Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Aerospace
  • /
  • Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visits Cranfield University

Aerospace Events

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visits Cranfield University

The Prime Minister, The Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP, visited Cranfield University yesterday, to see its world-leading specialist facilities and research and to meet with students at the Bedfordshire campus.

Above: Professor Dame Helen Atkinson DBE FREng and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Courtesy Cranfield University

Rishi Sunak met a number of students from the University who are studying courses in robotics and aerospace engineering. He toured the Aerospace Integration Research Centre, a £35 million collaborative centre of excellence which integrates advanced technologies, reducing the time from academic innovation to industrial application.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle

The Prime Minister was able to see the University’s close links to industry as infrastructure and collaborative projects with Rolls-Royce and Airbus were on show. He also experienced Cranfield’s leading work in robotics and automation with a hands-on demonstration of the latest technologies.

Professor Dame Helen Atkinson DBE FREng, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the School of Aerospace, Transport and Manufacturing and Materials, hosted the Prime Minister and said: “I felt extremely proud to show the Prime Minister the groundbreaking research and industry collaborations that set Cranfield apart. Our wonderful students were so engaging and spoke to him about their motivations for study and how their experiences at Cranfield will take them forwards in their careers.”

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle

Cranfield’s expertise and facilities attract students from around the globe. Sam Deddis, a PhD student in Thermal Power, met the Prime Minister and said: “It was a privilege to meet the Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak and showcase the exciting work we are conducting to pave the way for aviation’s future.”

 

Advertisement
ECS leaderboard banner
Acron Aviation signs A320 pilot training contract with Royal Brunei Airlines

Aerospace

Acron Aviation signs A320 pilot training contract with Royal Brunei Airlines

6 February 2026

Acron Aviation have signed a new multiyear contract with Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) to provide Airbus A320 full flight simulator (FFS) training at its Bangkok Training Centre (BTC), further strengthening Acron Aviation’s position as a leading global provider of pilot training solutions.

Hexagon introduces Hyperscan

Aerospace Defence

Hexagon introduces Hyperscan

6 February 2026

Hexagon has introduced Hyperscan, a portable and robust 3D scanning solution designed to deliver outstanding performance in complex industrial environments.

Westwire opens new Swindon facility

Aerospace Defence

Westwire opens new Swindon facility

6 February 2026

Westwire Harnessing, has opened its second UK manufacturing facility in Swindon.

BAE Systems launches Launchpad incubator

Aerospace Defence

BAE Systems launches Launchpad incubator

6 February 2026

BAE Systems has launched Launchpad, a new technology incubator programme designed to take dual-use technologies beyond the defence sector and help cutting-edge innovations reach their full commercial potential.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Birmingham Airport aims to secure direct connection to New York

Aerospace

Birmingham Airport aims to secure direct connection to New York

6 February 2026

Birmingham Airport (BHX) has announced a targeted, financial support package on offer to airlines that looks to attract direct connectivity between BHX and New York, reinforcing the airport’s commitment to the growth of long haul into global markets.

ITSA sees UK connector sales rise in 2025

Aerospace Defence Security Space

ITSA sees UK connector sales rise in 2025

5 February 2026

The Interconnect Technology Suppliers Association (ITSA) has revealed its members reported sales in 2025 were up by 5% over 2024 but that orders and business to business sales, were flat.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle
Advertisement
Babcock LB Babcock LB