predecessor. This programme has also catapulted the UK to centre stage in its ability to design and build world class warships, the benefits of which will be felt for generations.

17 desider May 2021 News In Brief

£315M investment secures Army’s Multi Launch Rocket System until 2050

DE&S have secured a mid-life States Department of Defence Missiles and Fire Control at and a radar system. Plans to extension programme to upgrade (DOD), upgrades will be made 's facility in develop a new Fire Control the British Army’s Multi Launch to 44 launchers, and are expected Camden, Arkansas and will keep System collaboratively between Rocket System (MLRS). to include a new armoured the equipment in service until the US, UK, Italy and Finland are The MLRS is a highly mobile cab and upgraded automotive 2050. also underway. automatic system that fires components. The UK is also developing a surface-to-surface rockets in The work will be carried out number of systems for the new less than a minute. Under the under an existing production launchers including Composite £315M deal with the United contract with Lockheed Martin Rubber Tracks, a vehicle camera

Chinook transports sand to Pewit Island (SAC Charlotte Hopkins RAF)

Chinook restores wildlife habitat

Royal Air Force Chinooks Pewit Island, administered by the aggregate was the only viable from RAF Benson have delivered the Hampshire and option and Number 28 Squadron, aggregate onto Pewit Island in Wildlife Trust, was once a thriving from RAF Benson in Oxfordshire, Portmouth Harbour. seabird colony. The aggregate will were delighted to assist. Fifty-six tonnes of aggregate help restore and improve a vitally delivered by the Chinook important breeding and roosting helicopter was delivered to area for a range of species. enhance an important habitat for Due to the remoteness of the coastal birds. site and shallow water, airlifting

18 desider May 2021 News In Brief

Conversion of MAN trucks help modernise the Army’s Logistic Vehicles

A major upgrade to a backbone part of a £72 million contract to new pallet and container loading from ballistic and blast threat and vehicle of the Army’s logistic upgrade a number of the Army’s system. forms the logistic foundation of operations has successfully current fleet of support vehicle With the addition of a hook the British Army. completed a substantial platforms that are vital to keeping lift ‘top hamper’ to allow it to The Army will receive in total modification programme for the the Army and its kit on the move. transport flatracks and related 559 EPLS vehicles in the UK fleet, British Military’s Logistic Corps. The conversion took place in equipment of up to 15 tonnes, with the project being praised by The Enhanced Pallet Load Manchester where MAN Truck & EPLS can also be fitted with senior officers at Army HQ. System (EPLS) conversion is Bus Ltd. installed and integrated a armour packs to protect crew

Re-engineered Enhanced Pallet Load System (EPLS) MAN HX Trucks (Photo submitted)

x

HMS Forth patrols on South Georgia environmental mission Patrol ship HMS Forth motors were found. These could has carried out a ten-day have posed a hazard to the British environmental mission to South Antarctic Survey scientists who Georgia in efforts to protect the work there year-round, or to seals, wildlife and scientists. seabirds and penguins. HMS Forth is the Navy’s The success of the explosive permanent presence in the South ordnance disposal team means Atlantic and recently left her that South Georgia is now safer regular patrol zone around the for tourists, scientists and Falklands to visit South Georgia animals alike. alongside Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians from the Royal Logistic Corps. HMS Forth in South Georgia (Crown copyright) Their mission was to locate and deal with leftover historical munitions from the conflict in 1982. Nearly 40 years later, the disposal team returned to the Grytviken area where rocket

19 desider May 2021 News

DE&S sets gold standard for public sector in Prince’s Trust Million Makers Challenge A desperate scramble saw a determined team of graduates and apprentices from DE&S raise £400 in the final 12 hours of a charity challenge to hit their £10,000 target.

Since 2008, more than 640 year the toughest challenge The team’s mentor, Scott the Prince’s Trust and should be teams have taken on the Prince’s since the entrepreneurial Murray, DE&S Head of HR incredibly proud that they have Trust Million Makers challenge competition began. Operations, said: “I am hugely set the gold standard for public and have collectively raised an With traditional methods proud of what the team has sector teams in this prestigious incredible £15-million to support hampered by the pandemic, the achieved. They have shown challenge.” young people across the UK. team kickstarted fundraising passion; resilience and sheer Additionally, Team DEStincts’s Team DEStinct – a determined in August, with team members determination to reach the efforts were acknowledged at the team of graduates and apprentices pushing themselves physically and £10,000 target. Million Makers national final from DE&S – encouraged their artistically to raise money. “They have all developed key where they received the Dream friends, family and colleagues to Highlights included 10km skills in teamwork; leadership; Team Award for overcoming help them reach the impressive runs, triathlon style challenges, a project management; financial challenges and demonstrating £10,000 milestone as part of 24-hour hobbython and a series controls and public speaking but, collective team resilience. the Prince’s Trust Million of raffles as well as the Lapland perhaps more importantly, they Sinead Ward of the Prince’s Makers Challenge. Challenge – where teams needed have developed lasting friendships Trust, said: “Team DEStinct really Driven by the knowledge that to travel the equivalent distance and networks giving them insights were a dream team in what has the coronavirus pandemic has left from Bristol to Lapland walking, across functions and DE&S. probably been the most difficult many young people in difficult running or cycling which saw “I know they were committed year of Million Makers yet. circumstances, the 15-strong more than 5,000km covered, and to raising money for the “The team demonstrated team had just seven months to £3,000 raised. outstanding work undertaken by unbelievable commitment to the raise enough money to reach their challenge and remained motivated target and were competing against despite all of the hurdles - raising 26 teams from across the UK. an incredible total in the process.” Team DEStinct were praised by organisers of the award- winning challenge who said the coronavirus pandemic made this

Illustration by Hannah Bone

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Ridgback and Mastiff vehicles ready for deployment in Mali The British Army Ridgback and Mastiff have recently been re-engineered for an urgent capability requirement in Mali, Africa, under the MOD Protected Mobility Engineering & Technical Support (PMETS) contract.

Re-engineered Ridgback (Crown copyright)

The off-road mobility upgrade than a year. Reviews have been contract covers 12 vehicles and extraordinarily positive, and associated spares and has seen the added capability has helped new vehicle systems implemented ensure that our soldiers are able to within the Ridgback and Mastiff to conduct their operations in a safer increase mobility, enhance safety and more effective manner.” and introduce new capabilities. David Petheram, Chief The off-road mobility upgrade These enhancements delivered by Operating Officer, NP Aerospace, “ -based NP Aerospace said: “The off-road mobility is a significant development for and include state-of-the art, upgrade is a significant independent suspension systems development for the UK MOD. the UK MOD. It has potential to incorporating Ride Height It has potential to extend the life extend the life of Ridgback and Control, along with upgraded of Ridgback and Mastiff which driveline, steering and braking have saved lives on operation, Mastiff which have saved lives systems, central tyre inflation while delivering performance systems and increased improvements to match other high on operation, while delivering diameter tyres. mobility vehicles. performance improvements Brigadier Anna-Lee Reilly, “The speed at which we and our DE&S Head Vehicle support partners have re-engineered the to match other high mobility team, said: “Our close relationship platforms, with fully functional with NP Aerospace has been prototypes delivered in just over vehicles. fundamental in our ability to 80 working days, has shown that deliver this capability to the Army we have the capabilities to meet in unprecedented timelines. From challenging military requirements requirement to delivery, we have even in a global pandemic with David Petheram, Chief Operating Officer, NP worked hand-in-hand to develop, supply chain restrictions.” Aerospace,” trial and ultimately deploy this capability on operations in less

22 desider May 2021 DE&S People

Recruitment Case Study Mark Langrill Job: What keeps you energised Head of the UK Military Flying about working at DE&S? Training System (UKMFTS) Team. This is my fourth assignment in DE&S or its predecessors, and What does your role involve? for an organisation so committed I’m responsible for leading the to change it is the constants UKMFTS Team to deliver a world- across those tours that stand class flying training system for out. The first is the way that our Armed Forces. We operate DE&S brings together Service alongside our customers and personnel and Civil Servants in industry at six airfields around a way that enables us to get the the country as well as from our very best out of each other, and main site in Bristol. UKMFTS is a in UKMFTS the added dimension partnership, and so I work closely of being integrated with both with my opposite numbers in our customer and our prime Industry and 22 Group (Training contractor amplifies that even Command) to ensure that we act further. The second is the drive in our joint best interests. for continuous improvement. Having been privileged to lead the What do you most enjoy about outstanding Wildcat delivery team your job? through DE&S transformation The sheer scale and variety of I’ve seen how the adoption the UKMFTS portfolio, which and exploitation of better encompasses everything from programme management tools Air Cadet gliders through to fast and techniques have given us a jet, rotary-wing and multi-engine far greater ability to manage our fixed-wing training aircraft makes business and ensure successful it a hugely exciting challenge and outcomes. However, the having only recently joined the constant that really energises me team it’s already clear that no two is the consistent excellence of our What might surprise people days are going to be the same. people; professional, considerate about you? The next phase of UKMFTS’ and completely committed to Although I’ve been in the Royal evolution will see us getting the doing the best that they can Navy for 27 years, I was born in most out of our aircraft while for our Armed Forces and the the RAF Hospital in Ely, and I was exploring greater use of virtual taxpayer. lucky enough to live in Germany, and synthetic technology to and India as my family deliver the best possible training Who or what has shaped who supported my Dad in his RAF and I’m really looking forward to you are? career. Despite that lineage the being part of it. When I asked my wife what she has proved to be a thought has shaped me she said great choice of home for me! What is your greatest cake – which I think is a bit harsh accomplishment to date? – so instead I’ll cite the friends What’s the best advice you’ve Having only been in post for a and colleagues, at all levels, who ever been given? matter of weeks it’s a little early have shown me the way that In the long run people may not to be claiming accomplishments groups of disparate individuals remember what you said or what myself, but I’m delighted that can achieve great things when you did, but they will always the efforts of those who have they’re united by a common remember how you treated them. gone before me have just been purpose, a shared identity and a recognised through a MinDP culture of inclusion. Award for the achievement of UKMFTS Full Course Capability. What do you enjoy doing in That’s a short description of your spare time? a huge achievement by many I’m a keen trail runner and hill people across DE&S, Industry walker, and as I live in Devon my In the long run people may and the Services which has ideal day involves getting up onto “ seen the entirety of the flying on Dartmoor with my dogs Merlin not remember what you training fleet replaced along with & Juno – and with my wife and the introduction of state-of-the- our three children if they promise said or what you did, but art synthetic training systems, not to stray. I’m also a season courseware and training facilities. ticket holder at Exeter Chiefs and they will always remember in less constrained times enjoy how you treated them. watching the teamwork and commitment to each other that has taken them from the second tier of rugby to the top flight. ”

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