April 2012 Issue 47

desthe magazine for defenceider equipment and support

Refuelling the Navy’s global reach

Why DE&S staff are probing a World War Two shipwreck See inside

Dockyard Helmet system Look smart, Packaging up Astute’s transformation proves a hit be smart! welfare powerplay 853_teamSSAFA_RideBritain_AD_DESider.pdf 1 16/03/2012 12:45 853_teamSSAFA_RideBritain_AD_DESider.pdf 1 16/03/201212:45 853_teamSSAFA_RideBritain_AD_DESider.pdf 1 des Steve Moore [email protected] [email protected] Ralph Dunn [email protected] Dick Naughton © Crown Copyright desider [email protected] 7155 7379 (0)207 +44 Fax: 1819. 7657 (0)20 Tel: +44 1NU WC1A London Holborn, High Street, Anthon Linton Advertising Distribution Manager: Editor: Deputy Relations: Public Head, Assistant expressed in in expressed Views omissions. or errors for accepted be can liability no accurate, is produced material all ensure to care inthose the While editor the takes defence industries. including MOD, the outside readers to available made be sponsor. and the can also equipment Copies capability relevant MOD project team before publication. before team project MOD relevant the by cleared be must advertorials for content All MOD. the or DE&S by endorsed necessarily not are advertised, Printing: Printing: from well-managed forests. Stewardship Councilcertified material post consumer waste andForest cent recycled andde-inked pulpfrom Silk 90gsmwhichcontains 50per This magazineisproduced onCocoon FEATURES 22 20 18 is distributed free of charge to DE&S employees employees DE&S to charge of free distributed is

Open procurement isthewayforward DE&S probes secrets ofthedeep Recycling closes thefinalchapter months. has beencompleted bytheTurkish contractors insideten October, 1941. war asshewashitbyfour torpedoes intheearly hours of22 the first Britishshipsunksouthoftheequator duringthe coast leading shiprecycling companies nearIzmirontheAegean by theTurkish company Leyal ShipRecycling, oneofTurkey's Recycling oftheformer Royal Navyaircraft carrier and Technology Peter Luff competition, saysMinister for Defence Equipment,Support the UKtaxpayer. ButBritishcompanies shouldnotfear this in cuttingedge,highqualitykit,gettingthebest return for to seekoutwhattheglobal market hasto offer UKForces The Government's White Paper inFebruary obligesDE&S a GermanU-boatduringWorld War Two. month examining thewreck ofatanker whichwassunkby be hard atwork ontheislandofStHelena from later this Members ofDE&S'Salvage andMarineOperations team will - 9352 30257 or 0117 9130257 0117 or 9130257 30257 -9352 - 9352 30537 or 0117 9130537 0117 or 9130537 30537 -9352 desider, – Ten Alps Publishing, 1 New Oxford Oxford 1New Publishing, –Ten Alps ider - 9352 34342 or 0117 9134342 0117 or 9134342 34342 -9352 :

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Announcing your arrival MOD meansbusiness, withSerco help Now Prince ofWales takes abow Welfare to come neatly packaged Sentinel’s early return boosts capability ‘Awesome’, saysuserofhiskit Rosyth where theships are beingassembled the new aircraft carriers, hasbeenwelcomed to counter-piracy operations trialling anew combat uniform while theshipison her 'awesome capability' saluting her officer commanding with set of trials people inoperational areas loudhailers to communicate more clearly withlocal UK troops willsoonbeequippedwithnew MOD partner to helpimprove business services inthe Serco hasbeenannounced asthecommercial The bow sectionof Chiddingfold HMS Ship pioneers upgrade programme The crew ofType 45destroyer trials transportable passed has line front the on computers equipment and personal communications welfare telephones, house to A cabin fleet to increase theRAF'sISTAR capability brought upto thesamestandard astherest ofthe The first Sentinelsurveillance aircraft hasnow been Astute HMS type of project of type this for class of first the Portsmouth, in upgrade Look smart,besmart

has returned to Clyde after her latest latest her after Clyde to returned has building theshipsinayard inSouthKorea. Shipbuilding andMarineEngineering–whowillbe as adream byofficialsofthe company –Daewoo Sustainability Tanker contract hasbeendescribed Signing ofthe£452millionMilitary AfloatReachand cover image is undergoing a mid-life Prince of Wales, Wales, of Prince

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Picture courtesy of BMT Defence Services Insider april 2012 Bernard Gray Olympic air Chief of Defence Materiel security is

‘The Materiel Strategy Interim put to the test

Structure will rebalance resources UK Armed Forces aircraft and to achieve the manpower reductions personnel took part in the latest training we have to make while enabling us exercise for their vital role providing air security for the Olympic Games. to continue to operate effectively’ Exercise Taurus Mountain 3 put airmen, soldiers and sailors through their paces in the skies over north Yorkshire, detecting and intercepting aircraft that intrude into restricted airspace. The Air Security Plan for the I know you will be well aware that for new Royal Fleet Auxiliary Olympic Games builds on the RAF’s work on The Materiel Strategy is tankers. existing defence of UK airspace. continuing to go forward, as we This project fits in well The exercise integrated additional develop and flesh out the options with the recently published forces to ensure the safety of the for the future management of White Paper ‘National Security Olympics. These included RAF Puma DE&S. This work is focusing on Through Technology’ in which aircraft together with Royal Navy and the options for increasing the role the Government’s preference for Army Lynx helicopters carrying teams of the private sector in DE&S, as fulfilling the UK’s defence and of RAF Regiment snipers to intercept set out by the Secretary of State security requirements through aircraft in restricted airspace, and in his statement to Parliament open competition in the domestic airborne surveillance aircraft including on Defence Transformation on and global market was clearly Royal Navy Sea King and RAF E-3D 1 March. These options will be set out. Sentry aircraft. developed and tested further in The plan to buy an eighth C-17 On the ground, the RAF is providing additional mobile ground radar the coming months, and I will was announced by the Prime systems, while the Army is deploying update you as thinking matures. Minister on 8 February and the air observers and Rapier and Starstreak I’ve spoken at a recent C-17 negotiating team was in missile systems. town hall briefing about our the US within days to agree the Military activity, including the Air work on The Materiel Strategy final terms and conditions. Due Security Plan, supports the overall Interim Structure. This work to their hard work – which built police operation, so the exercise was a will rebalance resources to upon a commendable amount of chance for police and military to learn achieve, in a coherent way, the preliminary work undertaken more about how the other operates. manpower reductions we have over the Christmas period – we Air Commodore Gary Waterfall, the to make as part of the Strategic were able to have the contract Deputy Air Component Commander, Defence and Security Review, signed and agreed with the said: “While there is no specific threat while enabling us to continue to delivery date of the aircraft to the Games, we have to be ready for operate effectively. As this work finalised within a month of the whatever occurs and play our part in continues, you will be kept fully Prime Minister’s announcement. what will be a safe and secure Olympics informed. This is a prime example of for all to enjoy. Alongside these pieces of a pure Military Off The Shelf “Our multi-layered security plan means we have a range of responses work, the constant focus of (MOTS) purchase. In this case available to us, ensuring we can deal DE&S on the support of current we have contracted for a US appropriately with anything from and future operations continues Air Force (USAF) aircraft in the redirecting an aircraft that may have unchanged. I was very pleased very final stages of production, strayed into restricted airspace to to see progress last month on thereby achieving an early preventing an attack.” two very important equipment delivery date. In turn we pay for a programmes – those for four USAF replacement aircraft at the Armed Forces units taking part in the Military Afloat Reach and end of the production line. exercise included: Sustainability (MARS) Tankers The fact that RAF C-17 aircraft o Typhoon jets from RAF Coningsby. and for the eighth C-17 transport maintain strict configuration o Puma helicopters from RAF Benson with aircraft. commonality with their USAF sniper teams from the RAF Regiment at RAF They represent two very counterparts is a key enabler Honington. different types of contracting, in delivering such agile o Royal Navy Lynx helicopters from RNAS Yeovilton. but both may be helpful pointers procurement to meet urgent o Royal Navy Sea King ASaC helicopters towards some of the work operational needs. Procuring from RNAS Culdrose. that DE&S may be doing in the C-17 on a pure MOTS basis also o Grob Tutor aircraft from RAF Leeming. future. One was an international delivers a range of other benefits o Sentry E-3D aircraft from RAF competition and the other was an including huge economies of Waddington, Lincolnshire. o Air Surveillance and Control System off-the-shelf purchase. scale in support by leveraging (ground-based radar), from RAF Boulmer. For the MARS Tankers, off the very large USAF C-17 o 1 Air Control Centre (ground-based the Afloat Support team ran a programme. Finally, our huge radar), from RAF Scampton. demanding competition involving thanks go to the USAF for helping o Joint Ground-Based Air Defence (missile systems), of 16 Regiment Royal Artillery, shipbuilders in Europe and Asia us to procure the eighth C-17 in from North Luffenham. and secured an excellent deal such an aggressive timescale. news 5

Homecoming: HMS Astute on NEWSREEL the final leg of her return to ‘An awesome Clyde on 1 March Last aircraft at St Athan

The last RAF aircraft piece of kit’ to be repaired at St Athan in south Wales has flown out, Commander’s verdict on ending 75 years of maintenance at the Astute trials voyage site. A VC10 left St Athan on Thursday 23 February en route to RAF Brize Norton. St Athan’s history as an aircraft maintenance base dates back to 1938.

Engines milestones

The 300th EJ200 engine to be built at the Rolls-Royce facility in Bristol has been delivered HMS Astute has returned to Report: Alan Dignon are beginning to look beyond to BAE Systems Clyde after her most important those problems and see the and the company has also delivered series of sea trials so far − with promise. the 500th Tranche her commander saluting her 16,400 miles. Commanding “We fired off four 2 standard engine ‘awesome’ capability. Officer, Commander IainTomahawks, aimed at a corner on behalf of the The first-of-class submarine Breckenridge, said: “We are of Eglin Air Force Base to test Eurojet consortium. spent 77 days at sea, 65 looking forward now to a bright for accuracy, and we fired six Both engines will alongside, and was inspected future – this is a submarine of Spearfish torpedoes, including power Typhoons in by 18 stars-worth of American tremendous capability.” the first salvo firing by a British the Royal Saudi Air Force. and British naval authority – On the deployment, where submarine for 15 years. including the First Sea Lord and Astute visited the US Naval “Our sonar is fantastic and I America’s naval equivalent, the Base in King’s Bay, Georgia, have never before experienced Handover Chief of Naval Operations. Commander Breckenridge said: holding a submarine at the Marshall Land She ‘battled’ against USS “We met and surpassed every range we were. This is the future Systems has handed New Mexico, America’s newest expectation. She is simply better – Astute is on its way. She is one over to the MOD the and best Virginia class hunter than any other submarine I have awesome piece of kit.” first truly deployable attack submarine. She deep ever been on. The 7,400-tonne submarine CT scanner, a dived, fired her Tomahawk Land “She is still on trial and will stay at Clyde for Philips Brilliance 64 Attack Missiles, and over the is first-of-class which always maintenance before returning CT. The handover was attended by course of the deployment sailed brings its own problems but we to sea for more trials. Brigadier Jon Brittain, Head of Capability Expeditionary Logistic Support, Sir Michael Marshall, Body armour plate proves just the job Chairman of the Marshall Group, and representatives A British soldier who was ground,” he said. “When of DE&S and the shot in the back during a we got to a safe compound Surgeon General’s firefight in Helmand Province I checked my body armour Department. shrugged off the impact, and found the bullet had gone swapped his damaged armour through my day-sack and into Sentry value plate for a new one and carried my back plate. I was pretty on with the mission. relieved, and felt a bit light- Sentry, the UK’s Trooper Daniel Griffiths, headed.” Airborne Early left, from 1st Battalion, The He later swapped the Warning (AEW) and Control aircraft, Queen’s Dragoon Guards was damaged plate for a new one forms part of the shot by insurgents on the edge before carrying on with the UK’s contribution to of the Nad-e Ali district. mission. Nato and the six UK As British soldiers returned Major Justin Stenhouse, aircraft generate fire Trooper Griffiths, 23, was Queen’s Dragoon Guards, 25 per cent of the hit in the back by a round in added: “This action total Nato AEW the middle of his body armour demonstrates individual Force, Armed Forces Minister Nick Harvey plate. courage but is also testament has told Parliament. “It felt like a sledgehammer to the high-quality equipment blow and knocked me to the issued to those on operations.” 6 news

NEWSREEL Logistic upgrade makes further progress Training deal renewed The single logistic system which gives global proves the processes required for the upgrade to visibility of defence assets wherever they are Release 5 later this year and gives a huge degree of FB Heliservices’ managed has moved on another step. confidence for future upgrades. £193 million An upgrade from Release 3 to Release 4 of the Cdr Phil Waterhouse, MJDI Project Manager, four-year contract Management of the Joint Deployed Inventory (MJDI) said: “This marks a significant step forward for plus two possible opens more functionality to users. MJDI and brings the much-needed improvements one-year extensions It also increases the amount of current and in the way defence stock is managed even nearer to began on 1 April to historical information on stock availablity and its full capacity. continue helicopter usage to all who have access. “The project team and suppliers deserve flying training at It is the first time the system – which reaches praise for the success of this highly complex and RAF Shawbury, full operating capability at the end of this month – challenging project.” RAF Valley and has been upgraded incrementally. MJDI begins the challenge of rolling out to HQ AAC Middle Wallop, It was achieved seamlessly, a major fillip to Army and HQ Navy ships and submarines in the together with suppliers and its DE&S project team alike. It also next few months. support services at Shawbury and Middle Wallop. The contract continues Defence Helicopter Flying Helmet system a hit School support which FBS and FB Heliservices have delivered for the last with Tornado crews 15 years. Training will continue using Eurocopter A new helmet-mounted system Squirrel and Bell to help RAF Tornado pilots Griffin helicopters, upgraded with identify friendly forces is proving new technology. successful in Afghanistan. FB Heliservices is The system, delivered by owned by Bristow BAE Systems as an Urgent Helicopters and Operational Requirement, Cobham Aviation. projects information in front of the pilot’s eye allowing instant Fusion team assessment of points of interest. The technology can save vital Fusion Air Traffic seconds and lives in the theatre Management has of war. added BT, Moog Fernau, Park The request for the fitting of a Air Systems and Tornado Helmet Mounted Cueing Frequentis to its System (HMCS) onto the RAF’s team bidding for Tornado GR4 fleet came last April. Project Marshall to The system is now operational provide air traffic on aircraft in Afghanistan with control for all MOD Above: Gp Capt Mike Smith joins representatives of the DE&S positive feedback from pilots. air stations and air team and Raytheon UK alongside ZJ690 weapon ranges in Wing Commander Kurt Hill, the UK and overseas. Tornado Capability Manager Fusion also includes with DE&S’ Fast Air Support Sentinel’s early return Lockheed Martin, team, said: “The Tornado Finmeccanica HMCS capability has greatly company Selex enhanced the crew's situational boosts fleet capability Systems Integration and Cobham. awareness and resource management, enabling the rapid Sentinel team leader Group Captain Mike Smith has welcomed identification of points of interest back ZJ690 to the fleet ahead of schedule at RAF Waddington after dstl support in the homogeneous Afghan final modifications. environment.” The surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft, the first to be Engineering delivered under the ASTOR (Airborne Stand-off Radar) contract consultancy Frazer- Martin Taylor, BAE Systems’ Combat Air Support Director, in 2008, was employed on early development but lacked the Nash has been modifications. appointed to support added: “We are delighted with the Now brought up to the same standard as the other four in the the Defence Science positive feedback from the RAF fleet, ZJ690 can play a full part and will help boost the fleet’s ability and Technology crews who have used the HMCS to conduct concurrent operations which it did recently in Afghanistan Laboratory’s on Tornado in Afghanistan. and Libya. (Dstl) five-year Sentinel prime contractor Raytheon UK delivered ZJ690 back to ‘RAMD’ (reliability, The speed at which the system was developed and deployed the RAF in January, under the original baseline cost and earlier than availability, the 90 per cent schedule date of the end of last month. demonstrates our ability to maintainability and The aircraft deployed on Operation Herrick less than two weeks durability) research respond effectively to customer after being accepted back into service at RAF Waddington and programme requirements. performed faultlessly on its first mission over Afghanistan. to improve “Over the coming months, DE&S’ Head of Air ISTAR Air Commodore Peter Ewen said: “I am management and we will continue to work with delighted to see ZJ690 returned to the front line ahead of schedule. sustainability of The project team has worked closely with the Raytheon team and the combat and logistic the customer, to provide the capability across the wider early return of this aircraft gives the Front Line Commands a much vehicles. more robust ISTAR capability to support operations in Afghanistan.” Tornado fleet.” Our UK employees are proud to provide kit for Britain’s armed forces. We design, manufacture and maintain ghter jets, armoured vehicles and naval vessels including the Typhoon aircraft, Scimitar light tanks and the Astute Class of submarine. But we’re prouder still of the contribution and sacri ces made by our armed forces every day. Thank you.

REAL PRIDE. REAL ADVANTAGE. 8 news NEWSREEL Front-line welfare now Land lands at Abbey Wood Defence Science comes neatly packaged and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) is hosting a Land and Joint Logistics roadshow in A cabin to house telephones, Neighbourhood 2, communications equipment and Abbey Wood on 16 personal computers for front May. It will showcase line personnel to keep in touch work under the Chief with their families has passed Scientific Adviser’s transportable trials. Land research programme. DE&S The FAST cabin staff will be able to (flexible, agile, scalable and discuss capability transportable) includes satellite with colleagues communications, a generator from Dstl. For more and air conditioning in one information contact portable self-sufficient ISO-style William Suttie, container. Science Gateway Brize prize: on 07748 181147 It will form part of the the FAST or DESLESCG-TL@ WelComeE project, helping cabin can be mod.uk families to keep in contact while safely carried loved ones are deployed. by an RAF Trials were run by RAF Chinook Arresting kit Brize Norton’s Joint Air Delivery Test and Evaluation Unit in Marshall partnerhip with contractor Aerospace has Paradigm and DE&S’ Networks commissioned two team. Rotary Hydraulic The cabin can be deployed Arrestor Gear systems at Camp within 60 minutes. Final Bastion following adjustments will be made after the opening of a user trials in Cyprus. new runway last Flt Lt Andy Wilson of the year. Systems are Networks team said: “I was very fitted at major impressed with the way the RAF bases to slow joint team ensured the FAST down fast jets in an emergency landing. cabin passed fixed and rotary flexible capabilities to theatre; relationship between MOD and Two drum-wound wing trials. Lessons learned this will give Joint Force Support industry in existence throughout belts tension a steel in creating this technology the capabilities they need to the trials phase.” cable that spans the demonstrator should mean a provide high quality welfare WelComE’s communications runway for landing much smoother introduction into services, while gaining the best package for service personnel aircraft to hook onto service of the production model, value for defence.” currently comprises 30 minutes at speeds of around 120 knots. Work at planned for later this year. Martin Weeks, Paradigm’s publicly-funded call time per Camp Bastion was “The cabin is the final piece project manager, added: “To person per week, with a top- undertaken at the in the technology upgrade obtain this approval within up service available, as well as request of DE&S’ Air programme that we have been three months is an excellent round-the-clock internet access Commodities team. working on over the past two achievement and has been and a Wi-Fi-based messaging years to deliver more agile and testament to the close working service called Wi-Lite. 185x65LoricaAd_Layout 1 15/08/2011 10:13 Page 1

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The A400M transport is an aircraft fit for a king. Spain’s Juan Carlos has become the first head of state to fly in the Airbus Military future airlifter which is being assembled in Seville. With Airbus chief military test pilot Ed Strongman and experimental test pilot Ignacio Lombo the King made a flight of around 40 minutes from the Torrejon base near Madrid. During the flight the King, who is a qualified military pilot, took control for 20 minutes at around 10,000 feet and performed a series of manoeuvres including turns and simulated delivery of humanitarian supplies.

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NEWSREEL Look smart, be smart Ellamy’s Italy road costs

Estimated costs – Daring crew of transporting supplies and materials by road to Italy by military trials uniforms vehicles during Operation Ellamy last year was about £1.6 million, Armed A new combat uniform for the Royal Navy is being Forces Minister Nick trialled by the ship’s company of HMS Daring while Harvey has revealed. on counter-piracy operations in the Arabian Gulf. There were around Sailors on board the Type 45 destroyer are now 400 moves by wearing a specially-designed dark blue kit in place 2 Mechanical of the Royal Navy’s traditional light blue outfit Transport Squadron known as the Number 4 dress. This is the first new to Trapani and Gioia Dell Colle uniform to be worn by sailors on operations for 20 and additional road years. moves by contracted The new kit, pictured right, is designed to commercial be more versatile and adaptable to the different carriers. Typical weather the Navy encounters around the globe. cost per vehicle Each sailor on board HMS Daring has been was around £2,000 issued multiple layers including a t-shirt, shirt, for fuel, £650 for road tolls, £300 for thermal fleece and windproof jacket, all in the new accommodation darker colour. The trousers have slanted pockets and other personal on the legs so it is easier to use them when sitting “The boots costs for drivers down. are very comfortable as and about £500 The whole uniform has been designed to make well, especially for people who are stood for Eurotunnel it easier to get dressed quickly – something that is on their feet all day and with the zip it makes it costs. At the height essential for those on board who may have to be easier to just pull them on and off.” of operations around 100 hire woken in the event of an incident. The boots have The Royal Navy emblem worn on the upper vehicles were used zips as well as laces and the collar can be turned arm with the ship's badge emblazoned on the other to support 900 up and fastened instantly with Velcro rather than also makes the wearers instantly recognisable personnel. fiddling with buttons. as RN personnel. Rank badges are worn at the “So far the reaction on board the ship has been front rather than on the shoulders to ensure an very positive,” said Lieutenant Commander Ben individual is instantly identifiable. On guard Hughes, HMS Daring’s Logistics Officer. “People Similar trials of the new uniform are due to take were initially apprehensive but it is a very practical place on the Type 23 Frigate HMS Westminster The MOD’s Police uniform that looks much more modern. and the Trafalgar class submarine HMS Talent. and Guarding Agency ceased to have executive agency status on 1 Defender DEFENDER, the fifth Type 45 heads out April, in the latest destroyer, is on her second and defence reform. The T45 No 5 is of Glasgow final stage of sea trials off Scotland separate elements ahead of handover to the Royal of the MOD Police back on trial Navy later this year. and the Guarding Trials will include final testing service will continue within the MOD, of the ship’s power and propulsion, collocated and combat systems, navigational and under command communications equipment. of the MOD Chief The ship’s Senior Naval Officer, Constable. This Commander Nicholas Boyd, said: is expected to “The second set of sea trials marks save £140,000 on another milestone in the life of administration, Defence Under- the ship and her company as we secretary Andrew prepare to join the fleet. Rowbathan “We are looking forward announced in to operating her sophisticated Parliament at the equipment and systems during end of February. Scientists keep close eye on Dragon trials and beyond, putting our experience and training into practice.” Jon on move Dragon – the fourth Type 45 destroyer – fired her decoy flares for the Paul Rafferty, Type 45 first time during her latest trials. Programme Director at BAE Jon Day, the 2nd The Portsmouth-based warship used the ranges off Portland Bill, Permanent Under- Systems, said: “The trials with a team from the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) secretary at the ashore monitoring the destroyer’s radar cross-section and infra-red demonstrate progress and MOD is the new characteristics as she fired off the flares. provide an opportunity to prove chairman of the The distinctive angular nature of the Daring class is designed to her outstanding capability in Joint Intelligence minimise the ‘blip’ the ships produce on an enemy radar screen and preparation for Acceptance off Committee. suggest that, instead of an 7,500-tonne warship bristling with weaponry, Contract in July.” the target is an innocuous smaller vessel. 12 news

MOD to urge investment Business must make from overseas

Overseas-based suppliers are being most of French tie-up encouraged to invest in the UK’s defence and security sector through a new The UK’s smaller companies Industrial Engagement have a vital role in developing Minister’s Policy. the defence sector. The MOD will As the lifeblood of the messages encourage participating companies to: defence industry they are to industry • see the UK as a uniquely placed to influence prime location to engage in front-line technology. research and development, Minister for Defence investment and technology Equipment, Support and transfer; Technology Peter Luff, pictured • extend opportunities right, addressed delegates at the for UK companies to become part of their supply NDI Conference on the role small chain; and and medium-sized enterprises • engage specifically (SMEs) play in developing new with SMEs in these technologies. activities and, where The two-day conference possible, provide advice in Bristol last month, entitled to enhance SMEs’ ‘Building for Growth’, focused opportunities to succeed in the market place. on business opportunities in defence, security, aerospace and These activities will space. also underpin promotion Mr Luff said: “SMEs are the of UK defence and security lifeblood of any industry, but exports. this is especially true in defence. The new policy will They have the agility to exploit be implemented by the UKTI Defence and Security new technologies, the niche Organisation – Industrial capabilities to develop it and of Engagement Unit who will course are cost effective. draw up agreements with “They have a vital role to play overseas-based suppliers in ensuring that our forces have for engaging with UK the best support, at the right UK industry industry. has nothing Annual reports will price for the British tax payer.” provide Peter Luff, Minister He added: “We must spend on to fear from for Defence Equipment, science and technology. We’ve competition – Support and Technology, set the base line at 1.2 per cent of pages 22 with a consolidated total defence budget, currently overview of how suppliers equivalent to £400 million per and 23 interact with the UK’s annum. But I’m hoping it will be defence and security sector and how they support and possible to increase this as part enhance the UK’s defence of the equipment programme.” and security capabilities. Mr Luff also commented European spend on defence and “The treaty will open up Mr Luff said: “We have on the UK-France Defence and by working together we are able greater opportunities for had long and successful Security Co-operation Treaty, to maximise our purchasing SMEs. It’s important that UK relationships with our and the business opportunities power, operational capabilities businesses make the most of it. overseas based suppliers it opens up for UK companies. and sustain a strong industrial The relationship is here to stay and I believe they will continue to see the benefits “France and the UK presence that will underpin and I want all of you to be a part of our new Industrial represent half the total both our and France’s security. of it.” Engagement Policy and will want to be seen to continue their significant and valued contributions Pen put to paper on RAF’s eighth C-17 to our vibrant defence and security sector. The RAF’s eighth C-17 strategic transport aircraft were initially acquired under a lease agreement with “Our new approach – detailed in desider last month – is now undergoing Boeing before being purchased outright in 2008, with will highlight the UK’s final production testing. orders subsequently placed for new-build fifth, sixth unique environment for The contract was signed with Boeing on 9 March. and seventh C-17 aircraft. investment by overseas- The aircraft is expected to enter service with the The UK fleet has logged more than 60,000 flight based suppliers and RAF this July. hours since service entry, predominantly supporting ensure that their future Announced by Prime Minister David Cameron UK operations but also providing humanitarian engagement is fully on 8 February, the purchase represents a significant and disaster-relief missions and contingent airlift recognised and targeted uplift in the UK C-17 fleet. capability for the nation’s Joint Rapid Reaction more effectively in The aircraft plays a vital role in sustaining the Force. support of the priorities UK’s ‘Air Bridge’ into Afghanistan. Under the MOD’s Future Force 2020 an eight- this Government has Seven C-17s are already flown by the service’s strong C-17 fleet is complementary to A400M outlined in its recent 99 Squadron from RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire. deliveries to the RAF. ‘National Security Through Last May the RAF marked completion of its first The UK operates the second-largest fleet of Technology’ White Paper”. decade of operations with the C-17. The first four C-17s, behind the US Air Force. news 13

Victory sails off into new hands

The Royal Navy’s oldest commissioned the First Sea Lord. Second Sea Lord, warship – currently at the start of a Vice-Admiral Charles Montgomery, said: ten-year refurbishment under a DE&S “I am absolutely delighted with this contract – is to be transferred from the initiative. It will significantly enhance the MOD to a charitable trust. way in which Victory can be preserved HMS Victory, at the Historic Dockyard for the benefit of the nation and future in Portsmouth, will now be maintained generations, while retaining her links by the HMS Victory Preservation Trust, with the Royal Navy. part of the National Museum of the Royal “She will be in the hands of an Navy. At the same time a £25million organisation which will look after her capital grant has been announced to unique status and has all the professional support the new Trust by the Gosling experience that her continued and Foundation. The MOD has matched this enhanced preservation requires.” with another £25 million. The new charity will also assume HMS Victory will continue as a responsibility for the refurbishment commissioned warship under her work of BAE Systems which was last commanding officer and ship’s company year awarded the £16 million contract and will remain as the flagship of the to restore the ship – the most in-depth Second Sea Lord until, as previously transformation since her return from the planned, she is made the flagship of Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. New dawn: for HMS Victory

Northwood Ship pioneers upgrade hosts new programme command The Joint Forces Command was due to be launched on 2 April in a ceremony at the Northwood headquarters. It has been established to ensure that a range of vital joint enabling capabilities, functions and organisations – such as medical services, training and education, intelligence, and cyber – are organised and managed effectively New engines mark and efficiently. It will work a major milestone alongside the single services to deliver joint enabling capabilities to Ready and waiting: Chiddingfold is all set to receive her new engines support success on operations. Over the next Two new engines have been the lives of the eight ships, engined Hunt class minehunters year, the Command fitted, marking a milestone maintaining their position as and we are looking forward to will assume the full in the year-long upgrade of a some of the most capable mine putting this new system through range of its planned Portsmouth minehunter. countermeasures vessels in the its paces later this year to find responsibilities HMS Chiddingfold has seen world. out exactly how the ship will for current her Rolls-Royce Deltics – which Work on Chiddingfold started perform.” operations, future have been used in many of the in January with the removal of New gearboxes and propellers contingencies, and for the longer term. Royal Navy’s smaller warships two sections of deck to allow and an upgrade to the hydraulic It will reach Full for years – replaced by Caterpillar access to the bowels of the ship. bow thruster system are also part Operating Capability C32 Acert engines. With the engine room fully of the upgrade. by next April. The work is part of a major prepared, the new engines were BAE Systems project manager For more mid-life upgrade to the Navy’s carefully craned into the ship and Mark Draper said: “Chiddingfold information visit eight Hunt class minehunters onto their new mounts. is the first of class for this project the JFC intranet being carried out by BAE Systems Lieutenant Peter Davis, the and we are learning a lot. The site, http:// defenceintranet. in Portsmouth. ship’s executive officer, said: engine installation is a real diiweb.r.mil.uk/ The programme will extend “Chiddingfold is the first of the re- milestone.” defenceintranet/jfc 14 news Now Prince of Wales takes to the waves

Aircraft Carrier Alliance workers at Rosyth have welcomed the 400-tonne lower bow section of the second Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carrier, which is to be assembled at Babcock’s dockyard. The bulbous bow, which is made up of two modules and will form part of Prince of Wales, sailed under the Forth bridges, above, on 15 March on a sea-going barge, to complete its voyage from Babcock’s sister facility in Appledore, north Devon, left. The ship is being constructed at yards around the UK and each block will be transported to Rosyth for final assembly in the Number One Dock. The bow is pictured, right, next to that of the MSV Desider advert march 2012_Layoutfirst 1 15/03/2012 carrier, Queen 16:58 Elizabeth. Page 1

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Marshall Specialist Vehicles Ltd

The Airport, Newmarket Road, Cambridge CB5 8RX Tel: +44 (0) 1223 373737 Fax: +44 (0) 1223 373147 [email protected] A Marshall Land Systems Company news 15

NEWSREEL Corsham kick-starts hunt Systems up in numbers to find a ‘Big 5’ partner UK machine gun maker Manroy will supply UK Forces What may prove to be with blank firing the biggest information and systems (BFS), tow communications technology bars and tripods (ICT) services acquisition change in a £1.1 million programme in Europe – based contract. Manroy at DE&S’ Information Systems will provide 295 BFS and Services HQ in Corsham – for training, taking the total number has advertised for a Strategic of BFS sold to the Partner. MOD by Manroy to Defence Core Network 363. Manroy owns Services (DCNS) is the the intellectual programme to deliver better property rights for integrated end-to-end ICT the 0.5” calibre services with greater agility at Heavy Machine Gun Blank Firing less cost. System, including It is a step-change for the ISS the ammunition, Operating Centre that leads on and last May signed ICT services for the MOD. a £4.1m, five-year The initiative will see continuation to an replacement services for existing contract to supply the MOD with ISS’ ‘Big 5’ supply contracts blank ammunition. (Defence Electronic Merlin tests out landing area Commerce Services, Defence Fixed Telecommunications A Merlin helicopter from RAF Benson is pictured, above, paying a Mat Strat Service, Defence Information flying visit to Corsham. The visit on 2 March was to conduct a reconnaissance of the new LFE Infrastructure, Defence High landing area on the sports pitches and to discover the best way to Frequency Communications approach the area by air. Major-General Services, and Skynet Satellite As the ground is still settling the helicopter was unable to land, but Chris Deverell, Communications), and also instead hovered in place to check for unexpected turbulence. The new Director Materiel changes the way the organisation landing area is expected to be available from October. Strategy at DE&S, goes to market for those services, will speak at a Learning From together with potential changes Experience seminar to ISS’ structure. partner is to be in place by the maintain and improve day-to- on phase one work Early engagement of a end of June. day functionality, while driving of the Materiel Strategic Partner is one of a Programme Director down costs. Our answer to Strategy on Tuesday range of measures to better Commodore Jamie Hay this challenge is the DCNS 17 April from 2-3pm manage the risk of transition to said: “Telephones, personal programme.” in the lecture new contracts for ICT services. computers, office automation and DCNS is re-defining theatre at Abbey Wood. Bookings The DCNS Strategic Partner access to necessary applications acquisition of ICT services through the Abbey will work within ISS and provide are taken for granted by today’s against a challenging economy, Wood events support and advice. workforce and, like many homes a dynamic marketplace and booking system. They will build on the and businesses, the MOD buys changing needs of users. strategies, plans and approach in these services from specialist It comprises four elements: the during the DCNS programme providers and has contracts with Services Portfolio, Target Supply Air harmony design, developing the organisations like BT and the Chain Model, Target Operating implementation while de-risking Atlas consortium. Model and Delivery Programme, Engineering outcomes and benefits. “Our ‘Big 5’ service supply covered in the DCNS factpack consultancy Frazer- More than 150 representatives contracts come to an end and the programme director’s Nash, working with Marshall from 83 companies visited from 2013, so ISS must secure blogs available on the Defence Aerospace, has been Corsham on 12-13 March. A these services, and more, to Intranet. awarded a contract by the European Defence Agency MOD means business – with Serco help (EDA) to produce a harmonised set of European military Serco will be the commercial Serco will work with DBS, which Savings are expected to be around airworthiness partner to help improve business will continue to be part of the MOD, £71 million during the contract. certification criteria. services in the MOD. to turn the organisation into an Mr Hammond said: “The new A harmonised set Defence Secretary Philip efficient shared services centre Serco management team have of standards and Hammond announced the Defence which builds on private sector best first-hand experience of making requirements aims Business Services Management practice. similar changes in the wider public to reduce duplication Contract as part of a long-term The value of the four-year and private sector, improving across countries, programme to transform the way contract is around £36 million with performance through innovation. cut initial aircraft corporate services are provided. an option to extend for another year. “We are committed to procurement costs Defence Business Services It is based on a zero working with Serco to make this and, potentially, (DBS) stood up last July and management fee with all Serco’s transformation a success and to through-life costs. provides human resources, finance, earnings performance-related. deliver savings which will allow information and vetting to all areas Serco will be incentivised to drive more resources to be made of the MOD. down costs and deliver efficiencies. available to the front line.” 16 news Calling all villagers!

New loudhailers will help UK troops get their message across – loud and clear

UK troops will soon be equipped with new loudhailers to communicate more clearly with local people in operational areas. STG Media Systems of north London has been awarded a £48,000 contract by the Intelligence and Information Solutions team – in DE&S’ ISTAR (intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance) operating centre – to supply its latest ultra-lightweight Mega-Voice public address system, pictured left. It is battery operated, robust and has a range of up to 1,500 metres. It will allow patrolling troops, particularly on operations in Afghanistan, to announce their arrival to local villagers, provide reassurance and Above: a UK patrol invite people to meetings. passes a market in The system is lighter, smaller, louder and more portable than an Afghan village. predecessors and can be operated from a 45-litre Bergen. STG managing director Suzanne Coop said: “We are pleased to A new loudhailer work with our user group the way we do. Clients suggest improvements will help troops get to our current systems and the very next order incorporates the new messages across to features. the local population in “The latest Mega-Voice unit will improve personal safety by operational areas increasing the effective communication distance, using wireless technology with long-range, highly intelligible speech.”

Two Vanguard class ballistic missile submarines have been in Devonport at the same Vigilant emerges fighting fit time as HMS Vengeance prepares for her Long Overhaul Period (Refuel) (LOP(R)). At the same time the LOP(R) on HMS Vigilant – the third Vanguard class refit and refuel to be HMS Vigilant emerges after three undertaken by Babcock – is approaching the end of and a half years hard work by staff at nearly three and a half years’ work at Devonport. Babcock, Rolls-Royce and DE&S The more than £300 million LOP(R) has represented five years of activity including the planning phase. Around 200 design alterations and class modifications have been incorporated including an upgrade to the latest reactor core as used in Astute class submarines fuelling the submarine for life. The project has involved more than 2.3 million staff hours, over 2,000 people, and more than 80 subcontracting companies. Around 26,000 items have been removed from the submarine and overhauled, 32,000 litres of paint have been applied and 400 systems have been tested by the Babcock commissioning teams. MOD contract manager Nick Febbrarro said: “The success that this LOP(R) has enjoyed is due to the close collaboration of many agencies and contractors, but particularly the joint project ethos that is dominant between MOD, Babcock, Rolls- Royce and the ship’s company.” news 17

o At more than 200 metres long, Ships will boost British design skills the four 37,000-tonne tankers will be approximately the same length as 14 double decker buses and can pump enough fuel to fill two Olympic sized swimming pools in an hour.

Report: Tim Foreman Partners all ready Signing of a £452 million contract was described as a “dream” when a delegation of senior personnel from one of the world’s to jump on board largest shipbuilders visited Abbey Wood. The Military Afloat Reach and Sustainability (MARS) Tanker contract award event marked the new deal UK’s new tankers between South Korean company Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (DSME) and the MOD. At the event senior staff from DSME, Company visits Abbey Wood and hails 'dream' who travelled from South Korea to the Filton site, signed the MARS Tanker contract as a moment of history contract with DE&S. They were joined by members of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, who will operate will deliver the next generation of tankers and has taken a very long time.” the ships, and UK ship designer BMT after winning this competition. We He added: “This support vessels Defence Services, who will work with believe these will be excellent ships of contract is so significant that it will be DSME on the programme. which the Royal Navy and the RFA will be recorded in the history of our company as Vice Admiral Andrew Mathews, Chief hugely proud.” opening a new chapter.” of Materiel (Fleet), signed the contract The MARS Tanker programme is The tankers will maintain the Royal with Senior Executive Vice President at managed by the Afloat Support team in Navy’s ability to refuel at sea and provide DSME, Mr Jae Ho Ko. DE&S, headed by Commodore David fuel to individual warships and seamlessly During the signing Mr Ko handed Preston. integrate into Task Groups. Vice-Admiral Mathews a crystal paper Mr Ko said: “We know that these ships They will support deployed amphibious weight of the MARS Tanker design and are a high priority for the Royal Fleet land and air forces close to the shore, joked: “This is an on-time delivery.” Auxiliary. Likewise, it is true that winning will be able to operate helicopters, and Vice-Admiral Mathews, said: “This this contract has been like a dream for our are planned to enter service from 2016, contract marks the end of a long journey company, DSME. replacing existing Royal Fleet Auxiliary and I am absolutely delighted that DSME “The competition has been challenging single-hulled tankers.

Company to prove engineering expertise

The UK’s new fleet of refuelling tankers for the Royal Navy will feature naval design expertise from Bath-based BMT Defence Services. Involvement of BMT will retain UK capability, knowledge and skills in naval ship design and engineering with its Aegir vessel design. BMT’s Aegir design uses a hull that meets the latest marine pollution regulations and adopts design principles common with the latest Royal Navy ships. Muir Macdonald, Managing Director of BMT Defence Services, said: “We and our partners Daewoo are delighted with this result against such strong international competition and are looking forward to reinforcing our partnership with this joint success. “We shall very much enjoy working closely with the MOD to deliver these ships that are such an important addition to the RFA fleet. “It will be a privilege to work with a shipbuilder with the reputation and capabilities of DSME; it gives BMT a massive boost in further proving our design and engineering expertise.” He added: “The global market for auxiliary vessels will remain strong over the next couple of decades and the selection of our Aegir design puts Britain in pole position for championing our design and Mr Jae Ho Ko, senior vice-president of DSME, signs the contract with know-how around the world.” DE&S' Chief of Materiel (Fleet) Vice Admiral Andrew Mathews 18 disposals Recycling closes Invincible’s final chapter

ecycling of the Falklands campaign Disposal Reserve Ship Organisation successfully recycled for the DSA. veteran HMS Invincible has (DRSO) played a crucial part in Leyal provided a monthly breakdown Rbeen completed by the Turkish supporting DE&S’ Disposal Services of metals and waste removed, with contractors inside ten months. Authority (DSA) by preparing the ship photographs showing key stages of The Royal Navy aircraft carrier and producing an inventory of hazardous the dismantling. DSA staff made visits enjoyed a career spanning nearly 30 materials and a ‘Green Passport’, which to the yard to make sure work was in years ending with her leaving service highlighted the hazardous materials accordance with the UK Government’s in 2005, but departed from Portsmouth on board along with an asbestos Ship Recycling Strategy. An audit of in March 2011 for recycling by the survey. DRSO also supported towing original weighbridge tickets, licenses and Turkish contractor Leyal Ship Recycling, preparations. consignment notes were also checked one of Turkey’s leading ship recycling DSA’s primary aim is to sell surplus companies, in Aliaga, near Izmir on ships to overseas governments for further Turkey’s Aegean coast. This heavily military use. Where this is not possible industrialised area has been dedicated – for instance when ships are no longer for ship dismantling by the Turkish seaworthy and only suitable for recycling Government while the speed of the work – then safe and environmentally sound showed the value of an experienced recycling is the option in compliance with workforce familiar in the complex art of its legal responsibilities as a producer of ship recycling. waste. Invincible is the 14th ship to be disposals 19 Recycling closes Invincible’s final chapter

against the monthly reports sent to the A final report on the ship’s recycling DSA. More than 11,500 tonnes of waste will go to foreign governments who were recovered, less than two per cent look to DE&S as providing the lead on going to landfill. recycling warships. Leyal was also subjected to audits and Invincible is Leyal’s eighth and inspections from the UK Environmental highest profile ship recycled so far Agency to make sure it was adhering following previous recycling of Type 42 to all current health, safety and destroyers Cardiff, Newcastle, Glasgow, environmental legislation and the terms Exeter, Southampton and Nottingham, of its waste management permit. and the former fleet auxiliary ship Oakleaf. The company received huge media interest in Invincible as well as enquiries from former sailors who received, with the compliments of the company and in recognition of the strong attachment that the ship had with those who served on her, a memento in the shape of a small piece of the hull suitably engraved. Above: happy times – HMS Invincible returns to Portsmouth safe and sound from the Falklands in 1982

Main picture: Invincible departs from Portsmouth last year for her journey to Turkey 20 salvage DE&S probes secrets of Team heads south to survey the deep tanker sunk by German U-boat

fortnight on an island close to the RFA Darkdale became the first British hazard to an island where tourism is on equator in the spring might sound ship sunk south of the equator during the the increase. Athe ideal place to get away from war when U68 slammed four torpedoes “St Helena was an important stopping it all. into her side as she lay at anchor off off point for ships passing to south But members of DE&S’ Salvage and Jamestown in the early hours of 22 east Asia, particularly with war taking Marine Operations (SANMO) team will October 1941. place in the Mediterranean,” said Matt be hard at work on the South Atlantic Now oil gradually seeps from the hull Skelhorn, the team’s wreck research island of St Helena – one of the earth’s into the 40-metre deep waters of James analyst. more remote spots – later this month, Bay. The DE&S survey will decide what, “Darkdale had been in St Helena for examining the wreck of a tanker sunk if any, action is needed to prevent the some weeks and refueled some pretty during World War Two. Darkdale becoming an environmental large warships. There was no anticipation of a submarine attack on her. “She blew up, broke in half and sank. The bow section turned turtle, the stern section is on its side. We don’t HMS Royal Oak, the wreck know how much oil is on board and on which SANMO has been working in Scapa Flow, until we start doing an in-depth survey Orkney Islands of her we cannot be certain. There was a big explosion and she was set on fire before she sank so a lot of that oil could have gone anyway. We know she’s been leaking small quantities periodically ever since and there are munitions on board too. The wreck is gradually degrading.” The team has been tasked as part of a legacy wrecks remediation programme to go down and survey her. Information is critical and desk-based assessment beforehand pulls together as much detail about the ship as possible. The team has scoured the archives, looking at photographs, plans, diagrams and logs to find out as much about the Darkdale as possible. Official British records have provided a partial picture but much information came from Kapitan Karl Friedrich Merten, captain of U68, whose scrupulously compiled logs provided details of the types of torpedo used on the night of the attack and their exact targets. The log of a Norwegian ship which refuelled the Darkdale some days before was also useful. Local divers’ knowledge has added to the picture. A nine-strong team leaves on 26 April with the survey set to last a fortnight. SANMO’s team includes personnel from its Marine Salvage Units at Devonport and Greenock who will operate their remotely controlled underwater vehicles and multi-beam sonars. They will be accompanied by a scientist and three contractors who will provide the environmental expertise. With all the kit in a huge container the team will fly from RAF Brize Norton to Ascension Island – St Helena is still one of the few places in the world you can’t fly to, yet – before a Royal Mail ship will take them on the final leg to the island. salvage 21

“We will survey the wreck and its potential problems there are. Does the For SANMO it is a high profile surrounding area,” said Mr Skelhorn. amount of oil justify further work? Do we opportunity to show its capabilities. “We will find out how many holes she has, put monitoring measures in? We simply Much of the team’s previous surveying what damage the torpedoes did, work out don’t know yet. has been on the Royal Navy battleship which tanks the oil is leaking from, to get “And we make this information Royal Oak, sunk by a U-boat in Scapa as detailed an overview as possible. In the available to as wide an audience as Flow early in World War Two. She is one meantime the environmental team will possible because it is historically of 1,500 Royal Navy or MOD-operated be continuing work to consider impact of significant. The kind of wrecks we deal merchant vessels which lie on the ocean the oil leaks on local marine life and the with won’t necessarily be the most well- floor around the world. Most pose no potential for further pollution. known ones – HMS Hood, wrecks from threat to the environment but SANMO “The guys who will be leading the Jutland, you can get a book off the shelf has begun research on around a dozen in survey are very experienced. I don’t in the library about those – but few will preparation for possible future surveys. think Darkdale will pose a huge technical have heard of Darkdale unless they have “We have been working on the challenge in surveying the wreck, it’s just a personal interest in it. Because of the Royal Oak since the 1990s so Darkdale a matter of physically getting out there. work we will be doing it will allow that is a natural progression for us,” said We’re doubling up with pretty much all story to be more widely known.” Mr Skelhorn. “It is important as we will the kit we are taking with us, because Team members are conscious of be testing the methodology of what we if anything breaks down it’s not as if sensitivities too. Forty-one of Darkdale’s do but St Helena isn’t the first place we you can pop out to replace it. We will be crew went down with the ship – only two would have chosen to test because of the completely self-sufficient. survived, along with a handful who were amount of logistics involved. If it comes “Then we draw all the evidence on shore at the time. The team plans a off though it will set the standard for the together to provide a report on what wreath-laying ceremony. future.” the situation of the wreck is and what

Previous name: Empire Oil Class: Dale class freighting tanker Laid down: October 1939 Builder: Blythswood Shipbuilding Co Ltd, Glasgow Launched: 23 July 1940 Into Service: November 1940 Out of service: 22 October 1941 Length: 141 metres Beam: 18.7 metres Tonnage: 8,145 Propulsion: Diesel Armament: 1x4.7in gun, 1x12 pdr gun, 2xPig Troughs; 2x Hotchkiss machine guns; 2xMarlin machine guns; 2x Lewis machine guns; parachute and cable rockets. There were planned to be 19 ships of the Dale class.

4 August 1941: arrived St Helena to act as Fleet Oiler, carrying 3,000 tons of fuel oil, 850 tons of aviation spirit, 500 tons of diesel oil and some lubricating oil. 17 September 1941: refuelled aircraft carrier HMS Eagle and cruiser HMS Dorsetshire. 22 October 1941: torpedoed by U68 which reported that Darkdale exploded, turned over and sank within five minutes. 41 were killed. The Master, Chief Engineer and Purser were dining with the Garrison Commander in the military barracks above Jamestown, two Ratings lay in Jamestown Hospital and a further two were on a run ashore, trying to get back to their ship when the torpedoes struck at around 00.15. The crew who were lost are remembered with This picture: a Dale class tanker, one of a class of 19 planned. pride on the Tower Hill Memorial, London and on the Cenotaph at Jamestown, St. Helena. Above: three-dimensional views of RFA Darkdale, from plans of the ship supplied to Photogrammetry and Computer Modelling 20 April 2009: during a visit to St Helena by RFA (PCM) at the National Imagery Exploitation Centre (JARIC) Gold Rover a memorial service was held at the Jamestown Cenotaph and wreaths were laid. 22 vehicles ‘UK industry has nothing to fear from competition’ Peter Luff, Minister for Defence Equipment, Support and Technology, explains the future of equipment procurement and support to the International Armoured Vehicles Conference

he commitment to open I’m delighted to say this approach is In 2010-2011 the MOD placed 42 per procurement has been the already working. Tarian Quickshield is cent of its contracts with SMEs who offer ‘Tmost talked about aspect of a great example of new battle-winning innovation and flexibility. We’re keen to the White Paper ‘National Security capability developed in partnership with do a lot more business with them. through Technology’ since its launch an SME. In this case Dstl worked with And I want to see more of the bigger on 1 February. This obliges DE&S to Amsafe in Bridport to develop a new form names harnessing this potential. Some actively seek out what the global market of RPG netting. are already seizing the initiative. General has to offer UK Forces in terms of cutting Incredibly light, it’s been described as Dynamics in south Wales has a dedicated edge, high quality kit. It’s about properly ‘band aid’ for bar armour, but it actually technical facility known as The Edge. kitting out our troops at best return for does the job more effectively and at less The Edge searches out new ideas from the British taxpayer. cost. It’s already in service with the across the supply chain and academia. Wherever possible, we’ll be looking to Army in Afghanistan and Singapore And it also works with organisations meet our defence requirements through Technologies Kinetics have signed a such as the MOD-sponsored Centre for open competition in both domestic and Memorandum of Understanding with Defence Enterprise. This is partnership global markets. But the strength of Amsafe so it is available to the customers working which means that across British industry means our companies of their armoured vehicles. the board we are all maximising our should not fear this competition and I see This is the kind of innovative research and technology spend. no reason why the shelf will not remain technology which I am sure will do well Boosting our export market is another well stocked with British products. in the export market. principle of the White Paper. Defence Between 2006-2011 the MOD awarded We’re going to make sure the MOD exports leverage influence with our allies nearly 40,000 new contracts with an is more accessible. The new SME Forum and boost interoperability with their approximate total value of just over £67 which I chair is a realisation of that Armed Forces. Exports can also reduce billion. Of that figure, the number of new pledge. the cost of long term programmes and contracts placed where the majority of We will also do this by ensuring remove some of the associated risks. work occurred within the UK remained individual procurement strategies The UK is already the second largest consistent at around 85-95 per cent. maximise the potential for SMEs at prime defence exporter in the world, with £6 If British industry is as competitive and sub contract level. billion of sales and a 22 per cent share of as I believe it to be and its export record And we’ll be making sure there’s an the market. suggests, then I see no reason why these emphasis on ‘open systems’ factored in In parallel with this drive to boost figures need to decline significantly. to our requirements. So there’s scope the chances of UK industry abroad, we This open procurement approach is for industry to offer the kind of ‘add on’ will also be continuing to develop the particularly good news for Small and systems which enhance major weapons collaboration and partnership we have Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs). And and platforms. with close allies. Working with other vehicles 23 countries offers significant economies of scale which enable us to spread the cost and the risk. The MOD plans to spend £5.5 billion on its core armoured vehicle programme over the next decade. This will involve managing the legacy of Afghanistan as we draw down our operations there and making decisions about which Urgent Operational Requirement vehicles – more than 2,000 of them approved at a cost of £2.8 billion – will now be brought into the Mastiff at work on the front line MOD’s core equipment programme. Below: Foxhound I believe the success of our UOR process pretty much encapsulates our new approach when it comes to off-the- shelf purchase and innovation. Vehicles based on the US Cougar Warthog which have now entered the motorsport industry. fleet and the Bronco from Singapore military vernacular. This pragmatic and This is an amazingly agile piece were purchased as off-the-shelf base innovative approach is definitely the way of kit, with an engine which can be vehicles and then adapted here in the forward. removed and replaced in just 30 minutes. UK – often by SMEs. And then shipped We are committed to more simplified It’s an ideal vehicle for our partnering out to Afghanistan as new battle winning and realistic acquisition strategies and mentoring role we’ll be taking on as capabilities. across our equipment programme, and the process of transition gathers pace in This process of high tech adaptation particularly when it comes to armoured Afghanistan. and integration calls for cutting edge vehicles; to reduce cost; mitigate risks; Foxhound is on schedule to be skills in the UK. These are exactly the and to make sure that adaptability is operating in Afghanistan this summer. kind of projects which will help to factored in from the outset, as opposed The soldiers I have spoken to are develop and sustain our skills base here to rigid over-specification at the drawing genuinely excited by the prospect of its in this country. board stage. arrival. And they should be. I have driven The servicemen and women I’ve met The new Foxhound is a UK design it. I know just how good it is. And just on my visits to theatre speak very highly and 90 per cent of the companies involved how easy it is to drive. of the agility and protection provided in its production are UK-based. In Whatever the size of our future by these vehicles which they know by common with all recent UORs, it exploits vehicle fleet, the decisions we make will their new, adoptive names. Names like state of the art technology. In this case, need to make sure our Forces are ready Mastiff, Ridgback, Wolfhound and that includes the UK’s world-leading and prepared.’

For the full text of Mr Luff's speech, go to http://www.mod. uk/DefenceInternet/AboutDefence/People/Speeches/MinDES /20120221InternationalArmouredVehiclesConference.htm 24 news

The Nimrod story

o Nimrod was introduced into service from 1970 to replace the Shackleton.

o The Comet airframe was chosen because of the relative ease of conversion (notably introduction of the long bomb-bay pannier which could hold nine torpedoes).

o MR1 was essentially a Comet airframe, but with many of the Shackleton avionics ported over as a stop-gap. The plan Team preserves legacy was to introduce the MR2 within ten years with a new generation of mission systems – including of the ‘mighty hunter’ the Searchwater Radar (from Racal) and the AQS-901 Acoustic Processor from GEC– DE&S’ Nimrod team disbanded finished by the end of March. requirements manager with the Marconi. at the end of last month bringing With support from Project team. o 49 Nimrods were to an end more than 40 years’ Hercules, Nimrod parts within During its distinguished produced – 46 as MR1s support to an iconic aircraft. the MOD inventory will have history Nimrods put in sterling and 3 as R1s. Eleven The last few team members been cleared from the system. It service during the ‘Cod Wars’ of the 46 MR1s were have been securing the futures of has all been achieved in a very between Iceland and the UK over converted to AEW a number of the aircraft – the last efficient way.” fishing rights. Mk3 leaving 35 to be of the maritime reconnaissance Some of the ground During the Falklands war converted to MR2 standard between 1979 version (MR2) was withdrawn equipment has been transferred several Nimrods combed the and 1985. in 2010 with the remaining R1 to the Navy while electronic sea for enemy submarines while surveillance aircraft completing warfare equipment from the acting as escorts to the British o The 35 MR2s were its service life during Operation discontinued MRA4 programme Task Force and also providing gradually eroded Ellamy over Libya last year. has gone to the Joint Combat communications relay. with attrition and Thanks to the team, a Aircraft project. Nimrods took part in withdrawals; 14 number will still be seen in The first of the 49 Nimrods Operation Granby – Gulf War fuselages were earmarked for the museums and sites around the saw service in 1970 with the 1990-1991 –Nato operations now abandoned MRA4 country, including RAF Kinloss, surveillance version following a against Serbia in 1999, Operation programme – 12 being Bruntingthorpe, Elvington and few years later. Telic over Iraq in 2003 and used for the programme the RAF Museum at Cosford. “Within Nato the UK had beyond, the campaign in and two more rejected One cockpit has been bought a niche skill in anti-submarine Afghanistan, and over Libya last because of corrosion. by the National Museum of warfare which the RAF had year. o Scotland. long been involved in during They also were a routine The unique XV249, pictured below left, At its height the team and since World War Two,” component of British search and started as an MR1, was made up of hundreds of said Sqn Ldr Geoff Barrett, a rescue operations around the was converted to MR2 members, spread between the former Nimrod navigator and British Isles and further afield. in the early 1980s and RAF stations at Wyton, Kinloss was then withdrawn as and Waddington as well as part of a fleet reduction Abbey Wood and BAE Systems’ endeavour. When XW666 Nimrod R1 XV249 in special livery with the RAF Waddington (one of the original R1s) plant at Warton. station badge and the goose of the RAF's 51 Squadron was ditched in the Moray The last few members are Firth in 1995, XV249 was being redeployed largely to considered the best of Airseeker, Merlin, Sentinel and those aircraft that had Sentry teams, with some leaving been withdrawn from DE&S under voluntary early service and was then release. converted from an MR2 to an R1 under Project “It’s been a challenge to meet Anneka – so named the targets of the disposal but because of the TV series we have hit them very well,” Challenge Anneka. said disposals manager Richard XV249 then served as an Coward. R1 from the late 1990s “Since the team has until withdrawal in 2011. shrunk in size it’s been a big It will be preserved at the RAF Museum at achievement to get the work Cosford. news 25

Ministers The eyes have it! focus on Typhoon weapons

Ministers from partner nations have met to review future strategy for the Typhoon weapon system. Minister for Defence Equipment, Support and Technology Peter Luff hosted the State Secretaries from Germany, Italy and Squadron Spain in London on 12 March. home as Discussions covered all aspects radar of the programme, including, business proves big strategy planning for future capability success enhancements and reviewing export campaigns. The meeting was The ‘Eyes of the Fleet’ at short notice. The SKASaC timely in welcoming arrived back home at Culdrose is fitted with a powerful and new State Secretaries from Italy and Spain last month after more than 15 sophisticated radar – Thales and further developing months in Afghanistan, and UK’s Searchwater 2000 Above: an ASaC Sea King fires working relationships with a ringing endorsement of airborne early warning radar off defensive flares between the European their equipment. – which provides valuable governments and their No 854 Naval Air Squadron battlefield reconnaissance and industry partners. returned from Camp Bastion targeting information in land along with its Sea King operations around southern Airborne Surveillance and Afghanistan. Control (SKASaC) helicopters. Developed to protect Commander Pat Douglas, ships at sea, the front-line Commander Sea King Force, SKASaC Force (854 and 857 said: “From the 2,500 odd Naval Air Squadrons) entered hours flown in theatre and Afghanistan in May 2009 and the numerous hauls of drugs, now claim to be the ‘eyes of the Home of the weapons and explosives, to the desert’. extraordinary serviceability Last summer crews made BATTLEFIELD MISSION of their aircraft, crews have ‘finds’ totalling more than surpassed expectations at seven tonnes of explosives every turn.” which would otherwise Millbrook is an Many miles from the sea have been used to make independent world-leading and their ‘normal’ operating improvised explosive devices, organisation specialising in the areas, the SKASaCs are and thousands of kilograms highly reactive helicopters, of drugs bound for streets development, able to help ground troops around the globe. enhancement and research of military vehicles, as well as being home to the MoD Team guidance on joint working Battlefield Mission New guidance has been issued for DE&S procurement teams working jointly with industry. The Recommended Practice Guide was launched by the MOD’s For further information: Partnering Support Group providing a wealth of information for contact Bruce Lornie on teams. +44 (0)1525 408476 Documents and guides on the Group’s website include [email protected] Partnering Terms of Contract, referred to in the Partnering www.millbrook.co.uk/military Handbook (joint objectives; joint risk; transparency; management and governance; issue management; communication; incentivisation; exit and business relationship management). Other material considered to be good practice includes charters, presentations, template conditions, programmes, tools, required behaviours in a joint working environment and standard wording for documents. Material can be accessed at: http://www.psg.dii.r.mil.uk/ 26 news From Abbey Wood to Lapland

Stress tests on thermal cameras improve the vehicle’s sensor and image Team dons snowshoes for the proposed Scout reconnaissance processing system. vehicle carried out in hostile Arctic Circle The UK team was supported by the on thermal imaging weather have proved a success. Swedish army’s unit for cold weather The three-day trials have involved operations. Thermal imagery was trials to enhance DE&S staff swapping the warmth of Abbey recorded from three cameras on targets Wood for temperatures plunging to –40 including freezing vegetation, disturbed Army’s intelligence degrees Centigrade, where one wrong ground tracks, buildings, vehicles, picture touch could risk frost-bitten fingers. aircraft and people. DE&S’ Scout team was joined by The trials team donned snow shoes to the Army, Dstl, General Dynamics UK simulate infantry in the woods. Images and camera suppliers Thales UK for the were sharp and detailed with superb tonal the edge this is likely to offer the Army. tests in Arvidsjaur, Lapland, a favourite contrast, despite the challenge of showing Scout will be a step change in capability; extreme testing area for companies like cold scene backgrounds and warm objects its integrated recce sub-systems are Volvo, Saab and Scania. at more than 50 degrees Centigrade in the unique, allowing crews to work at greater Thermal imagers work by being same image. stand-off distances, taking access routes sensitive to thermal energy radiating from Roger Braddick, an electro-optic not previously available and contributing a scene. The energy decreases in lower expert from Dstl, said: “Image quality at to a very advanced ground intelligence temperatures, which is a major challenge these low temperatures was demonstrated picture in real time.” for the cameras. to be significantly better than Tests were to evaluate the proposed the user’s current in-service vehicle’s imagers before a review of the equipment. system design, and to gather data to “As a consequence, the sensor will provide advantages to the Scout user at all temperatures. I was impressed with the results and Thales must be Cold comfort: images of people, below, congratulated on the design and the buildings of Arvidsjaur in work they have done.” northern Sweden, right, show clarity Major General Carew of the camerawork, even in the most Wilks, Director Land extreme conditions Equipment at DE&S, said: “This was one of the most stretching sub-system trials on Scout and it passed with flying colours. It is vital to note

Images are ‘the best I have ever seen’

Major Nick Sutherland of 1st Battalion, The vehicles on operations and exercises in Queen’s Dragoon Guards ensured tests took extreme cold and hot climates. Images into account an Army operator’s experience of gathered on these trials are the best I have how a reconnaissance crew sets up, adjusts ever seen. and uses a thermal surveillance camera on “This capability, offered to operational operations, specifically seeking to contrast commanders, will make a huge difference image detail to maximise intelligence. to their intelligence picture; something we Maj Sutherland said: “I have been in rely on greatly to maintain the military edge, Formation Reconnaissance for my whole especially in complex terrains and time- career, commanding a variety of fighting critical engagements.” news 27

Supply chain relationship moves on to a new level

The next stage of a programme between DE&S and Rolls- Royce to improve project performance and delivery in the maritime sector goes live this month. The Supply Chain Relationship in Action (SCRIA) programme between the MOD and Rolls-Royce Naval began in 2008. Its initial phase was jointly managed by Director Ships and the company to make specific improvements to project teams. Phase two saw DE&S and Rolls-Royce develop a stronger, more long-term relationship. Teams involved with legacy gas turbine engine projects, machinery control systems as well as capital ships and destroyers were among those to develop plans for improving team relationships and project performance. MOD and Rolls-Royce members of the programme's management So far the programme has increased performance by team at a benefits workshop, from left: Nigel Andrews, Kevin Earle, between 10 and 31 per cent with benefits including better Matt Nadin, Roger Barnfield, Mary Sinclair, Lawton Green, Sophie communication, more sharing of knowledge and better access Macfarlane-Smith, Andy Taylor, Capt John Newell, David McConnell, to senior staff. The SCRIA approach has now matured and will be Helen Topley, Chris Rawlinson, Tomas Leahy embedded by 12 April.

Warwick Now it’s ‘green for go’ at to honour munitions Corsham data centre depot

DE&S PERSONNEL at Defence Munitions First part of Kineton are among those to be honoured wider network with the Freedom of Warwick. Kineton is the to earn full biggest munitions depot in Europe and authority trains servicemen and women in bomb The first logistic data centre – disposal. which hosts defence information Warwick Town Council will hand over and communication applications keys to the town to – has been given the green light Kineton in a Freedom to begin its work. ceremony at Warwick The first Authority to Operate Castle on 18 May. was issued by DE&S’ Information The council Systems and Services Network is honouring Operating Authority. the barracks for supporting the town It allows a capability for more than 70 to operate continuously on years. the Defence Information The last time and Communications a group was given Services Network which Freedom of the Town incorporates all computing and was in the 1960s when telecommunications to allow Green for go: the Corsham data centre has its authority to operate. From the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers received the defence to function effectively. left: Mr Jeff Pete (Boeing Defence UK), Brigadier Alan Clacher (outgoing honour. The data centre at Spring Hd LogNEC), Air Commodore Tim Bishop (Head of Service Operations), Brigadier Paul Towers (Head Network Technical Authority), Mr Dave Commanding Park, Corsham – Data Centre 1 Bartlemay (Boeing Defence UK), Air Commodore Barrie Thomson Officer at Kineton, – is managed by Boeing Defence (incoming Head Logistics Network Enabled Capability) Lt Col Simon Hirst UK as part of the wider Logistic of the Royal Logistic Network Enabled Capability. Corps, said: “It is an Logistic applications from a month period of monitoring by products which impact on honour to have been offered the Freedom number of legacy MOD sites are the Authority following detailed the Defence Network should of such a prestigious being moved to the new data assessment by the Network contact the Network Technical and beautiful town as centre. Technical Authority of the impact Authority’s Task Assessment and Warwick. The centre is the first it may have on the existing Control Team group mailbox “We have gladly component of the wider Defence network. at DES ISS NTA-PortalMailbox accepted and will Network infrastructure to be This has made sure it is (multiuser). exercise the right granted the full Authority to operating efficiently on the This will help transition of to march through the town in the best Operate. Defence Network. capabilities onto the defence military fashion.” The facility has passed a six- Any project teams delivering network. 28 news Devonport dock revamp signals efficient future

A new dock caisson is floated

Refurbishment of the frigate refit Each 100-tonne door is 28 metres by Agreement between DE&S and Babcock. complex is part of the latest investment 40 with 50 tonnes of counterbalancing This maximises efficiency of Babcock’s transforming Devonport’s dockyard. weights in each tower of the dock owned and managed infrastructure, New dock caissons are also being entrance. Built in the 1970s, the doors including Devonport and Rosyth, which installed as Babcock looks to improve were becoming unreliable. The first is will help save money for the MOD. efficiency and ultimately save money as currently being replaced with the last due Another agreement is in place with BAE part of a long-term deal with DE&S. to be in place this September. The new Systems at Portsmouth. Babcock site managing director doors are around 35 tonnes. “The programme is a significant and Phil Jones said: “Some of the dock Old cladding on the west face of demanding one, and will be ongoing for infrastructure at Devonport is reaching the complex is being replaced and the several years,” said Mr Jones. “It will the end of its initial design life. Reviews refurbishment will help three-stream deliver significant improvements and with the MOD have confirmed the unique surface ship refitting, under cover, for result in an appropriate infrastructure and strategic assets at the site for future long-term warship upgrades. to deliver naval support with optimum support of the Royal Navy’s surface and Some of the older caissons – structures efficiency for surface ships and submarine fleet and we now have a future at the entrance to docks that allow them submarines.” strategic plan. A number of projects are to be emptied or water levels maintained being implemented as a result.” – are being replaced. The latest at the Refurbishment of the frigate refit entrance to Basin 2 began commissioning complex includes replacement of the three trials in January. Further work on Babcock ties up rope massive doors and re-cladding, as well as penstocks which control water flow into contract for the Navy new offices for the warship support teams the docks will complete in June. (see page 30). Two cranes are also being relocated to Babcock will supply ropes and technical 10 dock as part services to all classes of Royal Navy surface of the Centre ships. for Amphibious Under a thee-year contract, the company S u p p o r t will provide management, new manufacture, Devon Samson engineering support, post-design services, gets to work Excellence being technical support and training relating to High as doors are established Modulus Polyethylene rope and fittings. removed from there, with a Smaller, stronger ropes are replacing the frigate refit major refit of all steel wire ropes and large, heavy and complex the 40-year- often cumbersome synthetic ropes. The new old specialist ropes will have a range of uses not previously and rare self- possible. This will reduce the number of ropes carried by each vessel, reducing manpower propelled and meaning traditionally labour-intensive floating Devon tasks can be done more quickly. Samson crane. The HMPE Ropes and Technical Services Work is contract is the latest Navy-related contract being carried out for the company. Others include firefighting under the Terms and damage control equipment, electrical and electronic components, electric motors, of Business pumps, and domestic equipment. news 29

MOD replies in a timely way

The MOD meets the minimum standard of compliance for responding to Freedom of Information (FOI) requests. The FOI process provides people with requested official DE&S’ Helicopter Engines team, receiving project teams becomes above, has disbanded and its work available. information inside Engine taken on by the various individual Business benefits include 20 working days. helicopter teams. closer alignment between platform The MOD has support The team, responsible for engines, and engine support, especially been monitored auxiliary power units and accessories in programming, safety and by the Information makes on a number of different helicopters, airworthiness terms. Commissioner's formally ceased to exist on 1 April. This will be further reinforced as Office (ICO). the big The move comes as a result engine support moves to contracting of restructuring in DE&S and the for availability arrangements that Between April switch Helicopter Operating Centre and the dovetail with similar arrangements and June 2011 the need to do business differently. for each helicopter. MOD answered as team’s This move sees an end to the Director Helicopters Adrian 81 per cent of commodity approach for support and Baguley acknowledged the Helicopter requests on time, acquisition of helicopter engines that Engines team’s record in delivery, and 84 per cent work has existed for 18 years since the most notably in support of operations, between July and formation of the Defence Helicopter while recognising that the team was comes to Support Authority at Yeovilton. in the vanguard of changes facing September. October Relocation of staff has already the operating centre following the to December is an end begun and will continue over the Strategic Defence and Security expected to be 85 coming months as desk space in the Review. per cent on time. Sessions across DE&S keep staff informed

Staff across sites with a large DE&S presence have been hearing about the Materiel Strategy and interim structure for DE&S in town hall sessions and roadshows. Chief of Defence Materiel Bernard Gray hosted a briefing for staff from Information Systems and Services at Corsham at the end of February. He spoke of the progress on designing an interim structure which would allow DE&S to deliver its outputs with fewer people before moving over to a Above: Bernard Gray addresses Equipment safety at Abbey Wood new operating model. staff at Corsham He also touched on the The Environmental Safety Assurance Symposium voluntary release scheme, the Materiel Strategy on 16 February. (ESAS) – the MOD’s flagship symposium on equipment excellent work DE&S continues Angela Lidiard, Deputy Head safety and environmental management – will be at Abbey to do supporting operations in Materiel Strategy Engagement, Wood on 12 and 13 June. Afghanistan, and the scale of was joined by Stephanie Hislop on The symposium, in partnership with Atkins, will explore “The Challenge of Change” and will consider bringing home the huge amounts both visits. how the MOD and industry can continue to improve of equipment once Operation The Materiel Strategy team has equipment safety and environmental management in the Herrick is completed. pledged to continue the road show face of future sector changes. DE&S staff at Donnington programme to keep staff informed To register as a delegate or to exhibit at this event, and Bicester were briefed on the of events. visit: www.esas2012.co.uk 30 news Working in a ‘one-stop-shop’

Open for business, right: Babcock's COM Director Mark Lawther and Managing Director Devonport Phil Jones (left) join Vice Admiral Andrew Mathews, Commodore Steve Dearden, Naval Base Commander at Devonport, and Captain Chris Saxby, SFM Devonport (right) at the formal opening

Open for business, left: Roy Brenton (Defence General Munitions assistant leader), Lee Parker, Glascoed Transformation Manager, Col Richard Aspray (DGM leader), Lee Smurthwaite (Global Combat Systems Munitions Operations Director) and Huw Devonport’s Samuel (General Manager, Glascoed) new offices, housing an MOD/Royal Navy/Babcock Class Output Management (COM) team was opened on DE&S staff will be working DE&S staff work DE&S and the company’s Global 12 March by DE&S’ Chief of side-by-side with industry Combat Systems Munitions Materiel (Fleet) Vice Admiral colleagues in two major sites side-by-side with staff to work together in Andrew Mathews. which have opened new offices modern offices, which also The Surface Ship Support in the last few weeks. industry partners include meeting rooms and a Alliance between DE&S, Babcock and BAE Systems Munitions staff will join kitchen. has revolutionised surface BAE Systems in a joint office to deliver support Although the main MOD warship support through-life, at Glascoed in south Wales, user is expected to be the DE&S bringing significant annual the latest milestone in the project team, the offices can be savings. MASS partnership – Munitions Glascoed offices on 21 February. used by other MOD staff with Full COM implementation Acquisition, the Supply Solution “The facility represents a key business at Glascoed. involves greater delegation to – which guarantees supply of milestone and an opportunity Under the MASS industry on a performance- based ‘contracting for ammunition for UK Forces’ for developing the way we agreement, BAE Systems is availability’ basis. Among training and operations. work together on the MASS investing £40 million over ships the COM team looks And in Devonport a new Partnership,” he said. five years to modernise its after Sandown class mine- warship support facility will The offices, funded by BAE Glascoed site. This has already countermeasures vessels see DE&S and Royal Navy Systems, are reconstructed seen new laboratories, a and half the Type 23 frigates. personnel working with from old laboratories in the new pyrotechnics facility, The new Devonport COM Babcock to support the Fleet. headquarters area at Glascoed. installation of a new medium facility in the Frigate Refit Complex brings together the Col Richard Aspray, DE&S’ Fifteen of the 70 workstations calibre ammunition assembly industry and MOD/RN COM Defence General Munitions will be DII(F)-wired to machine and enhancement of staff for the Babcock-led (DGM) leader, opened the maximise the opportunity for the existing bulk magazines. COMs in modern offices. The new facility features full Defence Information Infrastructure connectivity, meeting rooms, video Conference assures future conferencing, a training facility including the Unit of combat power Maintenance Management Through Life Support – Combat Power System, along with an office Assured was the theme for the fourth MOD- for 80 people. Industry Logistics Conference at Abbey Wood. Babcock COM Director The 2 March conference attended by more Mark Lawther said: than 200 explored how industry and defence “Facilities here in Devonport can work together to improve delivery of and are much the same as those support to equipment capabilities. in the Portsmouth COM Major General Ian Copeland (Director Joint office, for commonality from Support Chain) hosted the conference facilitated the customer’s perspective, by Brigadier David Martin (Head of Support and helping to promote the Chain Management). ‘one-stop-shop’ ethos. The event drew on expertise from defence, “We’ve built an industry and academia with Major General experienced COM team, Carew Wilks (Director Land Equipment), Air and with all the necessary Vice-Marshal Simon Bollom (Director Combat IT connectivity in place Air) and Commodore Brian Archibald (Head and the integrated team Surface Combatants) discussing procurement now collocated in the new and support challenges. The 2013 Conference is Major General Ian Copeland opens the 2012 MOD- waterfront office, we’re ready scheduled for Thursday 7 March. Industry Logistics Conference to continue these improved ways of working.” people news

Picture courtesy The News, Portsmouth

Portsmouth’s queen of pilots – that’s Rachel

The only female Admiralty pilot has been awarded a highly prestigious award. Captain Rachel Dunn, one of 11 Admiralty pilots in Portsmouth, now holds the Victoria Drummond award, the highest honour given to women members of the marine officers’ union NUMAST. The award recognises raising the status of women in the maritime industry and is named after Victoria o Ray Brooks, pictured left, a Alexandrina Drummond, one of veteran of deployments to Iraq Queen Victoria’s goddaughters who and Afghanistan to support DE&S clothing work, has received his was the first female marine engineer operational medals. in Britain and the first female member As a retired regular officer Ray of the Institute of Marine Engineers. has been the operations support Victoria served in the Merchant manager for DE&S’ Defence Navy for more than 40 years and Clothing team. received the MBE for her actions He has deployed to Operations Telic and Herrick to advise, deliver while under attack at sea. and implement new clothing Rachel started work as a trainee equipment to Front Line Commands. pilot in April 2010 and passed her He also briefed incoming and final examination last September. outgoing unit quartermasters and Her career started in 1984 with staff on new items, returning with Shell Tankers and she became a key operational clothing issues for second mate in 1987. She gained her further development. RAF Air Commodore Ro Masters (unlimited) ticket in 1993 Atherton is pictured presenting Ray while still with Shell. with his operational medals. Due to impending marriage Rachel left Shell in 1994 to join n Clyde base commander, Commodore Wightlink ferries in Portsmouth. She Mike Wareham, was on hand to mark the was the first female officer employed retirement – and a long walk home – of a by Wightlink and began a 16-year Navy Petty Officer after 30 years in the career as Master in 1996. service. Outside work, Rachel has given Commdore Wareham presented presentations to the Isle of Wight Sea Tim ‘Yorkie’ Stout, far right, with his Cadets and been involved in their Valedictory Certificate from the Second promotion board. Sea Lord before the 47-year-old began his The mother of three daughters 252-mile walk all the way to Yorkshire. has given further presentations to It is all in a good cause – Yorkie hopes Fareham College careers days and to raise £100 for every year he’s been in the numerous primary schools in the Royal Navy so that could be £3,000 for the local area. Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity. Rachel is a committee member Yorkie has spent a large part of his with the Southampton Master career in Scotland, at Faslane in the west Mariners Club and has also and Rosyth in the east. represented the club as Sea Staff Captain. 32 people news

DSRA Lottery winners Kevin’s marathon challenge January £10,000: Paul Smyth (Craigiehall). £5,000: Philip is simply four-midable Eley (Aldershot). £2,000: Peter Ginnever (Abbey Wood). £1,000: Fleet liaison manager Kevin Deborah Hilton Watkins has set himself a punishing (RAF Cranwell). four-marathon target – including a £500: Thomas Channel swim and a Transatlantic Allen (RAF row – to stress the importance of Leeming). £300: early cancer treatment. Michael Murphy Kevin, a Royal Navy Lieutenant (Rosyth), Timothy Roe Commander, is engaged to fiancée (London), Katherine Meyer, who works with Pamela him at Director Ships. The two met Widdows at Abbey Wood seven years ago. (Andover), Ian Katherine has terminal secondary Morris (North breast cancer with a short life- Colerne). £200: expectancy. Graham Bassett (Leicester), “Katherine’s breast cancer is the Marian Green generation of this challenge to me,” (Lisburn), said Kevin. John Hilton “If I can inspire just one person Forerunner: (Bicester), Lloyd to get themselves checked out for May (Devon), Kevin completes cancer so they don’t have to go to the Anthony endgame then I will have succeeded. Corcoran the Bath half (Cheshire), marathon in “The treatment for cancer can Philip Doyle preparation be fairly grim but the statistics are (Abbey Wood), for the first encouraging if you get yourself Deborah of his quartet checked out early enough.” Dawson (Abbey of gruelling He added: “I’m not a runner, I’m events Wood), Martin not a natural swimmer and I’m not Rose (Middle a rower. But I have plenty of belief Wallop), John Lewis (Colerne), in myself, and I believe that a lot of Lynda Perry it is mental. I’m in training and it’s (Larkhill), going very well. Katherine won’t be Watson around to see most of the events but Robinson I’m hoping she can see me run the (RNAD London Marathon.” Coulport). Best Kevin completed the Bath half £100: James Clark (Babcock marathon last month as a practice Marine), feet run for the London Marathon later Alastair this month. Goodson forward Next year he will take to the (Abbey Wood), waters of the English Channel off Peter Williams Dover for the swim to France. (Upavon), Nicola for Langley-Stevens In 2014 he has earmarked the (RAF Wyton), Marathon des Sables as the next Robert Wheatley DE&S stage of his challenge. The six- (Bicester), day 156-mile ultramarathon – the Colin Hawkins dozens equivalent of six regular marathons (Vector), – sees runners take on the toughest Fiona Taylor foot race in the world across the (Liverpool), sands of the Sahara. John Malley Dozens of runners The following year Kevin has (Helensburgh), from DE&S sites Derek Wheeldon across the country set himself the task of rowing (Donnington), will be taking part in the the Atlantic from the Canaries to Garry London Marathon on 22 April, raising many Antigua, a distance of around 3,000 McPherson thousands of pounds for charity. miles. It will be a two-person boat, (Cove, Argyll Typical of the dediction of many are two workers at Devonport, in and he’s currently hunting around and Bute), training for their first marathons. for a fellow rower. Vineet Paul Chief Inspector Claire Pitcher, above left, of the MOD Police, joins (London), Royal Naval Social worker Penny Hadfield Bennett, right on the run. As well as raising cancer Peter Darlow Claire’s funds will go towards the Personnel Recovery Centre awareness Kevin will be raising (Salisbury), being built in the naval base to treat service personnel with long- money for a number of charities, David Tyrer term rehabilitation needs due to combat and non-combat injuries or including Breast Cancer Care, and (PPPA), Anita trauma. service charities. Harrington Penny works for the Naval Personal and Family Service Follow Kevin’s progress at (Corsham), organisation looking after the welfare of families and serving http://www.realbuzz.com/blogs/u/ Andrew personnel in their hour of need. Kilding (RAF She is running for Plymouth-based Jeremiah’s Journey which FourDashes/four-years-four- Brampton). supports grieving children and their parents. challenges/posts/don-t-really-know- where-to-start/ people news 33 Victoria honoured to show at the Tate

A Clyde worker was honoured to display Sector hardship fund used by the Union some of her artwork at a prestigious to help members experiencing financial London show. difficulty. By day Victoria McQueen, 39, pictured Victoria said: “I have been painting left, helps run the Submarine Command for more than 20 years and have sold all Team Trainer at the base. over the world during that time, mostly In her spare time she is a keen artist on a commission basis. who has sold more than 100 paintings. “A friend of mine forwarded my Victoria was asked to contribute to name to the Tate Modern Gallery the Secret Art Show, an event run by the representative and before I knew it I was Public and Commercial Services Union invited to send some work. in conjunction with the Tate Modern “They also asked if I could give a talk to showcase creative talents of its at the show, but unfortunately I wasn’t members. able to make it. The event took place on 7 March at “I have been an amateur astronomer the Rag Factory, near London’s Brick since the age of eight. A lot of my Lane, with the public having the chance paintings are about my interest and the to purchase original artworks. picture I donated to the show was painted Victoria’s painting, entitled from a plate from the Hubble telescope. “Boomerang Nebula” and reflecting her “It is a huge honour to be asked other passion – astronomy – went for an to provide a painting, especially as it’s undisclosed amount at the show. in conjunction with the Tate Modern All money raised went to the Culture Gallery.” ISS team gives Herc the big charity heave-ho!

Now Dan’s Pulling power: a Royal personnel from ISS' Marine South Atlantic BBC presenter Islands Dan Snow, above, unit make now knows what short work it takes to be a of dragging Commando, thanks 70 tonnes to the Royal Marines of Hercules of Clyde naval base. at Mount Dan was filming Pleasant, for BBC’s One Show Falkland on wartime training, Islands with the modern-day Marines from Fleet It’s an uphill task on Protection Group putting him to the Falklands runway test at Achnacarry Castle. Marines kitted out the presenter in uniform, webbing DE&S tri-service team members Association. Team members Pleasant has a slight gradient and a rifle, before have put their backs into a were also raising funds for a which increased the challenge to taking him on a Hercules pull to raise cash for local Falkland Islands charity, the the DE&S team. Commando speed charity. Steven Jaffray memorial trust, Following the event the team march. The 30-strong team from which provides financial support and spectators enjoyed a family Royal Marine Captain Harry Information Systems and to dependants of sick and injured day at the unit's headquarters. Lane, who led the Services' South Atlantic Islands islanders who require medical The unit's cable maintenance march, said: “It was unit dragged the 70-tonne care overseas, so that they can and installation section also a cracking day and transport aircraft a kilometre at accompany them. organised a themed party at its Dan handled the Mount Pleasant Airfield. The event was organised by resident bar. speed march very More than £5,000 raised will WO2 John Blowes with the team Further donations well.” Dan’s report on go to the Royal Naval Benevolent managing a practice pull over can be made at www. Commando Training Trust, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity 200 metres before the main event. virginmoneygiving.com/ was due to be shown and the Royal Air Forces The runway at Mount herculespull website. early this month. 34 people news

Practice makes perfect in latest awards

DE&S staff are well to the Overall winner was Deep- commended for a through- fore for their application of good Secure Limited based on work life supportability learning practice in defence work. demonstrating use in defence and development model that Much of it was commended of signed and encrypted e-mail provides a framework to have in the third annual Good over the internet. This provides supportability engineering skills Practice Marketplace and simple-to-use, standards- standardised across defence. Excellence Awards held in based enabling technology for Other finalists presenting Bristol. e-mail that allows small and were the partnership of Boeing The awards are organised medium-sized enterprises to Defence UK and the MOD for by the UK Council for communicate securely with business improvements in Electronic Business (UKCeB) in one another, with the MOD and the first 12 months of the Log collaboration with the MOD. major defence contractors. NEC programme; the MOD for During the day, six finalists A Highly Commended Award work on the Support Solutions each had ten minutes to present was made to Allan Webb for a Envelope refresh programme their case study to compete for spares optimisation solution driving change across DE&S; the Excellence awards. that gives users improved and General Dynamics UK for The judging panel came visibility of spares inventory, work in changing the perception from academia, industry, MOD leading to significant cost of human factors within a large and UKCeB and were presented savings and improved spares prime systems integrator. by Brigadier Alan Clacher, availability to operations. UKCeB members account Brigadier Alan Clacher, outgoing Head of the Logistic The MOD and industry, for around 90 per cent of the outgoing Head of Log (NEC), Network Enabled Capability including Rolls-Royce and budget spent by the MOD with presents the winning award to programme (Log NEC). BAE Systems, were jointly UK defence contractors. Colin Nash of Deep-Secure. Peter’s work tops the human DE&S helps David to his league The First ‘H’ engineer charter mark Rowbotham Memorial Prize for David TongE has become “As the Director Technical training programme for the making defence the first member of Defence skills lead I must ensure the engineering specialism in DE&S. products user- friendly has been Engineering and Science continued development of our “The advances that David awarded. Group’s Guided Development young engineers and help support Diamond and his team have made Peter Wilkinson, Scheme to achieve Chartered the engineering strategy in together with David Tonge’s Technologist Advisor Engineer status and promotion delivering safe and professional excellent achievements are the for Human Factors to C1 grade. engineering. I congratulate first of many positive steps Integration at BAE David, who was one of David on his personal success towards achieving our goal of a Systems, took the first graduates to join the and will monitor his progress solid foundation for engineering the award after an outstanding scheme when it was launched in as one of our new Chartered in the MOD.” career promoting 2010, said: “Prior to joining the Engineers.” Further information on and applying such DESG scheme I had worked for a Howard Mathers, Director the scheme is available from integration in couple of years as an engineer in Technical, added: “The scheme manager Wendy Stocks on 01225 systems engineer industry. is a crucial component of the 449475 (9355 49475). practice at BAE “This previous experience, Systems and combined with my time on the across the defence community. DESG scheme and a challenging Peter was GDS post in the Defence selected by a Ordnance Safety Group, gave judging panel me sufficient technical and representing DE&S, commercial experience to gain Cranfield University, Chartered status. UKCeB and the “The GDS has helped kick MOD/Industry HFI Working Group and start my career in the MOD presented with his and I hope that it will prove award at a ceremony as successful for other GDS in Bristol when members.” UKCeB awards were The scheme supports and handed out to DE&S advises members as they and industry (see above). work towards professional The annual registration. David Diamond, award honours who helped set up the scheme, the memory of said: “There has been a Humphrey ‘H’ concerted effort from a variety Rowbotham and his of stakeholders to help build and work in the field support the GDS over the last 18 of human factors for the MOD and months and it is fantastic to see David Tonge, second from left, is joined by, from left Engineering Policy industry. our first success. team leader Clive Buckley, Howard Mathers and David Diamond people news 35

A ‘bottom-up’ view of DE&S ship maintenance

Friends of HMS Monmouth have been enjoying the ‘lowlights’ which the ship is a twinned, and further afield to see the ship on their latest visit to the Type 23 frigate which is currently out of the water. under maintenance at Devonport. The ship left dry dock at the end of February after six weeks As a result, the affiliate organisations linked toHMS of vital repairs before operational sea training takes place and a Monmouth were invited to see ‘their’ ship from a unique return to operational tasking. perspective. The highlight (or ‘lowlight’) of the visit was the HMS Monmouth’s commanding officer, Commander Dean dock bottom tour, where the visitors were given the rare chance Bassett, said: “This was an excellent opportunity for us to build to walk under the ship as the hull towered above them in its on the strong links we have with ‘our’ town and to give our giant ‘garage’. affiliates the chance to view the ship from an unusual vantage HMS Monmouth’s affiliates travelled from Monmouth, with point.”

Geoff’s night shift gets 2012 off to an explosive start

DE&S orienteer Geoff Ellis outshone a strong field to take his second podium finish in 12 months at a British championships. The New Forest hosted the British Night Orienteering Championships and the area chosen for the event provided a tough challenge on subtle terrain where small, indistinct features made the challenge of navigating at night even more pronounced. Good strong running with accurate navigation saw Geoff, an RAF Flight Lieutenant, of DE&S Information Systems and Services’ Networks team make good progress around the course, rising to the navigational problems posed. He was only bettered by a competitor who has just moved up into the male 35-40 year old category, who eased clear by just over two minutes. Both he and Geoff were a significant distance ahead of their rivals and sets Geoff off on the right foot for 2012 as he aims to build on his 2011 successes.

DINs - released this month Defence Instructions and Notices (DINs) are defence-wide instructions, guidance and notices for military and civilian staff, containing up-to-the-minute information to help people carry out their duties. Some of the latest issued on Defence Equipment and Support are:

2012DIN04-023: Saxon patrol equipment is obsolete and the supporting Army Equipment Support Publications in this DIN have been cancelled and removed from Technical Documentation On-Line (DTOL)

2012DIN04-027: JSP 509 Management of Test Equipment has come into force. Units that deploy to locations without access to the Defence Intranet requiring access to JSP 509 during deployment may apply for CD copies at deslegsg-di- [email protected]. Demands for CD copies should contain the UIN and quantity required.

2012DIN04-031: Disposal Services Authority has run a competitive tender to dispose of miscellaneous equipment, clothing and textiles, medical and dental, small vessels and official gifts and memorabilia. A new contract for these commodities has been place with Disposal Services Limited and replaces previous contracts with Field Textiles and Ramco.

2012DIN04-041: This DIN announces changes to the framework contracts for supply to libraries, branches, units and establishments in the MOD of various categories of commercial publication (publications purchased from a commercial bookseller or publisher).

Further information and more details on the latest DINs see: http://defenceintranet.diiweb.r.mil.uk/DefenceIntranet/Library/CivilianAndJointService/AtoZ/DinsIndex2012.htm LTPA T&E begins here Are we on your radar for T&E?

The Long Term Partnering Agreement (LTPA) is an innovative collaborative approach to provide Test and Evaluation, Training and support services to the MOD. Air Land The LTPA is a framework agreement under which the majority of your Sea fixed costs associated with Test and Evaluation are centrally funded.

If your project has a T&E requirement call now, or visit the website to find out if the costs of your trial are covered under the LTPA.

0800 015 0594 www.LTPA.co.uk www.LTPA.co.uk is a QinetiQ registered domain name.