UK Unveils Ambitious Plan to Become Global Leader in Drone Technology
The UK Government has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to become a world leader in uncrewed defence systems, also known as drones. This ambitious plan, backed by £4.6 billion in investment over the next decade, aims to harness the growing importance of drone technology for national security and economic prosperity.
The strategy comes in response to the rapidly evolving landscape of warfare, where conflicts like the ongoing war in Ukraine have highlighted the increasing use and effectiveness of uncrewed systems. The UK recognizes the need to adapt and stay ahead of the curve in this critical technological domain.
The plan outlines four key objectives:
- Speeding Up Acquisition: The UK aims to streamline its procurement processes to ensure faster and more adaptable acquisition of uncrewed systems. This will involve learning from experiences like the Ukraine conflict and implementing iterative development cycles for continuous improvement.
- Building a Strong Domestic Industry: The strategy emphasizes the importance of a robust domestic industrial base for uncrewed systems. This includes fostering onshore design and production, creating a resilient supply chain, and supporting small and medium-sized businesses in the sector.
- Seamless Integration and Collaboration: The UK plans to define clear digital architectures to enable seamless integration and interoperability of uncrewed systems across different domains, such as air, land, and sea. This will involve collaborating with international partners and ensuring robust cybersecurity measures.
- Encouraging Innovation: The strategy recognizes the crucial role of innovation in maintaining a competitive edge. The UK plans to establish test areas and foster a culture that encourages rapid development and adaptation of uncrewed systems technologies.
The successful delivery of the Ukraine-UK uncrewed systems initiative is a top priority for the initial phase of the strategy. The UK also plans to engage extensively with industry, regulators, and international partners to ensure effective implementation and collaboration.
This ambitious plan positions the UK as a frontrunner in the development and deployment of uncrewed defence systems. By investing in domestic capabilities, fostering innovation, and collaborating with allies, the UK aims to secure a leading role in this rapidly growing and strategically significant technological field.
The full report released on 22nd February 2024 can be found on the UK Gov website by googling “UK Defence Drone Strategy” and exploring the links.
Aurora Engineering Partnership Secures £13 Million Contract to Support UK’s New Frigate Programs
The Aurora Engineering Partnership (Aurora EDP) comprised of QinetiQ, Atkins Realis, and BMT, has secured a new £13 million contract from Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S). As the primary route for procuring engineering services for the UK Ministry of Defence, Aurora EDP will provide essential engineering support to DE&S Ship Acquisition Naval Ship Delivery Group (NSDG) combat systems teams.
Led by QinetiQ and supported by BMT and the broader Aurora Provider Network, this four-year contract renewal will offer subject matter expert (SME) support across combat system acquisition and integration for Type 26 and Type 31 new build Frigate ship programmes. Since 2014, the Warship Combat System Support Service (WC3S), in collaboration with Aurora EDP, has been involved in this ship build programmes, which are expected to see Royal Navy entry into service from 2026 onwards.
Aurora EDP’s responsibilities include sourcing combat systems-related Government Furnished Information (GFI) and facilitating the delivery of combat systems Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) to Ports down Technology Park. This effort aims to de-risk the integration of combat systems equipment and support in-service capability growth by ensuring compliance with environmental, legal, and shock specifications.
The contract’s benefits for the customer include flexibility for rapid re-prioritization of outputs, reduced costs through opportunity mapping across the warship programmes, and the sustained allocation of skilled personnel to manage delivery risk effectively. This enterprise approach is crucial as the platforms navigate technical challenges toward acceptance and service entry.
British Tank Track Maker Steps Up to Support Ukraine’s Defence Efforts
Cook Defence Systems, a world-renowned British manufacturer of tank tracks, is playing a crucial role in supporting Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression. Awarded multiple contracts by the UK government, the company is supplying vital spare parts for up to 500 Ukrainian armored vehicles.
This critical support comes as part of the UK’s over £100 million maintenance and maneuver support package announced last year. However, fulfilling these contracts presented unique challenges for Cook Defence. Unlike their usual British and allied vehicles, these Soviet-era models lacked readily available technical specifications.
Undeterred, Cook Defence’s team of experts rose to the occasion, drawing upon their extensive experience and ingenuity. They meticulously reverse-engineered the necessary parts, relying on a combination of museum pieces, Cold War reference documents, and their own expertise.
Despite the challenges, Cook Defence embraced innovative manufacturing techniques to expedite production. This included laser scanning for precise digital models, digital X-ray inspection for quality control, and robotic production for increased efficiency.
The company significantly ramped up its output by reconfiguring production lines and recruiting additional personnel. The entire team displayed exceptional commitment and a strong sense of purpose, driven by the knowledge that their work directly impacts the lives of Ukrainian soldiers on the frontlines.
Maj Gen Anna-Lee Reilly, Director of the Operations Directorate at DE&S, commends Cook Defence’s efforts, stating that the company exemplifies British manufacturing excellence and their contribution plays a vital role in ensuring the continued operation and effectiveness of Ukrainian armored vehicles.
By showcasing its technical prowess, adaptability, and unwavering commitment, Cook Defence Systems serves as a shining example of British industry stepping up to support a nation in need. Their efforts contribute significantly to Ukraine’s ability to defend itself and its people.