Calian appoints new regional VP of Defence for Europe, UK and NATO

Calian Group Ltd. has announced the appointment of Major-General (Ret.) Roch Pelletier to the role of Regional Vice President (RVP) Global Defence & Security.

Image courtesy Calian

This newly created role addresses the growth of Calian’s defence business, driven by increased global military spending, geopolitical instability and the rising demand for advanced technologies.

This appointment will advance Calian’s strategic business development, strengthen relationships with stakeholders, and provide operational support to drive growth and efficiencies within the region.

In his 36 years of service with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), Major-General Pelletier (above) held senior command roles, including Commander of the Canadian Army Doctrine and Training Centre (CADTC) and the 5th Canadian Division. He also served as Director General of Intelligence, Operations and Plans for the Canadian Joint Operations Command. During his military tenure he gained extensive expertise in national defence strategy, operational planning and international collaboration and has demonstrated an ability to navigate complex and challenging environments and deliver results.

“Major-General Pelletier’s role underscores our commitment to growing our European and UK footprint and strengthening our support for NATO customers with mission-critical solutions,” said Kevin Ford, Calian CEO. “His record of leadership, deep understanding of defence and global security challenges will be instrumental in advancing our mission and delivering future-proof solutions as we expand our services throughout Europe and the UK.”

In the RVP role, Major-General Pelletier will expand and strengthen international collaborations in support of advancing Calian’s IT, cybersecurity and advanced training capabilities, addressing the growing demand for scalable solutions that enhance operational readiness and resilience in defence. This aligns with global priorities on defence modernisation and collaboration across NATO allies to safeguard critical assets.

Related

RAF Chinooks deploy aboard Queen Elizabeth for maritime training drill
An RAF-operated Chinook HC6A (serial ZH896) lifts off from the flight deck of HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) during Exercise Hathi Pol on 20 October 2026. Image: MOD Crown Copyright/Royal Air Force
RAF Chinooks deploy aboard Queen Elizabeth for maritime training drill
RAF Chinooks have embarked aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth, testing the UK’s heavy-lift tactical transport capabilities in a maritime environment during Exercise Hathi Pol.
Aerospace Defence

3 Nov 2026

QinetiQ to support Government’s tech talent drive
TechFirst
QinetiQ to support Government’s tech talent drive
By providing work experience opportunities and technology programmes, including cyber security, QinetiQ is supporting the UK Government TechFirst initiative, aimed at delivering practical skills and career support for young people.
MOD seeks industry input on next-generation medical evacuation system
Imagery of the Atlas A400M, seen here operated by crews of LXX & 30 Squadron overseen by an XXIV Squadron instructor, carrying on beach landings over on Pembrey Sands. This was facilitated by Tactical Air Traffic Controllers and Tactical Fire who ensure the beach and activity is completed as intended. Along with conducting touch and go's alongside full stop landings, the aicraft also despatched a pair of RWMIK's driven by 16 Air Assault Brigade as part of an Engine Running Operation or ERO.
MOD seeks industry input on next-generation medical evacuation system
The MOD is looking to modernise the specialist systems used to transport patients with dangerous infectious diseases back to the UK.
Aerospace Defence

2 Nov 2026

RAF Chinooks deploy aboard Queen Elizabeth for maritime training drill
An RAF-operated Chinook HC6A (serial ZH896) lifts off from the flight deck of HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) during Exercise Hathi Pol on 20 October 2026. Image: MOD Crown Copyright/Royal Air Force
RAF Chinooks deploy aboard Queen Elizabeth for maritime training drill
RAF Chinooks have embarked aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth, testing the UK’s heavy-lift tactical transport capabilities in a maritime environment during Exercise Hathi Pol.
Aerospace Defence

3 Nov 2026

NCSC says AI-powered attack on UK critical infrastructure likely by 2028
Futuristic Hand Reaching for AI Technology Interface Representing Artificial Intelligence and Data Management in a Digital World. Glyphic
NCSC says AI-powered attack on UK critical infrastructure likely by 2028
The NCSC warns the UK could face AI-powered cyber attacks on critical national infrastructure by 2028, prompting fresh warnings over national security and defence.
Defence Security

3 Nov 2026

Royal Navy tracks Russian warships in UK waters as RAF Protector makes operational debut
The Russian Vishnya-class intelligence-gathering vessel, Viktor Leonov (CCB-175), is shadowed by a Royal Navy-operated Merlin HM2 helicopter off the Outer Hebrides on 29 September 2026. Image: MOD Crown Copyright/Royal Navy
Royal Navy tracks Russian warships in UK waters as RAF Protector makes operational debut
Royal Navy warships and aircraft recently monitored Russian naval movements around Britain, with support from RAF Protector RG1 drones, which marked the type’s operational debut in UK airspace.
Defence Security

3 Nov 2026

QinetiQ to support Government’s tech talent drive
TechFirst
QinetiQ to support Government’s tech talent drive
By providing work experience opportunities and technology programmes, including cyber security, QinetiQ is supporting the UK Government TechFirst initiative, aimed at delivering practical skills and career support for young people.
Space cybersecurity starts on the ground: The hidden risks in satellite supply chains
headshot for Benny Czarny Opswat CEO
Space cybersecurity starts on the ground: The hidden risks in satellite supply chains
Compromised suppliers, unchecked files and insecure updates can threaten satellites before they reach orbit. OPSWAT founder and CEO Benny Czarny explains why prevention must start on the ground
Insights Security Space

31 Oct 2026

Plextek receives King’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation
King’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation from His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester.
Plextek receives King’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation
HRH The Duke of Gloucester has presented Plextek with the King’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation for its PLX-T60 sensing platform.
NCSC says AI-powered attack on UK critical infrastructure likely by 2028
Futuristic Hand Reaching for AI Technology Interface Representing Artificial Intelligence and Data Management in a Digital World. Glyphic
NCSC says AI-powered attack on UK critical infrastructure likely by 2028
The NCSC warns the UK could face AI-powered cyber attacks on critical national infrastructure by 2028, prompting fresh warnings over national security and defence.
Defence Security

3 Nov 2026

Royal Navy tracks Russian warships in UK waters as RAF Protector makes operational debut
The Russian Vishnya-class intelligence-gathering vessel, Viktor Leonov (CCB-175), is shadowed by a Royal Navy-operated Merlin HM2 helicopter off the Outer Hebrides on 29 September 2026. Image: MOD Crown Copyright/Royal Navy
Royal Navy tracks Russian warships in UK waters as RAF Protector makes operational debut
Royal Navy warships and aircraft recently monitored Russian naval movements around Britain, with support from RAF Protector RG1 drones, which marked the type’s operational debut in UK airspace.
Defence Security

3 Nov 2026

QinetiQ to support Government’s tech talent drive
TechFirst
QinetiQ to support Government’s tech talent drive
By providing work experience opportunities and technology programmes, including cyber security, QinetiQ is supporting the UK Government TechFirst initiative, aimed at delivering practical skills and career support for young people.