Defence and industry open collaboration hub at RAF Wyton

RAF Wyton, together with industry partners, opened the new FAIRFAX Collaboration Hub on 27th August 2026, marking a significant step in the station’s development as the UK’s centre for intelligence excellence. The opening was celebrated as part of RAF Wyton’s annual Families Day, with around 2,000 families attending the station.

The Hub, a joint programme between Defence Intelligence, Huntingdonshire District Council and four industry partners: CGI, CDS Defence & Security, MAIAR and Vantor, forms part of Project FAIRFAX. Located within RAF Wyton’s secure perimeter, it gives the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) and its partners a dedicated space to jointly drive innovation, run a development lab and deliver outreach and STEM activities.

Why collaboration is essential in addressing the complexities of defence intelligence

Air Vice-Marshal Adam Bone, Director Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance said: “The threats facing this country are growing more complex by the day. Defence Intelligence’s partnership with industry and academia at Wyton is about staying ahead of those who wish us harm, giving our people the tools and insight they need to keep the UK safe.

“This Hub is the first tangible step towards an intelligence ecosystem that will strengthen our ability to protect the public and defend the nation’s interests for years to come.”

Wyton has been chosen for significant defence investment over the next five to seven years, with the Collaboration Hub marking the first step in a wider plan to build an intelligence ecosystem radiating out from the station, deepening ties between Defence, industry and academia, Project FAIRFAX.

Defence Intelligence sits within Cyber and Specialist Operations Command and provides the analysis and assessment that supports UK defence decision-making, using geospatial and open-source intelligence to help commanders, policymakers and allies. RAF Wyton has long played a central role in this work, home to the National Centre for Geospatial Intelligence and other Defence Intelligence capabilities. This makes Wyton a natural home for the new Collaboration Hub, building on decades of investment in the station’s intelligence capability.

Delivering for UK Defence whilst driving regional growth

Wing Commander John Grenville, Station Commander of RAF Wyton said: “The launch of the FAIRFAX Collaboration hub is a huge milestone for both Project FAIRFAX and Wyton. Not only is the hub the first building of Wyton Campus but more importantly it illustrates the strength of the growing relationship forged between Defence, Huntingdonshire District Council and our key industrial partners. FAIRFAX strengthens our ability to deliver for UK Defence while also bringing real value to the local community. I am confident that under FAIRFAX, Wyton will retain its crown as a centre of intelligence excellence but will also offer really exciting opportunities for local people and drive growth in the region.”

Project FAIRFAX delivers on direction set out in the Strategic Defence Review, allowing Defence to act as an engine for growth in the east of England. Working with industry and local authorities, Defence is shifting the relationship from client and supplier to genuine partnership.

Richard Bradley, Managing Director of CDS Defence & Security, said: “The FAIRFAX Collaboration Hub marks a real shift from a client and supplier relationship to a genuine partnership with Defence, where we work alongside our valued partners at Wyton to solve problems together. Sharing a dedicated space inside the wire means ideas move from conversation to capability far more quickly.”

Plans for building infrastructure and supporting skills development

Plans for Wyton’s legacy airfield include redeveloping the site to deliver a science and technology park that brings industry even closer to Wyton. The Collaboration Hub is the first step in this journey.

Paul March, CGI Vice President Consulting Services, said: “CGI are pleased to support project FAIRFAX.  We have a longstanding relationship with Defence at RAF Wyton and our people working there are part of the local community. The vision for FAIRFAX aligns perfectly with CGI’s goals to accelerate innovation, strengthen STEM outreach within communities and support the skills Defence will need for the future. We see this as a long-term commitment to Wyton and the wider Huntingdonshire community and we look forward to helping to make the FAIRFAX Collaboration Hub a success for all.”

The partnership’s commitment to Wyton extends to its people as well as its infrastructure. MAIAR, CGI, CDS and Vantor sponsored this year’s Families Day, recognising the contribution of Wyton’s workforce throughout the year. Over the next 12 months, all four companies will also support Wyton’s new outreach programme, working with local schools and academic institutions to help develop the next generation of Wyton’s workforce.

MoD Police demo drone capabilities alongside RAF Intelligence Reserves

The arrival of the first rain in many weeks on this year’s Families Day at RAF Wyton prevented the planned air displays but the MoD Police drones did take to the skies, putting on a display to demonstrate their capabilities. On the ground, families enjoyed a range of entertainment, including a climbing wall and an inflatable assault course, alongside static displays and stalls from local charities, clubs and community groups and food and drink vendors.

Wyton’s mission remained central throughout the celebrations. Displays from 1 ISR Wing, RAF Intelligence Reserves and local emergency service partners showed the breadth of expertise based at the station and its ongoing role in national security