Ministry of Defence publishes new Science & Technology portfolio
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has commissioned its Science & Technology agenda, which is backed by £2 billion of investment and includes a new satellite launch. Aimed at driving forward cutting-edge research and developing new Defence capabilities, the Science & Technology Portfolio outlines a series of ambitious programmes, encouraging industry collaboration and input to meet future Defence needs.
Building on previous projects including testing autonomous systems and developing state-of-the-art capabilities for F-35 fighter jets, the MOD will work with the best of British industry and academia to develop new and exciting defence technology.
£2 billion will be invested between now and 2026 to develop programmes which underpin the development of the generation-after-next of military capabilities. Key elements of the future-facing portfolio include:
- Plans to develop a new weapon demonstrator capable of operating up to hypersonic speeds to better equip the Armed Forces against future threats.
- Expanded research into AI technologies, better understanding how they can benefit service personnel on the front line.
- Investment to build Defence capabilities in space, improving intelligence, communication, and surveillance.
The £2 billion outlined is part of the £6.6 billion investment into research and development following the £24 billion increase in the Defence budget announced in the 2021 Defence Command Paper. Designed to meet the MOD’s capability needs, the Science & Technology portfolio will ensure the UK Armed Forces have access to the newest and most cutting-edge technology.
Dstl Chief Executive Dr Paul Hollinshead said:
Dstl’s world-class scientists are committed to delivering the best scientific advice and technological solutions, giving the armed forces operational advantage, the edge in decision making, and saving lives.
The new portfolio will see defence enhancing its hypersonic research programme alongside significant science and technology investment in AI, cyber, electromagnet activities, novel sensors, advanced materials, space and support to the nuclear deterrent.
Fred Sugden
Fred Sugden
Fred is responsible for techUK's activities across the Defence and National Security sectors, working to provide members with access to key stakeholders across the Defence and National Security community. Before taking on the role of Associate Director for Defence and National Security, Fred joined techUK in 2018, working as the Programme Head for Defence at techUK, leading the organisation's engagement with the Ministry of Defence. Before joining techUK, he worked at ADS, the national trade association representing Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space companies in the UK.
Fred is responsible for techUK’s market engagement and policy development activities across the Defence and National Security sectors, working closely with various organisations within the Ministry of Defence, and across the wider National Security and Intelligence community. Fred works closely with many techUK member companies that have an interest in these sectors, and is responsible for the activities of techUK's senior Defence & Security Board. Working closely with techUK's Programme Head for Cyber Security, Fred oversees a broad range of activities for techUK members.
Outside of work, Fred's interests include football (a Watford FC fan) and skiing.
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