Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Defence
  • /
  • Dstl’s Dr Norman Govan receives OBE

Defence

Dstl’s Dr Norman Govan receives OBE

Dr Norman Govan, of the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), has been recognised in Her Majesty The Queen’s New Year Honours 2020.

Above: Dstl’s Dr Norman Govan.
Courtesy Dstl

Dr Govan, who has worked at Dstl and its predecessors for more than 20 years, has been made an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE). He receives his OBE for his many years of expertise in the decontamination of chemical weapons, including the development of methodologies and specialist skills to safely and effectively manage the hazards arising from these agents. His contribution was vital in the recovery process following the Salisbury and Amesbury incidents in 2018.

Advertisement
ODU RT

Dr Govan, who is a fellow – a technical expert – within the Chemical Biological and Radiological Division at Dstl said: “I am truly humbled by this award. I was immensely proud of what the recovery team achieved getting Salisbury and Amesbury back to normal. I had the privilege to work alongside some really incredible people during the operation and I am delighted to accept this on their behalf.”

Gary Aitkenhead, Chief Executive at Dstl added: “I offer my sincere congratulations to Dr Govan. It gives me great pride to see our people recognised in this prestigious way. The award is a deserved recognition of his dedication, professionalism and technical excellence.”

Advertisement
ODU RT

 

Advertisement
General Atomics LB
New training targets installed at Holbeach

Defence

New training targets installed at Holbeach

18 June 2026

Two new repurposed marine vessel targets have been successfully delivered and installed at Holbeach Air Weapons Range (AWR), to enhance Defence training.

Serco and StaplesVR partner on immersive training for NZDF

Defence

Serco and StaplesVR partner on immersive training for NZDF

18 June 2026

Serco New Zealand recently formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with StaplesVR, bringing together immersive technology and operational training expertise to support the future training capabilities of the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF).

BAE Systems awarded US Army M109A7 Paladin contract

Defence

BAE Systems awarded US Army M109A7 Paladin contract

17 June 2026

BAE Systems has received a contract award valued at $535 million to produce additional M109A7 Paladin Self-Propelled Howitzers and M992A3 Ammunition Carriers for the US Army.

QinetiQ joins UK Quantum Growth Alliance

Defence Security

QinetiQ joins UK Quantum Growth Alliance

17 June 2026

QinetiQ has been invited to join the UK Quantum Growth Alliance, a new government–industry partnership bringing together senior representatives from leading British companies to accelerate the adoption of quantum technologies across the UK.

Advertisement
ODU RT
IDV showcases latest UGV innovations at Eurosatory 2026

Defence Events

IDV showcases latest UGV innovations at Eurosatory 2026

17 June 2026

At Eurosatory 2026 in Paris this week, IDV has been showcasing its latest innovations in uncrewed ground vehicle platforms, alongside a simulation of uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs) integration into battlefield command and control centres.

Wall Colmonoy launches advanced VPIC facility in South Wales

Aerospace Defence

Wall Colmonoy launches advanced VPIC facility in South Wales

17 June 2026

Wall Colmonoy Ltd has officially launched a £2.5 million Vacuum Precision Investment Casting (VPIC) facility in South Wales, contributing to the advancement of the UK’s aerospace and defence manufacturing capability.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner