UK Defence News Round-up: Week 49 (2024)

Hadean Lands £20M MoD Deal

Hadean, a UK-based leader in defence technology, has signed a landmark Enterprise Lite Agreement (EA Lite) worth up to £20 million with the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD). This deal highlights Hadean’s commitment to advancing artificial intelligence (AI) and synthetic technologies, reinforcing the UK’s national security while supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The agreement cements Hadean’s role as a global leader in AI and synthetic technology, positioning the UK to rapidly integrate emerging tech into its defence capabilities. As global security challenges evolve, Hadean’s technology enables the MoD to quickly adopt innovative solutions to stay ahead in an increasingly complex environment.

Hadean’s technology enhances military training by combining live, virtual, and constructive simulations. These high-fidelity simulations offer realistic, cost-effective alternatives to traditional exercises, reducing the risks to personnel. The simulations support a variety of applications, including AI training, uncrewed vehicle operations, wargaming, and real-time insights for mission planning and live operations.

Craig Beddis, CEO of Hadean, expressed pride in the collaboration, emphasizing how the deal will shape the future of UK defence. He highlighted the importance of supporting indigenous start-ups and fostering innovation in the defence sector. “We’re excited to help the MoD stay at the forefront of technological advancements,” said Beddis.

The MoD also reiterated its commitment to nurturing the UK’s start-up ecosystem, recognizing SMEs like Hadean as vital contributors to national security. A MoD spokesperson praised the agreement as an opportunity to bring cutting-edge technologies into defence, ensuring that UK forces have access to the best tools to safeguard the nation’s security.

Credit; BMT

BMT Acquires AMT to Expand Engineering Capabilities

BMT, a leading provider of engineering, technology, and consultancy services, has announced the acquisition of AMT, a renowned firm specializing in advanced engineering solutions. This strategic acquisition will strengthen BMT’s capabilities, particularly in the defence, maritime, and energy sectors, while enhancing its position as a global leader in innovation.

AMT brings a wealth of expertise in complex engineering projects, which complements BMT’s established track record of delivering cutting-edge solutions to clients worldwide. The acquisition will allow BMT to expand its service offerings, particularly in areas such as systems integration, digital transformation, and high-tech consultancy services.

The deal is expected to significantly enhance BMT’s ability to serve its clients with a broader range of integrated, technology-driven solutions. It will also create new opportunities for collaboration and innovation, with the combined company now better positioned to address the evolving needs of the global marketplace.

BMT’s CEO expressed excitement about the acquisition, emphasizing that the addition of AMT’s capabilities will further strengthen its market position and ability to deliver value to customers across key industries. The acquisition marks a significant milestone in BMT’s growth strategy and its ongoing commitment to driving technological advancements in engineering and consultancy.

With this acquisition, BMT aims to continue providing exceptional service and innovative solutions to its clients, reinforcing its commitment to supporting industries that are vital to global infrastructure, security, and sustainability.

Credit: ARGON ELECTRONICS

Argon Launches FHZ612-SIM Simulator

Argon Electronics has introduced the FHZ612-SIM Simulator, a new addition to its range of simulation accessories, designed to enhance training with the Thermo Fisher Scientific FH40 G-SIM system. The FHZ612-SIM extension radiation probe is built to work with the FH40 G-SIM, enabling users to effectively simulate the operation of the Thermo Fisher FH 40 TG Teleprobe. This innovative training tool aims to improve the safe and accurate use of radiological equipment, particularly in environments where understanding radiation exposure is critical.

The FHZ612-SIM is based on the Thermo Fisher FH40 TG Teleprobe, equipped with a FHZ612 detector. It allows for realistic training scenarios where personnel can experience the correct application of shielding techniques and the importance of distance when dealing with radiation sources. By deploying Argon’s safe and environmentally friendly simulated radiological sources, the system offers users the ability to practice in a controlled, safe environment without exposure to actual radioactive materials.

A key feature of the FHZ612-SIM is its dual measurement system. The FH40G-SIM’s display shows the difference in dose rates at two points: one shielded by the Teleprobe and the other exposed directly to the simulation source through the mounted FHZ612 detector. This enables trainees to visualize the effects of shielding and distance on radiation exposure, fostering better understanding of safety protocols and radiation management.

The FHZ612-SIM system is designed for cost-effective training solutions, as it is compatible with the existing Thermo Fisher Teleprobe. This compatibility allows organizations to integrate the simulator into their current training programs without the need for costly new equipment. The simulation system also eliminates the need for regular calibration or maintenance, making it a low-maintenance option for ongoing training needs.

Steven Pike, Founder and Managing Director of Argon Electronics, expressed his enthusiasm for the new product, noting the positive feedback from early trials with nuclear power stations. He emphasized that the FHZ612-SIM enhances training in radiological hazard management, offering versatile, regulation-free scenarios for various training needs. With its ability to simulate a wide range of Beta/Gamma search, contamination monitoring, and dose rate assessment scenarios, the FHZ612-SIM is poised to become an essential tool in radiation safety training programs.

Credit: ROC TECHNOLOGIES

Roc Technologies Unveils Security Operations Centre

Roc Technologies, a leading IT services provider, has launched its new Security Operations Centre (SOC) to enhance cybersecurity across the UK. The SOC aims to provide accessible and effective cybersecurity solutions to businesses and public sector organisations of all sizes, addressing the increasing complexity and sophistication of cyber threats. With 24/7/365 monitoring and tailored security services, the SOC is designed to help organisations strengthen their defences and improve resilience against cyberattacks.

The SOC offers a modular and scalable approach, allowing small and mid-sized businesses as well as larger enterprises to benefit from high-level security services without the prohibitive costs or internal expertise often associated with such protection. Roc Technologies ensures that its services are adaptable to meet the unique needs of each organisation, offering a flexible alternative to traditional, one-size-fits-all solutions.

Operated in-house by Roc Technologies’ UK-based team of highly qualified analysts and engineers, the SOC stands apart from competitors who rely on outsourced, non-UK resources. The service is built on a foundation of trust and local expertise, with 80% of the delivery team being fully security vetted. The SOC operates continuously, providing real-time monitoring, threat detection, and incident response to safeguard clients’ systems and data. The service also aligns with UK data sovereignty laws, ensuring that all data is managed and stored within the country’s borders.

Roc Technologies’ new SOC is designed to integrate seamlessly with customers’ existing IT infrastructures, offering them the flexibility to select services that complement their current capabilities. This approach allows organisations to improve their security posture without disrupting daily operations, providing a cost-effective solution that delivers both protection and operational efficiency.

Chelsea Chamberlin, Chief Technology Officer at Roc Technologies, highlighted the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality cybersecurity services to a broad range of organisations. She emphasised that the new SOC was built with flexibility and resilience in mind, offering businesses the peace of mind they need in an increasingly complex cyber threat landscape. Drawing from its extensive experience across sectors like defence, higher education, and government, Roc Technologies’ SOC meets rigorous industry standards, including ISO 27001 and Cyber Essentials Plus certifications, ensuring top-tier security and compliance for all clients.