Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Defence
  • /
  • Cranfield University continues collaboration with HMGCC

Defence Security

Cranfield University continues collaboration with HMGCC

Cranfield University is continuing to help address national security engineering challenges through an ongoing collaboration with HMGCC (His Majesty’s Government Communications Centre) and its Co-Creation initiative: a partnership with Dstl (Defence Science and Technology Laboratory).

Image courtesy Cranfield University

HMGCC Co-Creation has been created to deliver a new and innovative way of working with the wider UK science and technology community on challenges in support of the national security community. Co-Creation brings together industry, academia and government, to work collaboratively on national security engineering challenges and accelerate innovation. 

Advertisement
ODU RT

Since 2022, Cranfield University has worked closely with HMGCC Co-Creation in a specialist role as a Commercial Collaborator to develop and deliver a comprehensive commercial architecture, establishing a contracting framework designed to minimise the barriers of engagement within the Co-Creation environment forging an effective route to market. Building on this foundation, Cranfield has recently been awarded a new two-year contract to maintain and enhance these services, reaffirming its commitment to enabling rapid and effective collaboration across the national security ecosystem. 

The agile commercial framework ensures accessibility across a diverse ecosystem of industry, academic and technology organisations beyond HMGCC’s traditional supplier base and enables rapid delivery on unique and complex operational technology challenges. 

Chris Buckland, Security & Commercial Director, said: “Cranfield’s long-standing experience in defence and security industry engagement and in working with the UK government means we can add real value to this initiative.

Advertisement
ODU RT

“The complex and fast-moving nature of technology and engineering challenges demands rapid and creative solutions that are high-quality, compliant and good value. With our trusted position in the defence and security community, Cranfield is proud to be part of enabling those creative solutions.” 

James, Head of HMGCC Co-Creation said: “We're pleased to be continuing our relationship with Cranfield University which has enabled HMGCC Co-Creation to engage with solutions providers of all sizes from industry and academia. Cranfield’s close working relationship with our team has supported the adoption of novel technologies to meet a diverse set of national security mission needs, ultimately helping to keep the country safe.”

Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner
SEA to provide OSHEN with acoustic underwater monitoring capability

Defence

SEA to provide OSHEN with acoustic underwater monitoring capability

10 April 2026

SEA, part of Cohort plc Group, is supporting marine autonomy specialist OSHEN on a ZeroUSV-led project, which is exploring the deployment and development of an autonomous underwater acoustic sensing network to enhance communications with subsurface assets.

Cambridge Aerospace to deliver Skyhammer air defence systems to UK MOD

Defence

Cambridge Aerospace to deliver Skyhammer air defence systems to UK MOD

10 April 2026

In a speech by Secretary of State for Defence John Healey, the Ministry of Defence has today announced that it is purchasing a significant number of Skyhammer air defence systems from UK-headquartered scale-up Cambridge Aerospace, with deliveries starting from May. The company has committed to delivering these units to the MOD in the next six months.

BMT partners with BAE Systems on Anzac Class Designer Support Contract

Defence

BMT partners with BAE Systems on Anzac Class Designer Support Contract

9 April 2026

BMT has announced it will be engaging with BAE Systems Australia, the prime contractor for the Design Support Contract (DSC) supporting the Royal Australian Navy’s Anzac class frigates.

HENSOLDT UK secures two contracts with SRT for 50 coastal surveillance radars

Defence

HENSOLDT UK secures two contracts with SRT for 50 coastal surveillance radars

9 April 2026

Orders will deliver enhanced coastal monitoring capability using SharpEye radar technology.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Babcock awarded LAFT contract extension

Defence

Babcock awarded LAFT contract extension

8 April 2026

Babcock International Group has been awarded a four year extension to its Light Aircraft Flying Task (LAFT) contract, continuing its delivery of essential military flying training to the Royal Air Force (RAF).

Vietnam Helicopter Corporation bolsters offshore operations with Airbus

Defence

Vietnam Helicopter Corporation bolsters offshore operations with Airbus

8 April 2026

The Vietnam Helicopter Corporation (VNH)’s subsidiaries, Southern Vietnam Helicopter Company (VNH South) and Northern Vietnam Helicopter Company (VNH North), have placed an order for three Airbus H225 helicopters, to support the continued expansion of its offshore energy operations, and progressively replace ageing aircraft in its fleet.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner