http://www.adsadvance.co.uk ADS Advance is an exciting new magazine for the fastest growing aerospace market in the world. ADS Advance Online is a dedicated web news service for professionals needing daily regional news. en-gb http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/cambridge-aerospace-to-deliver-skyhammer-air-defence-systems-to-uk-mod.html 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. Image courtesy Cambridge Aerospace  Founded in late 2024, the company creates advanced air defence systems at a fraction of the cost of traditional systems. Their first product Skyhammer has a range of over 30 km with a top speed of 700 km/h, positioning it for intercepting a range of threats including Shahed-style drones and low-speed missiles such as those being seen across the Middle East.   The company started the development of Skyhammer in January 2025 and was into initial flight testing within six weeks. Since then, the product has undergone consistent, iterative testing taking place on a weekly basis to ensure it is able to counter a range of threats and integrate with a wide range of sensors to provide a rapidly deployable layered air defence system.   Recent testing delivered consistent successful interceptions of Shahed-style drones in a variety of conditions, with the autonomous platforms identifying, tracking and intercepting the target.   The company’s rapid scaling means they now employ over 125 people in highly skilled jobs, across the UK, with a growing presence across Europe. The company is also scaling its manufacturing capacity at speed with a second production facility currently undergoing final fit out to ensure that the product is delivered at the pace required to defend the UK and our allies.   Defence Secretary John Healey MP said: “We are applying the approach for UK support to Ukraine and accelerating contracts with the most innovative British businesses to rapidly expand support to Gulf partners and equip our own forces with anti-drone tech.   “Our government backing for Cambridge Aerospace is a prime case of a veteran-founded UK defence start-up scaling at pace to deliver new interceptor missiles within weeks for our Armed Forced and Gulf partners, and good jobs and security here in the UK.”   Steven Barrett, CEO of Cambridge Aerospace said: “With aerial threats to the UK and our allies increasing by the day, it is critical that we can defend ourselves effectively. Skyhammer was designed to do exactly that – bringing affordable mass to protect our skies. We welcome the Government’s commitment to supporting UK air defence with scalable, sovereign solutions.”   defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30777.jpg Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/sea-to-provide-oshen-with-acoustic-underwater-monitoring-capability.html 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. Image courtesy SEA The project is led by USV specialists - ZeroUSV, with OSHEN, MarineAI and MSubs as project partners, and supported by UK Defence Innovation (previously DASA) and the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl).  As part of the collaboration, SEA will provide hydrophones for use on OSHEN’s C-STARS uncrewed surface system to provide low-power acoustic listening capability. The project will see OSHEN deploy its rugged sail-powered C-STARS micro-drones from Zero USV’s Oceanus12 uncrewed surface vessel to act as a distributed acoustic network, monitoring for communication signals from underwater assets.    SEA’s hydrophones will provide the acoustic sensing capability, with the technology already deployed in various applications including maritime intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations. SEA’s collaboration with OSHEN for the DASA programme reflects growing international demand for scalable acoustic and monitoring capabilities, that can be deployed from both crewed and uncrewed platforms.     It also builds on SEA’s wider contribution to UK and international wide-area ASW and ISR programmes and operations, where its sensing and processing technologies – such as KraitSense - deliver underwater surveillance capabilities across complex operational environments.    Guy Hope, Business Development Executive at SEA said, “Autonomous systems are reshaping how navies think about surveillance, anti-submarine warfare and communications. By integrating SEA hydrophones into OSHEN’s C-STARS platforms, this exciting project aims to demonstrate a novel approach to the deployment of scalable, affordable, low-signature sensor and communication networks.”       Operations for the DASA project are centred at Turnchapel Wharf in Plymouth, where OSHEN and ZeroUSV are based, and is a tech cluster for  marine autonomy in the Southwest, with Plymouth having been named as the National Centre for Marine Autonomy. SEA will support the programme from its recently upgraded and expanded manufacturing facility in Barnstaple, North Devon, strengthening collaboration across the South West’s maritime technology sector.    Anahita Laverack, CEO at OSHEN said, “To deliver wide-area monitoring, robust and reliable performance is key. C-STARS was designed for long-endurance missions in extreme operating environments. By integrating SEA’s proven acoustic sensors on to the platform, we can enhance underwater situational awareness in a scalable and cost-effective way.”  The programme forms part of wider UK efforts to explore distributed and autonomous approaches to surface and subsea surveillance and maritime security.    For more information, please visit: www.sea.co.uk/ defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30778.jpg Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/north-east-s-landmark-space-centre-reaches-major-construction-milestone.html Topping out ceremony marks pivotal moment for centre backed by £50 million investment set to transform the region's space economy. Image courtesy Northumbria University    A landmark moment in the development of Northumbria University’s North East Space Skills and Technology Centre (NESST) has been celebrated as the facility reached a major construction milestone with a traditional topping out ceremony in Newcastle.   Attended by leaders from academia, industry, government, civic and construction partners, the ceremony marked the point at which the building reached its full height – a significant milestone in the delivery of a centre that will play a key role in training the UK's future space workforce.   NESST is a strategic collaboration between Northumbria University, the UK Space Agency and Lockheed Martin, backed by £50 million of investment spanning the facility itself and the initial research programmes it will house.    It will provide state-of-the-art research facilities, satellite testing capabilities and dedicated skills programmes designed to develop the next generation of space professionals. When open, it is expected to become one of the most significant space education and research facilities in the UK, supporting government ambitions around the nation’s space priorities over the coming years.   The ceremony, which was led by main contractor Sir Robert McAlpine, was held on the 6th floor of the building, with guests welcomed by the Master of Ceremonies and accompanied by a traditional piper. As part of the topping out ritual, Professor John Woodward, Pro Vice-Chancellor of International and Faculty of Science and Environment at Northumbria University, and Gary Tidyman, Works Manager at Sir Robert McAlpine, poured the final concrete before nailing the evergreen bough to the structure, a symbolic gesture of good fortune.    Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Andy Long, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive at Northumbria University, said: “The topping out of NESST is a major milestone for Northumbria, for our partners at the UK Space Agency and Lockheed Martin Space, and for the North East. NESST really embodies everything about the University’s strategy. It enables high quality research, which will have an impact on the North East and wider. It enables us to establish new taught programmes, which give opportunities to students from our region and lead to great jobs in the space sector. And it will inspire young people in the region, so that more of them will go on to further and higher education, helping us with our ambitions around driving social mobility.”   The North East is home to a growing cluster of space sector activity, the region's established industrial heritage, research excellence and emerging skills infrastructure. NESST builds on this foundation, with research capabilities spanning satellite technology, space medicine and mission-critical systems.   The centre is the latest recognition of the North East's strategic importance to the UK space economy. Earlier this year, NESST was named sixth in its category in the inaugural fDi Intelligence Investment Impact Awards, ranking among the most transformative foreign direct investment projects in Europe.   Robert Lightfoot, President of Lockheed Martin Space, talked about creating a hub for innovation and inspiration for the UK, in the UK: “When we first announced our intent to support NESST, our goal was clear: to create a permanent pipeline of talent, innovation and applied research right here in the UK. Today, that vision is taking shape. NESST is just one part of Lockheed Martin Space's planned investment in this area – we also have plans for a space manufacturing facility at NETPark in County Durham. By joining these ecosystems together, the North East can become an exporter of space technology long-term, continuing the proud legacy of innovation from this region."   The ceremony concluded with the exchange of engraved tankards and a celebratory toast, honouring the teams who brought NESST to this milestone.    Mark Gardham, Sector Director at Sir Robert McAlpine, said: "NESST is a project of remarkable ambition, and reaching this milestone is a testament to professionalism, teamwork and collaboration at every level. When NESST opens later this year, it will be a national space asset. It is an honour to play our part in shaping a facility that will have a lasting impact on this region and on the UK's place in the global space sector."   NESST is expected to open in late 2026. For more information about NESST please visit: www.northumbria.ac.uk/nesst   space http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30773.jpg Thu, 9 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/hensoldt-uk-secures-two-contracts-with-srt-for-50-coastal-surveillance-radars.html Orders will deliver enhanced coastal monitoring capability using SharpEye radar technology. Image courtesy HENSOLDT UK  Sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT UK has secured two contracts with SRT Marine System Solutions Ltd (SRT), a UK-based civil-defence maritime surveillance systems company, to supply a total of 50 radar systems for deployment within integrated national coastal surveillance systems. The systems will be delivered by SRT, with all deliveries scheduled for 2026.   The radars will support enhanced monitoring and situational awareness across coastal environments, enabling authorities to detect, track and manage maritime activity effectively.   The systems are based on HENSOLDT UK’s advanced Coherent Shore-Based Sensor solution, developed specifically for coastal surveillance. Designed to meet the demanding operational requirements of maritime security and government agencies, the solution delivers reliable performance in complex and dynamic coastal conditions.   At the core of the system is HENSOLDT’s SharpEye transceiver technology, delivering high-performance surveillance capability. Its integrated upmast solid-state design ensures consistent performance, high reliability and reduced installation and maintenance requirements.    Adrian Pilbeam, Managing Director of HENSOLDT UK, said: “These contracts with SRT reflect the strength of our coastal surveillance offering and the confidence placed in our technology. We are focused on delivering dependable radar systems that provide operators with the clarity and reliability they need to manage maritime activity safely and effectively.”   Simon Tucker, CEO of SRT, said: “SRT integrated MDA system deployments are rapidly expanding and accelerating worldwide as sovereigns seek to establish and build up independent next-generation maritime surveillance capabilities. We are constantly seeking the best ISR systems from reliable providers for our systems, and this order demonstrates our confidence in HENSOLDT and its radars, which will both deliver excellent performance. We look forward to further developing this relationship in the years ahead.”   The contracts reinforce HENSOLDT UK’s position as a trusted provider of shore-based radar solutions, supporting maritime safety, security and environmental monitoring.   defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30774.jpg Thu, 9 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/bmt-partners-with-bae-systems-on-anzac-class-designer-support-contract.html 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. Image courtesy BAE Systems Australia    The relationship reflects a deliberate alignment between two organisations with shared strategic intent and complementary capability, supporting the Navy’s sustainment objectives through disciplined engineering and mature industry collaboration.   BMT’s Defence strategy is anchored in three core service tenets: ship design, systems assurance, and autonomy. These capabilities underpin more than 30 years of continuous involvement with the Anzac class, spanning original design authority, major upgrades, and in-service support, and extend across a broader Australian naval portfolio – including patrol boats, Collins class submarines, Guided Missile Destroyer (DDG) ships, Hunter-class frigates, amphibious platforms such as Landing Ship Dock (LSD)  and Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD), support for RAN fleet communications via the Maritime Warfighter Network with Boeing and innovative ship design  like the scalable CAIMEN family of landing craft to enhance littoral amphibious operations.   “We thank BAE Systems Australia for recognising the depth of BMT’s naval engineering capability and for the mature, best-for-customer approach they have brought to this programme,” said Graeme Nayler, Regional Business Director, Asia-Pacific, BMT.   “Their willingness to align complementary capabilities and focus on what delivers the strongest outcome for the Navy is exactly what an effective industry collaboration should look like, aligning with Australia’s Defence Strategy priorities for assured, resilient sovereign capability across platforms from submarines to amphibious operations.”   The Designer Support Contract reinforces BMT’s approach to aligning with primes and shipbuilders that value technical discipline, clear accountability, and complementary roles.   BMT’s Australian naval capability has been further strengthened through the 2024 acquisition of Australian Maritime Technologies (AMT), expanding specialist expertise in Anzac class upgrades for both the Australian and New Zealand navies.   Through sustained investment in ship design, systems assurance, and autonomy, and by aligning with like-minded industry partners, BMT continues to elevate its contribution to Australia’s naval enterprise, focused on delivery, resilience, and outcomes.   defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30775.jpg Thu, 9 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/first-cohort-of-apprentices-graduates-from-airport-management-course.html A group of 11 apprentices have become the first to graduate from an in-depth, two-year course run in partnership by Manchester Airport and Trafford and Stockport College Group (TSCG). Image courtesy MAG    The Level 3 Aviation Ground Specialist course, which was welcomed by Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham when it was launched in 2023, is unique in giving students experience of all the elements of an airport operation. It was broken down into four separate work placements in different roles across the airport with supervision and mentoring from experienced aviation professionals. This included everything from terminal operations to airfield safety, ground handling and runway management.   Each placement was supplemented by in-person learning at TSCG’s Altrincham Campus, where apprentices studied the operational models of airports across the globe, the development of airport operations best practice and how the aviation industry is evolving and adapting to new technology. Apprentices also had the opportunity to review and discuss their placements and practice interview technique.   Places on the course were promoted to local school sixth forms and colleges, as part of the airport’s commitment to providing opportunities to those living nearby. Its launch formed part of Manchester Airports Group’s (MAG) Developing Talent strategy, to nurture future managers and leaders for the business and the aviation sector more widely. TSCG and Manchester Airport also offer a range of other courses in collaboration, including a Team Leader & Supervisor Apprenticeship for existing airport staff who want to take the next step in their careers.   The launch of the Aviation Ground Specialist programme and Team Leader programme reflect the strength and ambition of the partnership between Trafford & Stockport College Group and Manchester Airport Group.   Delivered through the Manchester Airport Skills Hub, the programmes were developed in close collaboration with MAG to create an industry led talent pipeline that supports the future of aviation in the region.   Learners have benefited from hands on experience during live operations at the airport, developing skills in areas including airside operations, aircraft handling, leadership and how to work safely in an exceptionally fast‑paced environment.   Since 2012, nearly 2,000 learners have progressed into paid employment through joint TSCG and MAG programmes, with over half of those securing roles within weeks of completing their training.   The latest cohort of graduates received their certificates at a ceremony at the Altrincham Campus, where they heard from senior leaders at MAG and TSCG about the opportunities the qualification would present them. A number of graduates also took to the stage to share their own experiences.   Among them was 20-year-old Oscar Pearson Leach from Stockport. Oscar always knew he wanted to work in aviation and had ambitions to become a pilot when he was younger, but was put off by the high cost of gaining a commercial pilot’s license. He had done work experience at the airport and then worked part-time in retail prior to beginning the course. Not only has he now graduated from his apprenticeship, he has also secured a contract with MAG as a Safety and Compliance officer.   Oscar said: “I first saw the course on the airport careers website. I was just looking for something short-term for the summer but saw this and it looked like an ideal way into the aviation industry and an opportunity too good to miss. The course has definitely opened my eyes to other opportunities for careers in the industry that I didn’t even know existed – whether that’s in management, operations, or office based – there are so many career paths that you wouldn’t really see as a passenger using the airport.   “It was great to get so much practical experience on the placements. You’re doing the same things that full time staff are doing – from airfield control to safety audits and compliance-based tasks. We weren’t just extras, we were counted into numbers on the team roster, so you really felt you were bring trusted with those responsibilities.    “The biggest challenge was adapting to a shift pattern, which is not something I’d done before, but it was also a win because it was an insight into the way things really work at an airport. Airports are 24/7 operations, they don’t sleep and a lot of the action goes on at night when planes are on the ground and most people are tucked up in bed!”   21-year-old Luke Helsdon, from Blackburn in Lancashire, graduated alongside Oscar. He had previously studies sports at college and worked as a car mechanic but was attracted to the idea of working at the airport after learning of the course because it would give him the opportunity to explore a career that was different to the paths most of his friends had chosen.    He reflected: “The apprenticeship was really rewarding to be a part of and has helped me secure a fixed term contract in airfield operations. Day to day, I'm out on the airfield, which I really enjoy – driving around, overseeing works there, guiding aircraft on where they need to go and ensuring we stay compliant with safety rules.    “I'm not well versed in computers or course work and I was more used to working with my hands, however with the help of my tutor and managers at MAG I was able to thrive and get through the study elements of the course as well as the practical parts of it.”    Adam Doyle, 24, from Cheadle Hulme, also graduated from the programme and is now Airfield Operations Support Officer. He said: “The airport is a great place to work, it’s always a challenge and it’s so fulfilling to work here. My dream is to go onto become an Aviation Manager and so the apprenticeship and my role now in Airfield Operations is really preparing me for that.   “I wouldn’t be where I am without the apprenticeship. It was great to have hands on experience. My message to students who may want to take up an Apprenticeship is that there’s so much opportunity available to fit your needs.”   Collecting her Team Leader & Supervisor Apprenticeship certificate was 29-year-old Laura Quate from High Peak, who has been at the airport since 2019 and held several positions including Acting Security Team Manager and a supervisory role in Airfield Operations. She is now a Health & Safety Business Partner.    Laura said: “I enjoyed the diversity and range of opportunities you get given in an apprenticeship. The Team Leader and Supervisor Apprenticeship allowed me to build on my skills and grow and I probably wouldn’t have progressed as quickly without it. I’ve only got here through pushing myself out of my comfort zone.    “I don’t think people realise the scope of what we do at the airport, it’s not just cabin crew and pilots. There are so many opportunities here and I would seriously encourage anyone wanting a change in career to consider what is on offer here at the airport.”   Tina Edwards, People Director at Manchester Airport, said: “We are delighted to celebrate the first cohort of apprentices to graduate from this programme and it was great to be able to extend my congratulations to them personally. It was great to hear that so many of them have already secured paid roles at the airport with ourselves or one of our service partners, on the back of completing this qualification and impressing managers on their work placements.   “At Manchester Airport we’re proud to serve the people of Greater Manchester and the North, and that doesn’t just mean by flying people to the places they want to travel to – it also means giving local people the chance to access unique employment opportunities and embark on a rewarding career.”   Tracey Wood, Chief Commercial Officer at Trafford & Stockport College Group, said: “We are incredibly proud of our graduates and everything they have achieved.   “Working in close partnership with Manchester Airport Group, and through a programme co‑designed with MAG and our tutor team, we have created an accessible pathway that gives learners real industry experience and prepares them for successful careers in the aviation sector.   “All tutors completed their Continuing Professional Development onsite with MAG to ensure the curriculum remained current and directly aligned with the industry need.   The dedication and resilience shown by these students is a testament not only to their hard work, but to the strength of our ongoing partnership with MAG and our shared commitment to developing the future aviation workforce.”   aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30776.jpg Thu, 9 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/loganair-appoints-scott-cunningham-as-chief-financial-officer.html Loganair today confirmed that Scott Cunningham will be joining the airline as Chief Financial Officer, bringing over 25 years of finance and leadership experience to the team. Image courtesy Loganair  Scott has played a pivotal role in the growth and transformation of multiple international businesses. He has held senior positions across the Clyde Blowers portfolio, led InterBulk Group plc as CFO through a period of global expansion and acquisitions, and guided Iomart Group plc through strategic growth, multiple acquisitions, and the challenges of both the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2022 energy crisis. A Chartered Accountant and member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland since 1995, Scott brings a strong track record in financial strategy, corporate governance, and business transformation. Scott Cunningham, Loganair’s newly appointed CFO, said: "I am delighted to be joining Loganair as Chief Financial Officer. Throughout my career, I have supported growth and transformation across a variety of businesses. Loganair is unique and plays a critical role in providing vital air-links for communities across the UK and beyond. I’m looking forward to working with Luke and the team and to playing my part in delivering further success for the airline."   Luke Farajallah, CEO of Loganair, commented: “We are very pleased to have secured Scott as our incoming Chief Financial Officer. After an extensive and high-calibre search, we decided that Scott’s extensive experience leading international and private equity-backed businesses would be invaluable as we continue to deliver our strategy.  We’re delighted to welcome him to the executive team, and looking forward to him joining over the summer.”   Loganair will celebrate its 65th anniversary in 2027. Currently the UK’s largest and leading regional airline, with almost 40 aircraft, 1000 employees, and was named the most punctual major airline for UK arrivals and departures in 2025 (January-September) by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), with 81% of its flights arriving and departing on time – significantly above the industry average of 72%. CAA’s analysis covers the 20 airlines carrying the most passengers at UK airports     aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30769.jpg Wed, 8 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/vietnam-helicopter-corporation-bolsters-offshore-operations-with-airbus.html 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. Image Copyright: Southern Vietnam Helicopter Company This latest order reinforces a trusted partnership between VNH and Airbus Helicopters that has spanned more than 40 years, and reflects the Vietnamese operator’s long-term strategy to modernise and strengthen its heavy helicopter capabilities.   “The H225 has proven itself time and again across our offshore missions, delivering the reliability, performance, and safety we expect. As we look ahead, we see the H225 forming the backbone of our future fleet, allowing us to modernise our operations while expanding capacity and mission flexibility,” said Kieu Dang Hung, CEO of VNH.   “We are honoured to continue supporting VNH and its subsidiaries as they strengthen and revitalise their fleet. Their decision to centre future operations around the H225 underscores the aircraft’s exceptional reliability and performance in demanding offshore environments,” said Matthieu Louvot, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “Our enduring partnership with VNH is built on trust and shared commitment to mission success, and we look forward to supporting their growth for many decades to come,” he added.   The new H225s will join VNH’s existing Airbus fleet consisting of Super Puma and H155 helicopters, for deployment across offshore energy transport, utility missions, search and rescue, and broader transport operations.    As the latest addition to the Super Puma family, the H225 is recognised for its high performance in challenging conditions as well as its outstanding range and payload capacity. The aircraft’s state-of-the-art avionics and autopilot systems provide increased safety while reducing pilot workload.   There are more than 360 H225s and H225Ms in service around the world, totaling more than one million flight hours. Military customers include Brazil, France, Hungary, Indonesia, Iraq, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, Singapore, and Thailand.   defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30770.jpg Wed, 8 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/babcock-awarded-laft-contract-extension.html 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). Image courtesy Babcock International Group The extension reinforces Babcock’s long-standing partnership with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) enabling trainee pilots to access safe, reliable and cost-effective training.  Operating seven days a week, the LAFT fleet has flown more than 775,000 hours. It supports the MoD with University Air Squadron flying training, flying experiences for RAF Air Cadets, Army and Royal Navy flying grading and international defence flying training.   Babcock will continue to provide aircraft, engineering support, asset management, air traffic control, fire and rescue and flying instruction at multiple locations across the UK.    Tom Morton, Managing Director of Babcock’s UK Aviation business, said: “This contract extension means the MoD will continue to receive a dependable, high quality flying training service that supports those learning to fly. By maintaining strong aircraft availability and consistent instructional standards, we help create a training environment that builds confidence at every stage.   “Our teams bring deep experience across all aspects of flying training, and that expertise shapes the service we deliver each day. The extension reflects the trust placed in our people and the strength of our relationship with the MoD.”   Group Captain Jake McAllister, Commandant of No. 6 Flying Training School, said: “I am delighted that we have extended the LAFT contract. This four year LAFT extension underscores a proven RAF–Babcock partnership, combining the assurance of an established contract with the flexibility required to meet changing training needs across the whole force. I look forward to continuing with this strong partnership.” defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30772.jpg Wed, 8 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/alexander-battery-technologies-expands-technical-team.html UK battery pack manufacturer Alexander Battery Technologies has appointed five engineers and a project manager as it expands its technical team. Above: (left to right) Sameed Rashid, Alastair Pollitt, Chris Muteham, Andrew Stevenson, Alexander Johnson and Mark Burton. Courtesy Alexander Battery Technologies The company has recruited Mark Burton as Technical Manager, Andrew Stevenson as Senior Test Engineer, Alastair Pollitt as Electronics Test Engineer, Chris Muteham as Senior Project Manager, Alexander Johnson as Senior Mechanical Design Engineer and Sameed Rashid as AI Engineering Apprentice. Mark joins to lead the company’s engineering operations, overseeing the electronics, firmware, mechanical design and testing teams responsible for developing and validating new battery systems. In his role he will also work closely with the production engineering team to ensure battery products move effectively from development through to manufacturing. Strengthening the testing function, Andrew joins with more than 15 years’ experience in electronics testing and manufacturing environments. His background includes roles at Cicor Group and TT Electronics, as well as more than a decade at Tridonic where he developed and commissioned automated manufacturing test systems. He is joined in the test team by Alastair, who brings experience in electronics development, prototyping and software engineering, alongside doctoral research at Newcastle University focused on modelling and verification of complex digital systems. Senior Project Manager Chris will support the delivery of engineering programmes as they progress towards production, helping to maintain oversight, consistency and control across projects. The company has also appointed Alexander as Senior Mechanical Design Engineer. He joins with experience in battery system development from a previous role at Saft following a dual engineering apprenticeship with Rolls-Royce and Hyperdrive Innovation. He will support early-stage battery pack design and mechanical integration. Alongside the experienced hires, the business has recruited Sameed as an AI Engineering Apprentice. Working with the engineering and production teams, he will support the development of tools that analyse production and testing data to identify patterns and improve product performance. Mark Burton, Technical Manager at Alexander Battery Technologies, said: “Expanding the engineering team gives us the depth of expertise needed across development, testing and mechanical design. As the business grows it’s important that we continue strengthening those areas while also investing in the next generation of engineers.” The expanded team will support both battery systems designed in-house and battery packs manufactured for OEM customers. Sameed Rashid said: “Joining the company as an AI engineering apprentice gives me the opportunity to learn from experienced engineers while developing practical skills. Exploring how AI can be applied within engineering and manufacturing is particularly interesting.” Alexander Battery Technologies designs and manufactures custom battery packs used across sectors including drone (UAV), industrial power tool, robotics and defence applications. Mark Rutherford, CEO of Alexander Battery Technologies, added: “These appointments strengthen the depth of engineering and project expertise within the business as we continue to develop advanced battery technologies for our customers. Bringing in experienced engineers alongside developing new talent through apprenticeships is an important part of how we grow the company and maintain the technical capability needed to support a wide range of applications.” aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30742.jpg Tue, 7 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/bright-ascension-software-helps-support-aac-clyde-space-vireon-satellites.html Bright Ascension's flight software has helped support the successful launch of two VIREON Earth observation satellites, developed by AAC Clyde Space. Image courtesy Bright Ascension  The spacecraft — VIREON 1 and VIREON 2 — launched on SpaceX's Transporter 16 mission on 30th March and are now progressing through commissioning and early orbit operations. Bright Ascension’s flight software forms the backbone of the onboard operational architecture, enabling reliable spacecraft command and control, subsystem health monitoring, payload tasking and seamless integration with ground systems — all within a configurable mission framework designed to support constellation growth. VIREON forms part of AAC Clyde Space’s Data and Services strategy, delivering Earth observation data and analytics that help organisations make informed decisions in areas such as agriculture, forestry and environmental management. Richard McKay, President of Missions and Products at AAC Clyde Space, commented: “On behalf of everyone here at AAC Clyde Space I wanted to express our huge thanks for the incredible levels of support and speed of response as we approached our shipment window. "Your team have consistently displayed the highest levels of support during all phases of the VIREON programme but particularly in the weeks leading up to final test and configuration. "AAC Clyde Space and Bright Ascension have a long-standing strategic partnership across multiple key programmes, and we look forward to many more successes together in the future.” Peter Mendham, Chief Technical Officer of Bright Ascension, said: “VIREON demonstrates the value of well-structured, reusable flight software in enabling reliable and scalable constellation missions. Our focus is on delivering a robust software foundation onboard the spacecraft, that gives mission teams confidence from launch and early orbit through to routine operations and future fleet growth.” With heritage of over 60 software deployments in orbit, Bright Ascension continues to support commercial and institutional programmes with scalable, flight-proven spacecraft software, designed to accelerate mission delivery through its innovative and reusable infrastructure. space http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30759.jpg Tue, 7 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/fac-reviews-tekever-s-progress-in-the-uk.html Senior representatives from the Farnborough Aerospace Consortium (FAC) recently visited AI-centric autonomous systems provider TEKEVER to see how the Portuguese company is progressing with its UK businesses. Above: (left to right) Alan Fisher, FAC, Paul Webb, TEKEVER and Alan Maskell, FAC. Courtesy FAC Pioneering defence and security technology business TEKEVER, which now owns its own airport, has credited early support from Farnborough Aerospace Consortium (FAC) with helping establish its UK journey. Portuguese company TEKEVER said FAC played an important role in supporting the company in its early stages, helping it access the backing needed to develop software capabilities that would go on to support its growth in the UK.   Today, TEKEVER is a pan-European technology company driving innovation in defence and security through AI-centric autonomous systems. The company established its first UK office in Southampton and has since expanded its presence to Bath and London, with Bristol set to follow.   TEKEVER owns West Wales Airport and is preparing to open a major engineering and manufacturing hub in Swindon, where it will produce its pioneering unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other advanced systems. Its systems have been proven in demanding operational environments, providing critical intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capability and supporting complex defence and security missions. What began as a small UK team has grown into a significant national presence as part of TEKEVER’s wider international business.   Recently, Alan Fisher, FAC’s CEO, visited the business to see first-hand how far the company had come. He said: “We were pleased to support TEKEVER in its early stages in the UK and it is remarkable to see how far the company has progressed. “It underlines the importance of backing innovative start-ups and SMEs, helping them turn strong ideas, technical talent and ambition into globally relevant businesses. “At FAC we support our members in a range of ways and TEKEVER’s growth is a powerful example of what can be achieved. We work across the aerospace, aviation, defence and space sectors and their supply chains and it is always encouraging to see companies develop and thrive.”   Paul Webb, one of the two original founders of TEKEVER’s UK business, said: “TEKEVER is a Portuguese company and, together with my colleague Ricardo Mendes, we launched it in the UK because we could see its extraordinary potential. “In the early days, support from FAC helped us build momentum and develop key software capabilities, including technology that made it easier for operators to work with unmanned aircraft systems. “That early support helped lay the foundations for where we are today. Since then, TEKEVER has grown significantly in the UK and we are now delivering a long-term programme of investment through OVERMATCH, our commitment to expanding sovereign capability, industrial capacity and high-skilled employment in the UK. “We now design and produce our own UAVs and West Wales Airport plays an important strategic role in that wider effort. “It is a place where we can test systems, train operators, demonstrate capabilities to customers and support broader collaboration across the sector. “We are also preparing to open a major engineering and manufacturing site in Swindon, which reflects the scale of our long-term ambition in the UK and the next phase of that OVERMATCH journey. “Our software continues to evolve and has potential application across a wider range of autonomous systems.” aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30761.jpg Tue, 7 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/chapman-freeborn-appoints-latha-narayan-as-president-apac.html Chapman Freeborn has appointed Latha Narayan as its President for the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. Image courtesy Chapman Freeborn In this role, Narayan will lead the company’s strategic and commercial development across the Asia Pacific region, focusing on scaling operations, enhancing performance, and strengthening alignment across cargo, passenger and business aviation services. Narayan brings over 20 years of global aviation experience, spanning commercial strategy, revenue management and transformation programmes. She has held senior leadership roles at British Airways and Etihad Airways, driving commercial performance and managing complex, multimarket operations. Most recently, she worked as an independent aviation and cargo consultant, advising on strategic development, network optimisation and digital transformation. She is recognised for her strong commercial acumen and ability to deliver measurable business outcomes. Saska Gerasimova, Group CEO at Chapman Freeborn, said: “Strengthening our leadership in Asia Pacific is a key priority as we continue to scale our global operations. Latha brings a unique combination of strategic insight and commercial expertise, along with a proven ability to lead transformation and deliver results across international markets. Her appointment positions us strongly for the next phase of growth in the region.”   Latha Narayan, President APAC at Chapman Freeborn, added: “I am honoured to step into this role and bring my experience to an organisation recognised for its excellence, integrity and leadership in aviation. In an industry evolving at an extraordinary pace, Chapman Freeborn’s legacy is built on the strength of its people and I am truly excited to work alongside such a talented team. My focus will be on accelerating growth, deepening collaboration and delivering best-in-class solutions across cargo, passenger and business aviation in this next phase. I look forward to leading with purpose and impact, redefining what’s possible in this space.” Her appointment reflects Chapman Freeborn’s continued investment in Asia Pacific as a key strategic region and its commitment to strengthening leadership capabilities across its global network. aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30762.jpg Tue, 7 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/bristol-airport-submits-plans-for-bigger-and-better-airport.html Bristol Airport is looking to offer new destinations around the world under plans submitted to North Somerset Council, that will enable it to expand services to meet customer demand and support economic regional growth. Image courtesy Bristol Airport The proposal, submitted to North Somerset Council last month, would enable the airport to provide more destinations, including world cities within Europe and beyond with a limited number of new longer-haul flights to North America, Middle East, with connections to Asia and beyond. Fewer local people and business travellers would need to rely on travelling to London airports and could instead explore places further afield from their local airport, while also enabling businesses to reach new markets and the tourism sector to benefit from more international visitors exploring our region.  The plans would see an additional 1,000 on-site Airport jobs for local people including roles such as engineers, mechanics, airline crew, retail assistants and caterers. A total of 36,000 jobs would be supported in the South West and South Wales within the supply chain with wider economy benefits. Additionally, partnerships with local colleges providing support to get people into work, skills training and apprenticeships for local people have been proposed. The plans would see around £500 million invested in improvements at the airport and local infrastructure. These include extending the runway to accommodate larger aircraft and increasing capacity of the terminal that includes a number of improvements to enhance the customer experience, including more space, a wider choice of retail and restaurants and the ability to walk onto aircraft without getting on a bus.  Dave Lees, Chief Executive of Bristol Airport, said: “Our proposals deliver what customers have told us they want to see at their local Airport.  We will open up opportunities to visit places further afield and for businesses to expand into new international markets. “This would improve international connectivity to key world cities enhancing trade, supporting high value sectors and improving inward investment, as well as supporting our world-leading universities in their research and innovation endeavours. “It is also about connecting family and friends – something that’s important for the West of England where 30% of people now have close family members living abroad.”  Supporting regional growth  The Airport’s plans come six months after the West of England’s Growth Strategy was published setting out opportunities for economic development in the region, which has the fastest growing and most productive regional economy outside of London. Work is already under way in North Somerset on Epic System’s 90-acre technology campus that will be the base for the US firm’s European headquarters providing jobs and contributing significantly to the local economy. Investment has begun on Bristol Temple Quarter that will provide the city’s next era of economic growth, and South Gloucestershire’s Aviva Arena, as part of YTL’s Brabazon development – all of which would benefit from international connectivity enhancing trade and inward investment.  Mr Lees added: “There is an incredible amount of economic investment in the West of England and it’s an exciting time for the region with so much opportunity. At Bristol Airport we have a responsibility to meet that level of ambition and ensure we have an Airport that connects our region and meets demand from a growing population for air travel.” Bristol Airport’s plans include: A larger terminal with more space, more shops and restaurants. A bigger immigration hall and baggage handling facilities. Runway and taxiway improvements incorporating changes to approach lights to allow for larger aircraft to connect the region directly with North America and the Middle East. Customer improvements including travelators to help passengers get to their gates and the ability to walk to and from aircraft without catching a bus. Significant increase in the number of passengers travelling by public transport alongside additional car parking spaces. Highway improvements on the A38, and a new bus lane making travel more reliable between the north and south side. Expanded car hire facility - to serve the increase in inbound visitors and business travellers. A maintenance hangar - creating high-skill jobs and preventing the need for aircraft based at Bristol Airport to fly elsewhere for maintenance. As part of the plans, the Airport is applying for permission to increase the current passenger cap of 12 million passengers per annum to 15 million passengers per annum, which it expects to reach in the late 2030s. Currently 10.8 million people use Bristol Airport. The increase of 3 million passengers per annum equates to 1% of the total number of passenger journeys made through UK airports in the last year. Aircraft movements would increase from 85,990 to 100,000 per year in the longer term to meet demand for air travel. On a busy day in peak period this would result in 35 extra aircraft movements. While night flying restrictions would remain, the Airport is proposing to increase night flights by 1,000 per year - on average, four per night on a busy night in the peak period. Bristol Airport has worked closely with airlines to improve the type of aircraft operating from the Airport. It has actively encouraged quieter new engine option aircrafts, which have a 50% reduction in noise compared to standard aircraft. One major airline has its highest number of quieter aircrafts operating from Bristol Airport compared to its other UK bases. Under the proposals, targets would see one in four people using public transport to travel to and from the airport; more bus routes utilising the Airport's new £60m Public Transport Interchange alongside junction improvements and an additional bus lane on the A38. It is expected there would be an additional three million passengers per year using the airport by the late 2030s, which can be delivered within the UK’s climate change obligations. The Airport's plans deliver the clear ambition set out in Government aviation policy, making best use of existing runways to deliver significant economic growth. Environmental enhancements include a 10% net gain in biodiversity, new hedgerows, tree planting and bat roosts. A dedicated community fund for nearest communities would see investment in community facilities and support for local projects. In 2024, Bristol Airport consulted on its Master Plan that set out the long-term growth plans and a supplementary consultation took place last year on proposals to modify runway approach lighting that would see lights installed on part of Felton Common in small fenced off areas of land, while maintaining access to the open space. Around 3,000 people engaged in the consultation process. Bristol Airport’s detailed plans, including a full range of impact assessments and consultation analysis, are expected to be published on North Somerset Council’s planning webpage in the next fortnight. The Council will then set out how local people and organisations can view the application and submit comments, which will be considered before the council makes a decision later this year. aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30763.jpg Tue, 7 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/luton-airport-completes-runway-resurfacing.html London Luton Airport (LLA) has completed a significant £18 million investment in resurfacing its runway. Image courtesy LLA The investment to upgrade the durability and performance of the runway ensures the continued long-term safety and efficiency of airport operations from a regulatory and safety viewpoint.  The complex project was delivered over five months of night working by a 120-strong team of resurfacing experts, following months of meticulous planning to ensure operational impacts were kept to a minimum level.  Work on the 2.16km runway commenced each night at 00:01 and completed by 05:45 ahead of the first scheduled flight to depart. Each nightshift involved more than 120 plant and vehicles, and required detailed planning with airfield operations, Air Traffic Control and teams across the airport including health and safety, motor transport, technical engineering services and security.  Marc Wolman, Infrastructure Director at London Luton Airport, commented: “The resurfacing of the London Luton Airport runway was an immense, once in a generation project – the airport’s largest airfield engineering programme in two decades. A complex project of this scale will always present operational challenges and we are delighted to have delivered this critical piece of infrastructure safely, on time, on budget and with minimal impact on airfield operations or our neighbouring communities. "Now, after more than 18 months of meticulous planning and execution, LLA has a new runway in peak condition to ensure a safe, simple and friendly passenger experience for the millions of travellers who pass through the airport each year.”  The programme of works included a taxiway extension, the replacement of over 1,000 halogen runway lights with more energy-efficient LED units, and the installation of a new weather sensor for enhanced forecasting accuracy.  Brandi Davey, Project Manager from Lagan Aviation, commented: “Lagan Aviation and Infrastructure are pleased to have completed the resurfacing of the runway at London Luton Airport, with over 130,000 hours of work to replace 30,000 tonnes of asphalt, and upgrade over 1,000 lights to LED. LLA is a longstanding client of Lagan, having completed its last runway refurbishment in 2006. "This project has demonstrated what can be achieved with a shared goal, and a collaborative approach to project delivery. We look forward to future opportunities to continue this successful partnership, with LLA and its shareholders, AENA and Infrabridge.”  aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30764.jpg Tue, 7 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/new-helicopter-capability-delivered-to-british-army-in-brunei.html Two Airbus Helicopters UK (Airbus) H145 Jupiter HC Mk2 helicopters have been delivered to the British Army in Brunei as part of a £148 million MOD programme marking the start of their journey as modern, reliable capability for operations. Image courtesy MoD / Crown Copyright    The significant milestone in one of Defence's fastest-moving recent procurement programmes with this delivery taking place in just two years. The two aircraft now in Brunei will be used for jungle training, operated by 667 Squadron Army Air Corps, to fulfil the requirements previously carried out by the retired Puma HC2s. The Jupiter HC Mk2 will be responsible for a wide range of essential tasks in Brunei's demanding jungle training environment including medical evacuation, troop transport, underslung load tasks, firefighting, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance, and general aviation support. This delivery represents the latest stage of the contract for six helicopters to serve the Army Air Corps in Brunei and the RAF’s 84 Squadron in Cyprus, supporting 250 UK jobs at Airbus in Oxfordshire. A £33.6M support and service contract for the helicopters was also announced with Airbus in December, supporting 30 UK jobs, including eight UK personnel deployed to Brunei to maintain the aircraft.   Mark Langrill, Director Rotary Wing and Uncrewed Air Systems at the National Armaments Director (NAD) Group, said: "Getting these aircraft to Brunei on this timescale has taken genuine commitment from everyone involved – our MOD team, colleagues in the Army and RAF, and the team at Airbus Helicopters UK. We've demonstrated that accelerated acquisition can work, and we've done it in a way that delivers real capability to the front line while supporting UK industry. Seeing these aircraft begin operational training is a proud moment for the whole programme."   The programme has been delivered through close collaboration between the NAD Group, the Army, the RAF and Airbus Helicopters UK and reflects the strength of the UK's Defence industrial base.   Gp Capt J Brooks, Senior Responsible Owner said: “The rapid delivery of this programme demonstrates the ability to deliver a modern and reliable capability that provides value for money to Defence. Despite the inherent challenges associated with rapid procurement in aviation we will safely deliver a capability that meets Defence’s requirements. This can only be achieved by the collaborative efforts of everyone across the MOD and support from Industry.”   The Jupiter HC Mk2 also advances the UK's Defence Rotary Wing Strategy, which aims to rationalise helicopter types across the fleet and increase commonality – reducing complexity, improving interoperability and driving down whole-life costs.   Crews in Brunei will now build on the experiences of those that have operated the helicopters in the UK over the last four months. All six helicopters are expected to be in-theatre by the end of 2026.   defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30768.jpg Tue, 7 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/rolls-royce-secures-german-puma-propulsion-contract.html Rolls-Royce Power Systems has secured one of the largest defence contracts in its history, for around 200 new mtu PowerPacks featuring the 10V 890 engine for the Bundeswehr’s Puma infantry fighting vehicle. Above: Puma infantry fighting vehicle, developed and manufactured by PSM Project System & Management GmbH, a joint venture of KNDS Deutschland and Rheinmetall Landsysteme.  Credit: PSM Project System & Management GmbH Technical advancements ensure that the propulsion system operates reliably under the most demanding conditions. Delivery is scheduled to begin in 2028. Dr Jörg Stratmann, CEO of Rolls-Royce Power Systems AG, said: "This order sends a strong signal of confidence in our technology and our industrial capabilities. It marks another important milestone for Rolls-Royce Power Systems and underlines our role as a reliable partner to the German Armed Forces. At the same time, it demonstrates that we are scaling up in a targeted manner within a growing market – by expanding our production capacities, investing in modern manufacturing and continuing to build up our skilled workforce.” Above: The mtu PowerPack with the 10V 890 engine being installed in the Puma infantry fighting vehicle.  Credit: PSM Project System & Management GmbH The Puma is regarded as the Bundeswehr’s technological flagship. Around 350 vehicles, built by Rheinmetall and KNDS, have been in service since 2013. Knut Müller, Senior Vice President for Government Business at Rolls-Royce, said: “This order is a milestone. The Puma’s powerpack is unique in its compactness and power density – effectively the Formula 1 engine of tank propulsion systems.  "With the new powerpacks, we are making a significant contribution to the Bundeswehr’s operational readiness and modernisation, whilst at the same time strengthening European defence capabilities through scalable, proven technologies.” The mtu PowerPack brings together everything that powers the Puma: the 10V 890, a highly compact ten-cylinder engine delivering 800 kilowatts of power and featuring an 11-litre displacement, new power electronics, an optimised cooling system and the RENK HSWL 256 gearbox as the central element of the powertrain and driving dynamics.  The system is complemented by further integrated subsystems. Another new feature is a coarse dust blower that reliably removes sand and fine particles from the airflow – a decisive advantage in desert regions and rough terrain.  The mtu PowerPack weighs around 3.5 tonnes – just one-tenth of the total vehicle weight of up to 45 tonnes – and enables the vehicle to operate with agility in all climatic zones. To meet the growing demand in the defence sector, Rolls-Royce Power Systems is further expanding its production capacity, with new production lines, additional skilled staff and modern facilities. defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30753.jpg Thu, 2 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/space-scotland-hosts-international-forum-in-edinburgh.html Senior diplomats from 20 countries and some of Scotland’s most innovative space companies gathered in Edinburgh to turn international interest into tangible partnerships at 'Space Connects the World: Consular Corps Scottish Space Forum'. Image courtesy Space Scotland Convened by the Space Scotland International Engagement Working Group, the high-impact forum brought representatives from 20 nations into direct, deal-focused discussions with Scotland’s rapidly expanding space sector, underscoring growing global demand for its expertise in satellite technology, data services and downstream applications. Hosted at the French Institute of Scotland, the event provided a rare, action-oriented platform where diplomatic missions and industry leaders engaged in targeted conversations and pitched on trade, investment and market access. Delegations from Austria, Belgium, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, India, Ireland, Japan, Latvia, Netherlands, Poland and USA took part in focused sessions with Scottish companies, identifying concrete routes to collaboration and aligning on shared priorities in an increasingly competitive global space economy. Dr Natasha Nicolson CEO of Space Scotland said: “This was about more than networking, it was about unlocking real opportunities. Bringing diplomats and industry together like this creates momentum that translates into partnerships, investment and long-term growth for Scotland’s space sector.” Stéphane Pailler, French Consul General added: “Space is a driver of growth and innovation in our industrial sectors. The significant audience was a real testament to how thriving the Scottish Space industries are. Many consuls generals, many space companies, many issues of interest.” The forum reflects Scotland’s accelerating position as a globally connected hub for space innovation, with international partners actively seeking entry points into its dynamic ecosystem. With over 40 participants, the event marks a decisive step forward in strengthening Scotland’s global space relationships and building a strong pipeline of future commercial and collaborative ventures. Space Scotland is a not-for-profit, sector-led organisation established in 2021 to deliver on national space strategies and accelerate the growth and global impact of Scotland’s space sector. By uniting industry, academia and government, it champions collaboration across the nation’s unique end-to-end space ecosystem — from design and manufacturing to launch and data applications. Through this collective effort, Space Scotland is helping position the country as one of the world’s most innovative and resilient space economies. space http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30754.jpg Thu, 2 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/mgi-conducts-first-tigershark-flights-with-auterion.html MGI Engineering Ltd (MGI) has announced the successful first flights of its TigerShark uncrewed deep strike platform, in partnership with Auterion. Above: TigerShark made its official public debut at DSEI2025. Courtesy MGI Engineering The milestone marks the first time Europe has successfully tested a new system of this range in over a decade, capable of reaching speeds of 750 km/h, operating effectively in GNSS-denied environments, carrying a 300 kg payload and striking targets at ranges exceeding 1,000 km. The TigerShark platform has been engineered to meet the evolving demands of modern high-intensity operations, combining MGI’s expertise in rapid prototyping and advanced systems engineering with Auterion’s industry-leading open software ecosystem.   Developed in close strategic partnership with Auterion, the TigerShark integrates an open, software-defined architecture that enables faster deployment cycles, continuous capability upgrades and seamless interoperability across a wide range of mission profiles. Mike Gascoyne, CEO of MGI Engineering, commented: “The successful launch of TigerShark is a defining moment for MGI. This platform exemplifies our approach to engineering excellence, rapid, agile and mission-focused. "Partnering with Auterion has allowed us to integrate world-class autonomous capabilities into a system designed from the ground up for flexibility and future growth. Together, we are delivering a solution that meets today’s needs while anticipating tomorrow’s challenges." James East, UK General Manager at Auterion, added: “TigerShark marks a breakthrough moment for the development of European autonomous systems. By combining MGI’s innovative platform design with Auterion’s open and secure software stack, we are enabling a new class of autonomous systems that can evolve at the pace of software. "This partnership highlights how collaboration can drive meaningful advancements in capability, speed and interoperability for end users.” The TigerShark platform is designed to support a wide range of applications, from defence and security operations to complex autonomous missions, with a strong emphasis on adaptability and ease of integration. Its open systems approach ensures compatibility with third-party payloads, sensors, and software, providing operators with unprecedented flexibility and control. This launch marks the beginning of a broader roadmap for continued collaboration between MGI and Auterion, focused on expanding autonomous capabilities and delivering operational advantage through innovation. aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30756.jpg Thu, 2 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/saab-secures-uk-order-for-giraffe-1x-radar.html Saab UK has received an order from the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) for the compact radar system Giraffe 1X. Image courtesy Saab The radar systems are being produced at Saab UK’s Centre of Radar Excellence on its Fareham campus, reinforcing the UK’s sovereign capability in advanced radar technology. The total order value is approximately £24 million. The radar systems have been ordered utilising funding from the UK administered NATO Security Assistance and Training Ukraine (NSATU) Trust Fund.  The orders highlight the growing demand for Saab’s radar systems to strengthen Weapon Locating, Air Surveillance and Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems (C UAS) capabilities.  Andy Fraser, Group Managing Director at Saab UK, said: “Giraffe 1X delivers a proven capability that can be rapidly deployed to meet evolving threats, including drones. By producing these systems in Fareham, we are not only delivering world-class technology but also supporting UK industry and sovereign capability – critical for supporting our allies with their defence.”  A spokesperson for the UK Ministry of Defence said: “This contract reflects our commitment to strengthening collective security through advanced radar technology needed to maintain operational advantage and protect shared interests.”  As a lightweight 3D Multi Mission Radar, Giraffe 1X can be used as a mobile, deployable, or fixed sensor that can be integrated into both land and naval platforms. Giraffe 1X is a proven multi mission radar capability – operated globally with production in Sweden and the UK. Its role ranges from force protection, weapon locating, ground-based air defence (including C-UAS drone detection) and sea surface surveillance – offering unmatched flexibility for modern operations in multiple terrains. defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30757.jpg Thu, 2 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/babcock-confirms-location-of-capability-centre-in-plymouth.html Babcock has today confirmed the location for its new Capability Centre in Plymouth - a major milestone in plans to relocate up to 2,000 highly skilled employees into the heart of the city.   Image courtesy Babcock International Group The new Capability Centre will be based at 40-46 Royal Parade, the former home of Dingles and latterly House of Fraser, significantly increasing footfall in the city-centre, supporting local businesses and services, and helping to breathe new life into the iconic Plymouth building.   Establishing this new facility, in addition to the Dockyard, will enable Babcock to free up vital space at its Devonport site, supporting the continued focus on delivering critical and complex Ministry of Defence programmes in the South West. The investment will also deliver a boost to Plymouth’s economy.   The plans, first announced in June last year, will see some of Babcock’s employees transition from Devonport Royal Dockyard to the new facility, which will play a key role in supporting long-term operations, while also strengthening Plymouth’s position as a national hub for defence, engineering, skills and innovation.   Harry Holt, Chief Executive of Babcock Nuclear said: “Securing a location for our new off site facility is a significant milestone. Importantly, it will strengthen the capabilities required to deliver this critical work in the defence of our nation. The move reinforces our commitment to Team Plymouth, supporting sustainable prosperity by creating high quality jobs, strengthening Plymouth’s economy and accelerating regeneration in the city centre.   “With major investment through the Ministry of Defence in our Devonport co located site and new services, including our MoveSmart shuttle bus service, it is an exciting time for Babcock and for Plymouth. We remain committed to this journey with our colleagues, customer and partners, moving forward, together.”   Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport said: “Babcock’s announcement that Plymouth city centre will be home to 2,000 workers is a huge vote of confidence; not just in our city, but in our regeneration plans and the future of defence here. By relocating roles into the city centre, this move creates vital space at Devonport for the billions of pounds being invested in new defence infrastructure, equipment, and capability, supporting both our armed forces and the local economy.”   Lord Vernon Coaker said: “With Babcock's new Capability Centre bringing jobs into the heart of the city, it will boost the local economy and help cement Plymouth's status as a nationally significant hub for defence, engineering and innovation.   This is exactly the kind of investment we want to see as part of our wider mission to strengthen UK defence and spread opportunity across the country. The power of collaborative working as part of Team Plymouth will unlock Defence driven growth amongst our partners.”   Leader of Plymouth City Council, Tudor Evans said: “This is fantastic news for Plymouth. Babcock's commitment, bringing 2,000 more people into the city centre, will deliver a major boost to people and businesses. It marks an important moment for the city and shows what's possible when Team Plymouth partners come together."   The announcement builds on recent momentum for the city, including Plymouth being named a National Defence Growth Area and the Ministry of Defence’s £4.4 billion investment in Devonport.    defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30765.jpg Thu, 2 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/artemis-ii-lifts-off-destination-moon-with-the-orion-spacecraft.html Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen have taken off from Kennedy Space Center, bound for the Moon. More than 50 years after Apollo, this first crewed flight beyond low Earth orbit marks a historic milestone for NASA’s Artemis programme. The stakes are twofold: to validate the Orion spacecraft's systems and hardware essential for astronaut survival in deep space and to pave the way for the critical docking demonstrations of the Artemis III mission. Image courtesy Airbus  A complex 10 day mission Reaching lunar orbit requires a spacecraft far more sophisticated than those used to reach the ISS. Orion must travel to the Moon, more than 400,000 kilometres from Earth, perform a loop around it (the lunar fly-by), and return safely to Earth. For this journey, the crew relies on a key part of the spacecraft: the European Service Module (ESM), designed and built by Airbus on behalf of the European Space Agency (ESA). Its contribution begins at the very start of the voyage, providing the vital elements for survival: air, drinking water, power and a regulated temperature within the crew module.   space http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30766.jpg Thu, 2 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/edm-acquires-safety-training-systems.html EDM Ltd today announced the acquisition of Safety Training Systems, Inc. (STS), a highly respected US-based provider of custom training devices and precision-engineered simulation hardware.    Image courtesy EDM Ltd.   EDM has built a strong international reputation for delivering complex, high-performance training systems, supported by fully integrated in-house design, manufacturing and project management capabilities. STS, established in 1978 and headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, brings complementary expertise as a trusted supplier of cabin crew and military training devices, with deep experience supporting prime contractors and airlines worldwide.    This strategic acquisition represents a significant milestone in EDM’s growth trajectory, expanding its footprint in North America and enhancing its ability to deliver end-to-end training solutions at scale.   Strategic Rationale and Benefits   The combination of EDM and STS creates a highly complementary platform with clear operational and commercial synergies:   • Expanded Global Reach: The acquisition provides EDM with an established US manufacturing base, strengthening proximity to key aerospace and defence customers and enabling improved responsiveness across North America. • Enhanced Manufacturing Capability: STS’s 80,000 sq. ft state-of-the-art facility and expertise in fabrication, assembly, and advanced manufacturing processes will augment EDM’s existing UK operations, increasing overall production capacity and flexibility.  • Broader Product Offering: Both organisations share a strong heritage in aviation training devices—including cabin crew trainers, evacuation systems, and military simulators—creating opportunities to expand product portfolios and deliver more integrated, turnkey solutions. • Complementary Engineering Expertise: STS’s strengths in design-to-spec and build-to-print manufacturing, combined with EDM’s systems integration and simulation expertise, will accelerate innovation and reduce development lead times. • Stronger Position with Prime Contractors: The combined entity will be better positioned to support major aerospace and defence primes through enhanced scale, capability, and geographic coverage. Opportunities for Growth   The acquisition unlocks multiple avenues for value creation:   • Cross-Selling Opportunities: Leveraging each company’s established customer relationships to introduce complementary products and services across both commercial aviation and defence markets. • Supply Chain Optimisation: Increased vertical integration and dual-site manufacturing will improve resilience, reduce risk, and enhance cost efficiency. • Innovation and R&D: Joint investment in next-generation simulation technologies, including advanced materials, digital integration, and rapid prototyping capabilities. • Market Expansion: Strengthened ability to pursue larger, multi-region contracts and long-term framework agreements with global customers.   Leadership Commentary   Tony Bermingham, CEO of EDM Ltd, commented:“Bringing STS into the EDM group is a natural and strategic step. Both organisations share a commitment to engineering excellence, customer focus, and delivering mission-critical training solutions. This acquisition significantly enhances our global capabilities and positions us for the next phase of growth.”   Andy Bartovick, the new CEO & President of STS, added:“EDM is an ideal partner for STS. Our combined expertise, resources, and market access will allow us to better serve our customers and accelerate innovation. We are excited about the opportunities this collaboration creates for our employees and clients alike.”    Integration and Outlook   STS will continue to operate from its Tulsa facility, maintaining its strong customer relationships and operational expertise, while benefiting from EDM’s global infrastructure, supply chain, and programme management capabilities.   Together, EDM and STS will form a strengthened, transatlantic organisation dedicated to delivering world-class training and simulation solutions to the aerospace and defence industries.   home http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30767.jpg Thu, 2 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/defining-aluminium-as-a-strategic-material-for-national-security.html Nadine Bloxsome, CEO of ALFED, explains why the UK should officially designate aluminium as a critical strategic material, central to increasing resilience and strengthening national defence and security. Image courtesy ALFED The UK Government’s recent announcement to prioritise domestic suppliers across steel, shipbuilding, AI and energy infrastructure for national security procurement is both welcome and necessary. It signals a clear shift towards strengthening sovereign capability, building resilient supply chains and recognising that industrial capacity is fundamental to national security.  However, within this announcement sits a notable and concerning omission. Aluminium is not mentioned. At a time when the UK is actively seeking to strengthen its defence industry and reduce reliance on overseas supply chains, this absence is increasingly difficult to justify.  The omission of aluminium is not a minor oversight, it represents a fundamental gap in how we are defining strategic materials in the context of national security. Aluminium is not a peripheral material. It is a foundational one. Its unique combination of light weight, strength, corrosion resistance and recyclability makes it indispensable across defence, transport, energy and advanced manufacturing.  Nowhere is this more evident than in shipbuilding, one of the sectors highlighted in the Government’s announcement. Modern vessels increasingly rely on aluminium to improve efficiency, reduce fuel consumption and enhance operational performance. This is already happening in the UK, with companies such as OCEA demonstrating how aluminium is central to next-generation maritime capability. If shipbuilding is considered critical to national security, then the materials that enable it must also be treated as strategically important. Tony Graham, Chair of OCEA Shipbuilding UK Ltd, said: “The Aluminium Federation (ALFED) are right to alert our politicians and public to the critical importance of aluminium to defence, economic modernisation and national resilience.  "All aspects of our national strength are built upon the superiority of aluminium performance, from everyday things like packaging and civil transport systems, to just-in-case things like military platforms and weapons. In the national resilience alphabet it has to be the first and most important critical material on any nation’s list – aluminium. Our access to this vital lightweight material should weigh heavy on all our minds.” This perspective reinforces a growing consensus across industry: aluminium is not just relevant to national security, it is central to it. The UK’s current position also sits increasingly at odds with its international counterparts. In the United States, aluminium is formally recognised as a strategic and critical material. It was designated as a 'critical mineral' by the Department of the Interior in 2022 and remains included in subsequent critical materials lists, including the 2025 update. This classification reflects a clear understanding of aluminium’s importance to defence, infrastructure and industrial resilience. Similarly, the European Union has moved decisively in recognising aluminium’s strategic significance.  At ALFED, we have been working closely with industry and defence stakeholders to better understand aluminium’s role in national security. Our recent Defence Report makes this position unequivocally clear: aluminium is identified as a NATO critical material and ranked as number one in terms of strategic importance. This reflects its central role in enabling military mobility, lightweight transport systems, secure infrastructure and the technologies required for both defence and the energy transition. Yet despite this, aluminium does not yet feature prominently in UK policy discussions around national security procurement. This points to a broader strategic blind spot. While the Government is right to focus on strengthening domestic supply chains and reducing reliance on overseas sourcing, aluminium remains one of the most globally exposed and energy-intensive supply chains in the world. Without a clear domestic strategy, the UK risks continued dependence on international markets for a material that underpins its defence, infrastructure and energy systems. This is not simply a matter of recognition; it is a matter of alignment. If the UK is serious about building a resilient, future-proof defence and industrial base, then its policies must reflect the full reality of the materials that underpin modern systems. Steel will always have a vital role to play but it cannot be viewed in isolation. Aluminium is equally critical and in many applications, it is irreplaceable. There is, however, a clear opportunity. The UK has a strong and capable aluminium sector, with expertise spanning production, processing, recycling, finishing and distribution. It also has the potential to lead in low-carbon aluminium, aligning industrial growth with net zero ambitions. What is needed now is a policy framework that recognises and supports this capability, one that embeds aluminium into national security thinking, procurement strategies and long-term industrial planning. The Government’s announcement is an important step forward but it must now go further. Recognising aluminium as a strategic material would not only strengthen the UK’s national security position, it would also unlock investment, drive innovation and ensure that the country remains competitive in an increasingly complex global landscape. At ALFED, we have set out the evidence and recommendations in our Defence Report and I would strongly encourage policymakers and industry leaders to engage with it: https://alfed.org.uk/alfed-defence-report National security today is not defined solely by defence budgets or military capability. It is defined by the strength of our supply chains, the resilience of our industries and the materials that make modern infrastructure possible. Steel has rightly been given a seat at the table and now it is time for aluminium to be recognised alongside it. features http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30739.jpg Wed, 1 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/symca-grant-unlocks-rolls-royce-investment-in-rotherham-abcf.html Rolls-Royce has announced a £19.3 million investment in its highly specialised Advanced Blade Casting Facility (ABCF) in Rotherham, following a grant of £2 million from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA). Above: The Advanced Blade Casting Facility, Rotherham, UK. Rolls Royce The total of £21.3 million is funding an increase in the capability and productivity of the facility, which manufactures some of the world’s most advanced turbine blades for Rolls-Royce jet engines that power long haul aircraft. Additional specialist machines funded by the investment will double output at the facility by 2030. Nigel Bird, Executive Vice President, Turbine Systems, for Rolls-Royce, said: "We’re grateful to South Yorkshire’s Mayor for his support. It’s a clear example of how regional government can generate confidence for private sector investment, helping to retain and expand this type of unique UK capability, and supporting UK exports. “Thanks to Rolls-Royce's ongoing transformation we’re able to make this investment, which will bring benefits to the region and our customers. Our incredible team in Rotherham are making components every day that are pushing the boundaries of science. "This investment is a vote of confidence in them and in the capability of the wider region to stay at the forefront of advanced manufacturing. We look forward to future collaboration that will help keep these valuable skills in the community.” South Yorkshire’s Mayor Oliver Coppard said: "South Yorkshire is home to world‑class engineering, world‑class innovation and world‑class talent. “I’m proud that our support will help to unlock growth, keep cutting‑edge manufacturing here in South Yorkshire and further strengthen our role at the heart of the UK’s advanced manufacturing industry.” ABCF casts, machines and inspects intermediate and high pressure turbine blades for the Trent XWB-84 which powers the Airbus A350-900 and the Trent 1000 XE, which powers the Boeing 787.  Each high pressure turbine blade generates the power of a Formula 1 car, with between 60 and 90 inside each engine to provide enough thrust to propel some of the largest and most efficient aircraft into the sky. The ABCF employs more than 300 people, largely from the local area, and was opened in 2015. It forms part of the world class UK advanced manufacturing capability for Rolls-Royce and is part supported by a complex global supply chain. aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30748.jpg Wed, 1 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/ncsc-warns-of-messaging-app-targeting.html Alongside international partners, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued actions for individuals at risk of attacks against messaging apps, as a result of growing malicious activity from Russia-based actors using messaging apps - such as WhatsApp, Messenger and Signal - to target high-risk individuals. Above: The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Nova South, London. Image by Simona Flamigni / copyright Shutterstock High-risk individuals face a greater likelihood of attacks against their accounts due to a combination of their role and potential access to sensitive information and important people. You might be a high-risk individual if your work or public status means you have access to, or influence over, sensitive information that could be of interest to threat actors. The NCSC has previously reported on the targeting of government officials’ accounts by China state-affiliated APT31, Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) actor Star Blizzard and Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Attackers may attempt to: Trick you into sharing login or account recovery codes. Add their own device to your account without you noticing.   Join group chats without detection. Impersonate someone you know. Phish you using malicious links or QR codes.  What should I do? While anyone can be the victim of social engineering there are key actions you can take to reduce the risks against your personal accounts: Do not share sensitive information via messaging apps. For work communications, use corporately provided messaging services and devices where available and abide by your organisation’s policies. Do not share verification codes or scan unexpected QR codes. Enable two-step verification (for Signal users this is called Registration Lock in Settings). Enable passkeys where available (both WhatsApp and Signal support passkeys). Regularly check for linked devices in settings, review group members and remove or verify any participants you do not recognise independently.   Beware of impersonations, unknown contacts and contacts appearing more than once. On personal accounts use disappearing messages that automatically delete after a set period – by turning this on you will limit what a successful attacker could access if they do manage to get in. However, you should have regard to any applicable record keeping requirements. The NCSC’s guidance for high-risk individuals on protecting accounts and devices supports all these recommended actions and includes information on accessing Individual Cyber Defence services to further improve your personal cyber resilience. The following NCSC advice should be considered:    - Device Security guidance - choosing an enterprise instant messaging solution    - Secure communications principles Further advice and resources Those working in government should follow government guidance on the use of non-corporate communications channels.   Google has issued content about how multiple Russia-aligned actors are actively targeting Signal Messenger. Microsoft’s post also outlines the threat against messaging apps including lures designed to tricks users of these services. security http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30749.jpg Wed, 1 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/sia-introduces-changes-for-close-protection-operatives.html Today, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) have introduced changes to training for those holding, or applying for, a close protection licence. Courtesy SIA  On 1st April 2025 the SIA have made it a requirement for a ‘refresher’ qualification to be obtained before operatives can renew their close protection licence. They must hold a level 3 first aid qualification (FAW or equivalent) before they can take the refresher training. They will need to show this to their training provider when they register for the course. CHANGES FOR CLOSE PROTECTION OPERATIVES Changes the SIA introduced in 2022 In 2022 the SIA introduced an updated close protection qualification. It also made it a requirement that you must have the new qualification or take top-up training before you can apply for or renew a close protection licence. Changes for door supervisors and security guards These changes apply to you if you hold, or are applying for, a door supervisor or security guard licence. Changes the SIA introduced on 1st April 2025 On 1st April 2025 we made it a requirement that you must have a ‘refresher’ qualification before you can renew your door supervisor or security guard licence. You must hold an up-to-date Emergency First Aid at Work qualification, or equivalent, before you can take the refresher training. You will need to show this to your training provider when you register for the course. Changes the SIA introduced in 2021 In 2021 the SIA introduced new, updated qualifications for all sectors except close protection and vehicle immobilisation. The SIA also made it a requirement that: You must have an Emergency First Aid at Work qualification, or equivalent, before you can take the training required for a door supervisor or security guard licence You must have one of the new qualifications or take top-up training before you can apply for or renew a door supervisor and security guard licence   Why are such changes necessary? The SIA need to make sure that people working in the private security industry can: keep the public safe follow new working practices understand recent changes to the law make the best use of new technology Switching to a different licence If you hold a door supervisor licence you can choose one of the following options: take the door supervisor refresher training and renew your door supervisor licence take the security guard refresher training and switch to a security guard licence If you already hold a close protection licence you can choose one of the following options: take the close protection top-up training and renew your close protection licence take the door supervisor refresher training and switch to a door supervisor licence FIRST AID TRAINING Door supervisors and security guards You must complete an Emergency First Aid at Work qualification, or equivalent, before taking your licence-linked training. This applies both to the full licence-linked training courses and to the refresher training. The SIA accept qualifications that comply with the relevant guidance from the Health and Safety Executive. Some examples are: First Aid at Work (FAW) First Person on Scene (FPOS) First Response Emergency Care (FREC) Training providers can provide more information about this. Close protection operatives You must complete a first aid qualification at level 3 or above before taking your licence-linked training. Some examples are: Level 3 First Aid at Work (FAW) Level 3 First Person on Scene (FPOS) Level 3 First Response Emergency Care (FREC) The SIA accept other qualifications and training providers can tell you more about this. Find out more To find out more: www.gov.uk/government/publications/changes-to-sia-licence-linked-training-your-questions-answered security http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30750.jpg Wed, 1 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/qinetiq-to-establish-belgian-mission-data-factory.html QinetiQ is to support the Government of Belgium in strengthening its ability to collect, manage and exploit mission data, the information and intelligence critical to modern defence operations. Above: (left to right) Major-General Pierre Ciparisse, Commander of the Belgian Cyber Force and Air Vice-Marshall Nigel Maddox, Defence Exports, Ministry of Defence (MoD), signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Courtesy QinetiQ A new, multimillion pound joint programme will be established after a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the UK and Belgium last week. Over the next five years, QinetiQ will export its mission data expertise to help establish a sovereign Joint Electromagnetic Warfare Support Centre (JEWSC) in Belgium. Mission data plays an increasingly vital role in today’s digitally enabled battlespace, giving armed forces the operational edge required to deter and defeat adversaries. As military platforms become more sophisticated, they rely on precise, mission specific information collected, analysed and distilled from sources including threat signatures, radar and communications frequencies, to stay safe and effective against rapidly evolving threats. Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP, said: “By combining our expertise and investing in shared capabilities, we are strengthening NATO and showing Britain stands shoulder-to-shoulder with our European allies. This is not just good news for our partnership with Belgium - it is good news for the UK defence industry. A significant amount of this investment will flow directly into the UK.” Steve Wadey, Group CEO, QinetiQ, said: “Our extensive operational experience supporting the UK’s production and management of its mission data means we’re in a unique position to provide specialist expertise and training to allied nations, as they build and enhance their own sovereign capabilities in this increasingly critical area for defence. We look forward to working with partners across industry and government to deliver this vital capability to the Government of Belgium.” QinetiQ, as the industry lead for the UK government-industry partnership Project SOCIETAS, is delivering mission data services to the UK armed forces at home and abroad, via the UK’s Joint Electronic Warfare Operational Support Centre (JEWOSC). QinetiQ is also playing a key role at the Typhoon Mission Support Centre, where embedded teams of experts work with the Royal Air Force to develop and refine mission data, enhancing the UK Typhoon fleet. Through its role in Project SOCIETAS, QinetiQ will work closely with the Belgian Ministry of Defence, the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) and industry partners in both nations to help establish, operationalise and sustain the new JEWSC in Belgium. Major General Ciparisse, Commander of the Belgian Cyber Force, said: "To address the growing need for specialised electromagnetic warfare (EW) experts and to support the introduction of new high technology weapon systems, it appeared entirely natural for us to adopt a cooperation model inspired by the successful British SOCIETAS programme and the United Kingdom’s long standing experience in electronic warfare. The programme will help us establish a structured partnership between our JEWSC and Belgian industry, complemented by organised collaboration with QinetiQ and UK industrial partners.  "Through this approach, industrial actors in both Belgium and the United Kingdom stand to benefit from shared expertise, technology exchange and new opportunities for joint development. This initiative aims to provide Belgium with a reliable, long term and sovereign EW capability, reinforcing national resilience in an increasingly complex electromagnetic environment." defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30751.jpg Wed, 1 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/solar-array-to-be-installed-at-bassingbourn-barracks.html The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), working with Custom Solar on behalf of the British Army, held a ground-breaking ceremony for a new solar array at Bassingbourn Barracks. Above: Representatives from DIO, the British Army, Mitie and Mott MacDonald at the ground-breaking ceremony Courtesy DIO / Crown Copyright The £3.9 million project was awarded to Custom Solar, which is part of Mitie Power & Grid, as part of the Army’s Project Prometheus. This has already seen solar installations at other Army sites including Weeton Barracks and Larkhill Garrison and aims to contribute to the Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) Net Zero targets. The ground-breaking ceremony was held ahead of the start of construction for the new ground-mounted array, which will consist of more than 5,000 panels covering over 30,000m2. This will generate 2.2MWp of renewable electricity annually, which is forecast to meet approximately one third of the energy needs for Bassingbourn Barracks.   Warren Webster, DIO Major Programmes and Projects Programme Director – Army, said: "It’s fantastic to see the start of work on another solar array under Project Prometheus. The project is supplying renewable energy to a number of British Army sites, contributing to the Ministry of Defence’s Net Zero targets. This new array at Bassingbourn Barracks is expected to meet one third of the site’s annual electricity needs, marking another stage in our progress towards our goals." Lieutenant Colonel Ed Brooks, Army Sustainability, Efficiency and Exploitation (SEE) Team Energy Lead, said: "We are delighted to see work getting underway on a new solar installation at Bassingbourn Barracks. "By increasing the supply of renewable energy across Army sites, we are building a more sustainable estate that will strengthen our energy resilience and support operational capability, while protecting the environments where our people live, work and train." Mark Caskey, Managing Director, Mitie Projects, said: "Breaking ground at Bassingbourn Barracks builds on our long‑standing relationship with both the Defence Infrastructure Organisation and the Ministry of Defence and reflects the confidence placed in Mitie to continue delivering solar energy projects across the defence estate. "Following the successful delivery of the solar installation at Weeton Barracks, we’re pleased to be working with the DIO again to deliver a project that strengthens on‑site energy resilience and supports wider decarbonisation objectives." defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30752.jpg Wed, 1 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/uk-and-france-to-develop-next-gen-air-to-air-missile.html The United Kingdom and France have today signed a Memorandum of Understanding to conduct a joint study into the development of a successor to the Meteor missile, one of the world's most advanced beyond-visual-range air-to-air weapons. Above: Meteor being loaded onto Typhoon. Courtesy DE&S The agreement, a key deliverable from the Lancaster House 2.0 treaty, reinforces the deep defence partnership between the two nations and their shared commitment to European security and NATO capability. The 12-month study will assess the future threat landscape and develop new missile concepts capable of meeting the challenges of air warfare in the coming decades. The study will examine which technologies should be incorporated into a next-generation weapon system and establish a roadmap for its development. The Meteor missile, currently in service with the Royal Air Force on Typhoon and the French Air Force on Rafale, represents a benchmark in European missile performance.  Developed through a six-nation partnership, it demonstrates what can be achieved through close industrial collaboration. This new study aims to be a first step towards achieving similar success, ensuring that the UK, France and prospective partner nations maintain air superiority well into the future. The initiative forms part of a revived Entente Industrielle between the two countries, focused on reducing duplication, improving industrial efficiency and strengthening NATO's edge in high-end air combat. A new joint Complex Weapons Portfolio Office will be established to coordinate this and other missile programmes, ensuring closer alignment between national defence priorities and opening opportunities for cooperation with other countries. Luke Pollard MP, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, said: "In a new era of threat we are increasing co-operation with our friends and allies. This agreement is a significant step forward in delivering on our Lancaster House 2.0 commitments, demonstrating the strength of our UK-France defence partnership. “We are strengthening NATO’s capabilities and European security by working with France on the next generation of air-to-air missiles – exactly the kind of close collaboration needed to deter our adversaries in this new era of threat.” defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30755.jpg Wed, 1 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/loganair-royal-mail-and-beta-advance-electric-aviation-operations.html Loganair, Royal Mail and BETA Technologies, today announced the successful completion of the UK's first electric flight demonstration programme across Scotland's regional air network. Above: Loganair hangar. Courtesy Loganair / BETA These demonstration flights represent an important technical milestone that signals that the future of essential regional connectivity can be both reliable and sustainable. Over 10 days, BETA's ALIA CTOL (conventional takeoff and landing) electric aircraft completed 23 flights across the UK, including 18 Scottish legs connecting Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen, Inverness, Wick and Kirkwall, covering 1,006 nautical miles in 11.2 flight hours. Flights included representative  Royal Mail postal routes that are essential to deliver to some of Scotland's most remote communities, with the aircraft averaging 56-mile missions at 99 knots and achieving an energy efficiency of 1.37 kWh per nautical mile. Following the success of this programme, Loganair and BETA Technologies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand the scope of their work and further test the aircraft across the Loganair network.  Scotland's geography makes it one of the most compelling proving grounds for electric aviation anywhere in the world. With more than 90 inhabited islands and communities in the Highlands separated by hundreds of miles of terrain that road and rail cannot bridge, air connectivity is not a convenience, it is critical infrastructure.  The region's dense network of short-haul routes, typically under 100 miles, aligns closely with the operational range and efficiency profile of today's electric aircraft, making Scotland a natural first market for commercial electric flight at scale. The programme validated aircraft performance, ground handling, charging operations and integration into existing airport and airspace systems. It also demonstrated that electric aviation can be deployed using existing infrastructure with targeted upgrades, made possible through close collaboration with AGS Airports and Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL), whose airports are now equipped to support future electric operations using BETA's compact, mobile mini-cube charging solution. Royal Mail is the only delivery company to deliver to all 32 million addresses in the UK every day, including the country’s most remote communities. Fulfilling this Universal Service Obligation on routes across the Scottish Highlands and Islands depends on a complex network of road, sea and air and on Loganair's six decades of experience connecting communities that depend entirely on reliable air connections.   "These flights prove that electric aviation can support the essential services communities depend on every day," said Kyle Clark, founder and CEO of BETA Technologies. "ALIA is designed for exactly these missions, connecting people and moving goods with lower operating costs and zero emissions. The collaboration between Loganair, Royal Mail, UK CAA, AGS Airports and HIAL was essential to this programme's success and these results represent a meaningful step toward commercial operations in Scotland and beyond.” Luke Farajallah, CEO at Loganair, said: “This has been an historic event for UK aviation and the early results are hugely encouraging for what the future of electric flight may hold. The signing of an MoU allows us to build on the invaluable data collected so far and deepen our understanding of how electric aircraft could operate across our entire network. Our thanks go to BETA Technologies, Royal Mail, AGS Airports, HIAL and the UK CAA for their collaboration and commitment, helping to shape the foundations of a cleaner, smarter and more connected era for regional aviation in the UK and well beyond.” Chris Paxton, Strategic Insight and Innovation Manager at Royal Mail, said: “Royal Mail is the only company that delivers to every single address in the UK, including the most remote and hard to reach communities. Some flights are essential to do that and the success of the trial with Loganair and BETA Technologies is an exciting step forward in how we could decarbonise the Scottish flight routes as part of our journey to Net-Zero by 2040.” aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30758.jpg Wed, 1 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/logiq-acquires-savient.html Logiq has acquired Savient Ltd, a technology and data specialist focused on delivery in highly regulated environments, strengthening its capability and further expanding its presence in the South-West. Image By Pasko Maksim / Copyright Shutterstock Founded in 2018, Logiq has grown rapidly to a team of over 175 specialists, establishing itself as a trusted partner to organisations operating in highly regulated sectors, including defence, central government and CNI. The company specialises in security assurance, system delivery and secure solutions, supporting clients to deliver and operate systems in environments where security, resilience and compliance are non-negotiable. Savient provides software consultancy, development and technical solutions to organisations at the forefront of next generation technology, science and engineering, supporting complex programmes subject to stringent operational constraints and assurance requirements. Its established client relationships and hands-on delivery expertise complement Logiq’s existing capabilities and sector focus.  The acquisition brings Savient’s team of specialists into Logiq and strengthens the company’s footprint in a region at the heart of the UK’s cyber and National Security ecosystem. The move comes at a time of sustained growth in demand for cyber security across government and defence, alongside increasing pressure on organisations to access security-cleared specialists with experience of operating in highly controlled environments. The combination of Logiq and Savient bolsters the ability to meet that demand with proven, delivery-focused capability. James Morgan, CEO of Logiq, said: “Logiq has continued to deliver sustained organic growth and, whilst we’ve been deliberate about how we scale, this is a strategic acquisition that reinforces what we already do well. Savient have an exceptional reputation across Government and we are excited to work alongside a highly capable team with deep experience of delivering in secure environments. Their trusted client relationships align closely with our own. Our capabilities are highly complementary, and we’re excited to expand our presence within the UK’s Cyber Security capital.” Andrew Alhadeff, MD, Savient Ltd said: “We’ve built Savient around supporting clients in complex, high-assurance environments, where delivery has to work in practice, not just in theory. Savient’s technical solutions transform business not only for clients but also change the experience of their employees and customers. There is a very clear and very strong alignment with Logiq’s approach and becoming part of Logiq allows us to scale that capability while continuing to support our clients with the same focus and expertise.” Savient will be integrated with Logiq, ensuring continuity of service for existing clients. Both teams will work closely to ensure a smooth transition while maintaining delivery standards and trusted relationships. The combined organisation will be well positioned to support a broader range of programmes across secure government and regulated sectors, with increased depth in capability and capacity to deliver in complex, high-assurance environments. security http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30760.jpg Wed, 1 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/mag-appoints-atkinsr-alis-to-support-growth-strategy.html AtkinsRéalis has been appointed by Manchester Airports Group (MAG) to support its long-term strategic vision for growth, passenger experience improvement and future investment in its infrastructure. Image courtesy MAG   MAG’s new Capital Investment Consultancy Services (CICS) Framework will see AtkinsRéalis provide a broad range of consultancy and design services to support MAG’s capital programmes. Across Project Services, the company will supply managed services and specialist expertise including programme management, cost management, health and safety, business consultancy, change support and operational readiness advisory across Manchester, East Midlands and London Stansted airports.   AtkinsRéalis has also been named the sole preferred provider for Built Environment Design Services for the South region, ensuring a leading role in delivering multidisciplinary built environment design services across the region.    Gareth Vest, market director for Aviation at AtkinsRéalis, said: “Manchester Airports Group has a clear vision for its future growth and infrastructure requirements, which will not only strengthen its business but drive economic growth across the regions where it operates.    “We are fully committed to supporting that vision, working collaboratively with MAG and its partners towards their goal, and being responsive to the group’s needs.”    Claire McDermott, client director and framework lead at AtkinsRéalis, added: “Working closely with MAG has shown me the ambition of their teams, and this framework strengthens our partnership. “At AtkinsRéalis, we act as a strategic partner listening to MAG’s needs, aligning with their priorities, and bringing the right specialists forward to help deliver efficient, resilient and future ready infrastructure across the Group.”   Richard Cooper, procurement contracts manager at MAG, said: “Manchester Airports Group is looking to secure our vision for long-term growth and investment in our infrastructure to provide an improved experience for our passengers.   “As such, we look forward to strengthening our relationship with AtkinsRéalis as they provide a broad range of consultancy and design services to support our capital programmes and help us to realise that long-term vision.”   Further appointments include Architect Services, Airport Security In Airport Development (ASIAD), providing specialist security engineering services via accredited RSES consultants and MEP Building Services, covering mechanical, electrical and plumbing design as well as asset condition surveys and systems engineering.    AtkinsRéalis’ appointment builds on its strong relationship with MAG which has been established over the past five years, during which the company has supported a range of programmes under the previous framework.    The eight-year framework will support MAG’s long term strategic aspirations, including preparing its airports for growth, improving passenger experience and enabling future investment in infrastructure as continued passenger growth, operational resilience and infrastructure enhancement are business priorities.    AtkinsRéalis’ work across the six lots it has been appointed to will help provide the technical, design and programme support needed to enable that next phase of development. aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30740.jpg Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/caa-publishes-initial-proposals-for-heathrow-h8-price-cap.html The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has today published its Initial Proposals for the maximum fees that Heathrow Airport Limited (HAL) can charge airlines for using the airport for the H8 regulatory period, which runs from January 2027 until the end of 2031. Above: Heathrow. Copyright CAA The regulator is now consulting on a range for its H8 Initial Proposals, which will set the cap on airport charges at between £27.20 and £30.50 per passenger. The mid-point of the CAA's range implies an average charge over H8 of £28.80 compared to average charges over H7 of £28.40. The CAA's mid-point is some 16% or £5.40 lower than HAL’s forecast and some 25% or £5.80 higher than the airlines’ proposed charges. The proposals for the next Heathrow price control are separate from the work the regulator is conducting to support capacity expansion at Heathrow. The proposals also set incentives for Heathrow to improve both its service quality standards and environmental performance. Heathrow is planning to invest billions in the coming years to improve airport resilience as well as improvements in consumer services, including baggage handling and security. The multiyear price caps allow Heathrow to recover efficient costs while setting out incentives for cost-effective investment. Selina Chadha, Group Director of Consumer and Markets at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: “Our primary duty is to protect consumers and at the heart of today’s proposals is doing the right thing for passengers using Heathrow airport, while supporting sustainable growth, investment and efficiency.  “Our proposals for the airport charges levied by Heathrow on airlines strike the right balance between keeping passenger prices fair, while enabling the airport to make the investment needed to improve services for the future. We encourage all stakeholders to provide us with their views on our initial proposals.” The UK Civil Aviation Authority will publish its final proposals for the H8 price control in November 2026 followed by a Final Decision in April 2027. aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30741.jpg Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/iata-sees-strong-air-passenger-and-cargo-demand-growth-for-february.html The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released data for February 2026 showing global passenger demand was up 6.1% and air cargo demand rose by 11.2%, compared to February 2025 levels. Image courtesy IATA Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), was up 6.1% compared to February 2025. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometres (ASK), increased 5.6% year-on-year.  The load factor was 81.4% (+0.3 ppt compared to February 2025), the highest February figure on record and international demand rose 5.9% compared to February 2025. Capacity was up 5.3% year-on-year, and the load factor was 80.5% (+0.5 ppt compared to February 2025).      Domestic demand increased 6.3% compared to February 2025. Capacity increased 6.2% year-on-year. The load factor was 82.8% (+0.1 ppt compared to February 2025). Willie Walsh (above), IATA’s Director General, said: “With an RPK expansion of 6.1%, February was a strong month, showing that the fundamentals for demand growth were in place for a positive year. However, without knowing the length and intensity of the war in the Middle East, it is impossible to quantify the full impact that it will have on airline prospects. But some things are already clear. Fuel costs have risen sharply. With tight capacity and thin margins, air fares are already rising.   "Capacity deployment is also adjusting, particularly for traffic to, from, or through the Middle East, or in areas where fuel supply is an issue. Capacity growth scheduled for March, for example, has eased to 3.3% from earlier predictions of more than 5%.” Regional Breakdown - International Passenger Markets International RPK growth reached 5.9% in February compared to a year ago, with growth particularly strong in Latin America. Asia traffic benefited from the Lunar New Year travel demand. Traffic between Europe and Asia was especially robust (+14%), particularly between Asia and Spain and Italy. Asia-Pacific airlines achieved an 8.6% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 7.3% year-on-year, and the load factor was 86.6% (+1.0 ppt compared to February 2025). European carriers had a 5.0% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 4.5% year-on-year, and the load factor was 75.6% (+0.4 ppt compared to February 2025). North American carriers saw a 5.0% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 2.4% year-on-year, and the load factor was 80.9% (+2.0 ppt compared to February 2025). Middle Eastern carriers saw a 0.9% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 3.8% year-on-year, and the load factor was 79.6% (-2.2 ppt compared to February 2025). Latin American airlines saw a 13.5% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 9.3% year-on-year. The load factor was 85.0% (+3.1 ppt compared to February 2025). African airlines saw a 4.8% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 6.6% year-on-year. The load factor was 74.5% (-1.3 ppt compared to February 2025). Domestic Passenger Markets Domestic RPK rose by a robust 6.3%, driven by strong demand in Brazil and China. The capacity increase (+6.2%) was close to matching demand and the load factor was basically steady at 82.8%. Air Cargo  IATA data for February 2026 global air cargo markets revealed total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometres (CTK), rose by 11.2% compared to February 2025 levels (+11.6% for international operations), whilst capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometres (ACTK), increased by 8.5% compared to February 2025 (+9.8% for international operations). Willie said: “Air cargo demand grew 11.2% in February. Even considering the boost that February received from the movement of goods ahead of Lunar New Year, the month showed strong growth. The outbreak of war in the Middle East at the end of the month, however, makes it difficult to see how full-year performance will unfold. "Sharply rising fuel costs, fuel scarcity in parts of the world and the severe disruption to key cargo hubs in the Gulf are major shifts. While air cargo has repeatedly proven its resilience in the face of disruption, an early resolution of the war along with a normalisation of fuel supply and costs would be in everybody’s interest.” Several factors in the operating environment should be noted: The global goods trade grew by 5.2% year-on-year in January. Jet fuel prices rose 1.2% year-on-year in February, while a widening Brent–jet fuel crack spread highlighted continued volatility in refining margins. Global manufacturing sentiment strengthened in February, with the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rising to 53.1, remaining above the 50-point expansion threshold. The PMI for new export orders rose to 51.4, above the growth threshold and the highest level since July 2021, indicating positive conditions for air cargo demand. February Regional Performance Asia-Pacific airlines saw a 13.6% year-on-year growth in air cargo demand in February. Capacity increased by 10.1% year-on-year. North American carriers saw a 9.4% year-on-year increase in air cargo demand in February. Capacity increased by 5.3% year-on-year. European carriers saw a 6.9% year-on-year increase in demand for air cargo in February. Capacity increased 6.1% year-on-year. Middle Eastern carriers saw a 16.5% year-on-year increase in demand for air cargo in February. Capacity increased by 13.5% year-on-year. Latin American and Caribbean carriers saw a 0.7% year-on-year increase in demand for air cargo in February, the weakest performance of all regions. Capacity increased by 4.5% year-on-year. African airlines saw a 21.0% year-on-year increase in demand for air cargo in February, the strongest rise of all regions. Capacity increased by 17.3% year-on-year.  Trade Lane Growth Air freight volumes in February 2026 increased across all major trade corridors. aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30743.jpg Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/lexisnexis-risk-solutions-releases-cybercrime-report.html LexisNexis Risk Solutions has released its latest Cybercrime Report which reveals rapid growth in synthetic identity fraud, bot-driven attacks and account takeover activity across global markets, whilst first-party fraud remains the most reported fraud type. Above: Click here to view and download the latest LexisNexis Risk Solutions Cybercrime Report. Courtesy LexisNexis LexisNexis Risk Solutions' latest Cybercrime Report reveals key global fraud trends emerging over the past year. Derived from analysis of more than 116 billion online transactions detected through our LexisNexis Digital Identity Network in 2025, the report shows a significant 8% rise in global fraud rates driven by attacks targeting the gaming and gambling and ecommerce sectors, cost of living pressures and new emerging fraud tactics.   Key takeaways from the 2026 LexisNexis Risk Solutions Cybercrime Report: First-party fraud reigns: Customers defrauding organisations remains the leading source of fraud globally for the second year running, comprising almost two in five (38.3%) reported frauds. This varies significantly by region: Over half (51.7%) of fraud in EMEA is first-party fraud, compared to less than 10% in Latin America, where synthetic identity fraud (48.3%) is far more prevalent. Significant rise in synthetic fraud: More than one in ten frauds (11%) now involve a synthetic identity, representing an eight-fold global increase year on year and making it the fastest growing fraud type globally. Synthetic fraud represents a shift in tactics away from short-term opportunism to long-term goals, since they can take months to properly establish. Fraudsters stitch together new identities from various stolen identity attributes and use them to commit a variety of crimes. With no victim to immediately raise the alarm and high potential returns, synthetic fraud is proving attractive to fraudsters globally, particularly in LATAM (48.3% share). Agentic traffic rises 450% between January and December 2025: This traffic was mainly linked to credit card payments and logins at gaming and gambling sites. While there is no indication of malicious intent, these agents present a new challenge for fraud detection longer term, introducing a third type of digital interaction in addition to genuine human transactions and traditional bots carrying out a defined instruction set. Malicious 'bad' bots are getting better at impersonating people: Bots can now mimic genuine human actions, such as how we move a cursor around a login screen, with a high degree of plausibility to fool the latest behavioural fraud detection tools. Last year saw a significant (59%) rise in malicious bot attacks as criminals test and deploy these sophisticated tools, with significant peaks seen throughout March and April and again in August 2025. Fraudsters target ecommerce and online betting accounts: The ecommerce fraud attack rate grew 64% year on year and the attack rate at login, where fraudsters work to gain control of customer accounts, jumped 216%. Growth occurred across all regions, particularly in the US, Canada and APAC. Gaming and gambling sites experienced a notable 76% rise in the global attack rate in 2025. Stephen Topliss, vice president of fraud and identity at LexisNexis Risk Solutions, said: "Fraud continues to evolve at pace with digital innovation. While organisations are strengthening defences across channels, cybercriminal networks are scaling automation, shifting tactics and probing for any available weaknesses across the digital customer journey. Increasingly, attackers rely on advanced bots and AI-driven tools to mimic human behaviour and test defences with unprecedented speed and accuracy." Regional fraud trends highlight evolving global threat patterns North America experienced periodic spikes in ecommerce fraud activity during the year, although the overall attack rate remained steady at roughly 2.2%. Fraud attacks most frequently target login events and ecommerce platforms. EMEA's attack rate increased significantly for the first time in several years, rising 27% year on year, largely driven by account takeover attempts as fraudsters target authentication weaknesses across digital services. APAC continued to see strong digital transaction growth alongside rising fraud activity, with the attack rate increasing to 1.7%. Desktop browser attacks rose sharply as fraudsters deployed more sophisticated automation tools. LATAM fraud patterns remained diverse across industries, though the region saw growing concerns around synthetic identity fraud linked to expanding digital services and regulated online gaming markets. Topliss said: "Cybercriminals are experimenting with the same technologies that are transforming digital commerce and organisations must prepare for a future where both legitimate users and malicious actors rely on automated agents to interact online. Those that succeed must be able to confidently distinguish between humans, bots and agents as well as determining intent. "We continue to see increasing collaboration between organisations with global digital intelligence, advanced analytics and strong cross-industry partnerships. Organisations that share risk intelligence are best positioned to protect consumers and build trust in the digital economy." Methodology: The LexisNexis Risk Solutions Cybercrime Report analyses over 116 billion transactions through its LexisNexis Digital Identity Network between January and December 2025. It identifies fraud attempts during near real-time analysis of consumer interactions across the online journey, from new account creations, logins and payments to non-core transactions such as password resets and transfers. security http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30744.jpg Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/rolls-royce-to-advance-ultrafan-30-demonstrator-through-unified.html Rolls-Royce has secured €64million in funding from the European Union’s Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking (CAJU) to lead UNIFIED (Ultra Novel and Innovative Fully Integrated Engine Demonstrations), a collaborative research project supporting the development and planned ground testing of the UltraFan 30 demonstrator. Image courtesy Rolls-Royce The project will focus on maturing and advancing next-generation propulsion technologies for future narrowbody applications, supporting planned ground testing of the UltraFan 30 demonstrator in 2028 and helping establish a credible pathway toward future flight test.   Led by Rolls-Royce, the UNIFIED consortium brings together industrial, academia and research partners from across France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain and the United Kingdom.    By combining expertise across the European aerospace sector, including the UK through its association wtih Horizon Europe, the partnership will strengthen industrial capability, enhance supply chain resilience and build the technology readiness required for future narrowbody applications.    Rolls-Royce Director of Research and Technology Alan Newby said: "UNIFIED is an important step in advancing the UltraFan technologies that could underpin a future narrowbody application. The narrowbody segment is central to global aviation growth and delivering step-change improvements in efficiency in this market is key to long-term sustainability.  “Through Clean Aviation, we are accelerating technology readiness in collaboration with leading industrial, academia and research partners - strengthening the foundations required for future narrowbody opportunities.”  Clean Aviation Head of Unit Project Management María Calvo Blanco said: "We value our long-standing partnership with Rolls-Royce, which builds on previous research programmes and a focus within Clean Aviation on scalable UltraFan architecture, starting with HEAVEN and followed by UNIFIED.   “The contribution of UNIFIED to the development of ultra-high bypass ratio technology will be a decisive step towards the goal of a 30% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (compared to 2020 state-of-the-art technology) for short-medium range aircraft entering into service in 2035. In this way, project partners help advance new propulsion technologies that can play a key role in securing a sustainable and competitive aviation sector.”  The UNIFIED consortium partners and representatives from the Clean Aviation Programme Management Unit recently attended a formal kick-off meeting in the UK to share overall programme plans, objectives and progress on initial activities in the project.   The funding forms part of the European Union’s wider Clean Aviation call 3, which is investing around €945million in total research effort across selected projects to accelerate the development of sustainable aviation technologies.   The UNIFIED project participants include: Rolls-Royce, Airbus, ITP Aero, Lufthansa Technik, TU Darmstadt, Imperial College London, DLR, NLR, ONERA, INSA Lyon &  Aerospace Transmissions Technologies.    aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30745.jpg Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/scottish-space-companies-pioneer-next-gen-satellite-comms-with-spacex-launch.html Three new satellites built in Scotland have launched aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-16 mission, marking a significant step forward for UK leadership in laser communications, spacecraft manufacturing and the operation of satellite constellations. Above: AAC Clyde Space's VIREON satellite.  Courtesy AAC Clyde Space The satellites, developed by Spire Global and AAC Clyde Space in Glasgow, are backed by UK Space Agency funding delivered through the European Space Agency’s Pioneer Programme, which helps emerging UK space companies become new mission providers. The Pioneer Programme falls within the programme of Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES).  The government has identified satellite communications as a priority area for further support, due to its increasingly important role in both civil and defence applications, from delivering broadband services to remote areas to providing secure connectivity for military operations. As part of this commitment, the UK Space Agency will invest more than £600 million in satellite communications research & development over the coming years. Optical inter-satellite links tested by Spire Global UK One of the satellites was launched by Spire Global UK to test an innovative optical inter-satellite link (ISL) payload. Designed to demonstrate high-speed laser crosslinks on a compact 6U platform, the mission aims to significantly reduce data latency for aviation, maritime, weather and space-weather services. The technology, once validated, will support near-real-time global data delivery across nanosatellite constellations. AAC Clyde Space demonstrates UK’s high-volume production capability As part of the xSPANCION project, two satellites were developed by AAC Clyde Space, in collaboration with several UK partners, including Bright Ascension Ltd., the University of Strathclyde, the Satellite Applications Catapult, Alden Legal and D-Orbit UK. These satellites represent the first in-orbit demonstration of the UK’s emerging high-volume, low-cost satellite production and operations capability.  The satellites will form part of VIREON, AAC Clyde Space’s new constellation designed to enhance decision-making across agriculture, forestry and environmental management, delivering space-enabled insights to governments, industry and environmental organisations. Supporting growth and innovation in Scotland and across the UK Together, the missions strengthen British capability across optical ISL technologies, volume manufacturing, advanced operations platforms and high-skilled jobs across the UK supply chain. They also demonstrate Glasgow’s position as the leading city for small satellite manufacturing in Europe. Henny Sands, Head of Telecommunications at the UK Space Agency, said: "This Transporter-16 launch marks an important step forward for the UK’s ambitions in next-generation satellite communications. By supporting both breakthrough optical technologies and high-volume production methods, we are enabling British companies to lead in the markets that will define the future of global connectivity." Companies can also apply to an open funding call from the UK Space Agency’s Connectivity in Low Earth Orbit (C-LEO) programme, with £30 million currently available to support the development of new components and technologies for satellite constellations, with a further funding call due to open later this year. space http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30746.jpg Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/esm-2-set-to-power-artemis-ii-crew-to-the-moon.html As the world prepares for the launch of Artemis II - the first crewed mission to the Moon in over 50 years - the Orion European Service Module (ESM-2) is fully integrated, fuelled and 'go' for flight. Above: Pléiades Neo image. SLS rocket with Orion ESM at its launch pad at Kennedy Space Center for its upcoming launch of the Artemis II mission. ©Airbus DS 2026 The ESM is built by Airbus on behalf of the European Space Agency (ESA). Functioning as the powerhouse of NASA’s Orion spacecraft, the ESM-2 will provide propulsion, power, thermal control and the vital air and water needed for the four astronauts to survive in Space. The mission, scheduled to launch from Kennedy Space Center, will send NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Jeremy Hansen on a 10-day journey around the Moon. Unlike the uncrewed Artemis I test, this mission places human lives directly in the hands of European engineering. "The transition from Artemis I to Artemis II is the shift from a test vehicle to a living space," said Marc Steckling, Head of Earth Observation, Science and Space Exploration at Airbus. "When Reid Wiseman and his crew throttle up the ESM’s engines to leave Earth orbit, they are also trusting the work of hundreds of engineers across ten European nations to take them to the Moon and bring them home safely." While Artemis I proved the structural integrity of the vehicle, Artemis II marks the debut of the ESM’s active life support capabilities. Breathing and drinking: The ESM-2 carries 90 kg of oxygen and 240 kg of drinking water, which it will pump into the crew module to keep the astronauts alive. Thermal Control: As the spacecraft faces the extreme temperature swings of deep space, the ESM’s active thermal control system will regulate the cabin temperature, keeping the crew comfortable. Power Generation: The module’s signature four-bladed solar arrays will generate 11.2 kW of power - enough to supply the spacecraft and the new high-speed communication systems. Propulsion: 33 engines onboard the ESM to provide thrust and propulsion to manoeuvre Orion to its destination. Artemis II introduces ground-breaking technologies that were not present on previous flights, heavily relying on the ESM’s precision. High-Speed Laser Communication (O2O): The ESM provides the stable power required for the new Orion Optical Communications System (O2O). This laser-based technology will transmit data back to Earth at up to 260 megabits per second, enabling the crew to stream 4K ultra-high-definition video of the Moon in near real-time-a leap forward from the grainy footage of the Apollo era.   Manual Piloting Demonstration: The crew will manually fly the Orion spacecraft during a ‘proximity operations demonstration’ in Earth orbit. Commander Reid Wiseman and Pilot Victor Glover will use hand controllers to direct the ESM’s 24 reaction control thrusters, testing how the 13-ton module performs under human command before embarking on the lunar trajectory. Exactly how close the Artemis II crew will fly to the Moon will depend on when they launch. The Moon will be in a different spot for each of the possible launch dates and the exact distance will change accordingly, ranging from 6,400 to 9,000 kilometres above the lunar surface. This is tens of thousands of kilometres closer than any human has been in more than 50 years.  When Orion flies behind the Moon, the Artemis II crew is expected to break the distance record set by Apollo 13 for the farthest any humans have ever been from Earth. Airbus is already looking beyond this mission. ESM-3 in 2027 will test rendezvous and docking capabilities between Orion and commercial spacecraft needed to land astronauts on the Moon. Also, in 2028 ESM-4, destined to support the lunar landing of Artemis IV, is currently undergoing final integration at Kennedy Space Center (KSC). The ESM-4 was delivered to KSC in late 2025, while ESM-5 and ESM-6 are currently in production in Airbus’ Bremen cleanrooms with shipments slated for 2027 and 2028, thus ensuring a steady cadence for NASA’s long-term lunar presence. The ESM is a cylinder approximately four metres high and wide. It has a distinctive drive system comprising one main engine (a repurposed Space Shuttle OMS engine), eight auxiliary engines and 24 smaller thrusters for attitude control. It is built by Airbus as the prime contractor for the European Space Agency (ESA), with final assembly in Bremen, Germany. space http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30747.jpg Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/skyports-partners-with-hochtief-on-drone-aerial-surveying.html Skyports Drone Services has partnered with HOCHTIEF to provide automated BVLOS 'drone-in-a-box' aerial surveying of the Rheinbrücke Leverkusen bridge construction site, on the River Rhein, north of Cologne, Germany. Image courtesy Skyports / HOCHTIEF    In an innovative addition to the deployment, Skyports is overseeing its drone missions from its Remote Operation Centre (ROC) in Madrid, Spain, negating the need for on-site pilots, providing significant flexibility and efficiencies. For the deployment Skyports has installed a fixed 'drone-in-a-box' system at the construction site. Conducting weekly automated BVLOS drone surveys, the survey data collected helps HOCHTIEF to build a layered picture of how the build is progressing week on week. The bridge is currently under construction and is expected to be completed by 2028, requiring extensive earthworks, the removal of the old bridge and new construction on both the east and west banks.  Previously, progress monitoring of the construction site was mostly manual and subjective. Some drone surveys had been conducted, but these were limited, infrequent, and required on-site personnel. With advancements in drone technology and Skyports' expertise, this process has now been fully automated - eliminating the need for on-site pilots or access. To provide detailed next-level data, the data collected by the drone is being processed by DroneDeploy, providing both 2D and 3D survey outputs for progress monitoring reports. Providing a detailed 3D model of the bridge each week, it allows HOCHTIEF to track construction progress and monitor any occurrences, helping to identify any issues early and reduce the chance of overruns or delays to the project. Alex Brown, CEO, Skyports Drone Services, said: “Large infrastructure projects are incredibly intricate and complex, with construction companies under pressure to deliver on time and on budget. With automated drone-in-a-box surveys like this we’re providing alternate perspectives and deep level data insights that can improve resource planning and catch any potential issues early, helping keep projects on track. Piloting the drone remotely also means we are creating operational efficiencies, improving cost and data outputs for our customers.” Klaus Grüttner, Executive Vice President Europe, HOCHTIEF Infrastructure, said: “By partnering with Skyports, we have a leading innovator in drone technology at our side to drive our complex construction projects. This cooperation enables us to monitor the construction progress seamlessly and cost-efficiently and to provide targeted support in billing, especially in earthworks. In addition, we benefit from precise surveying data that supports a continuous target/actual comparison and the optimization of our construction processes.” aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30732.jpg Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/james-heappey-joins-nordic-air-defence-board.html Former British Minister of State for the Armed Forces from 2020 to 2024 The Rt Hon Major James Heappey has joined the board of Swedish defence tech startup Nordic Air Defence (NAD), developers of the K100XR drone interceptor for civilian and military use. Image courtesy NAD The interceptor is designed to counter low-flying, low cost drones that cause millions of dollars worth of damage to expensive systems. Also joining the board is NAD’s head of product Nicholas Högasten. After a military career spanning nine years, Heappey turned to politics, serving as the Conservative MP for Wells between 2015 and 2024. During his tenure, he held positions within the Ministry of Defence as both Minister of State for the Armed Forces and Minister for Defence Procurement. Following his exit from frontline politics in 2024, Heappey now holds multiple advisory positions at the likes of Serco, Helsing and AECOM, as well as being the Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at M&C Saatchi World Services. Heappey’s mandate at Nordic Air Defence is to strengthen the company’s strategic positioning across European defence procurement ecosystems, spanning the United Kingdom, EU member states and relevant NATO structures. In this role, he will guide Nordic Air Defence’s engagement with European procurement systems, and provide strategic advice on procurement pathways, innovation channels and accelerated acquisition mechanisms. He will also contribute to strengthening Nordic Air Defence’s position within emerging European defence acceleration initiatives and support the company’s long-term market entry strategy across key European jurisdictions. His appointment is intended to accelerate Nordic Air Defence’s integration into formal European procurement tracks, pilot programmes and strategic defence partnerships, reinforcing the company’s ability to participate in and contribute to the evolving European defence landscape. Also joining the NAD Board is Nicholas Högasten, who currently serves as Head of Product at Nordic Air Defence and leads the development and product strategy for the company’s next-generation air defence systems. In this role, he is responsible for translating operational requirements into scalable, mission-ready solutions, guiding product architecture and ensuring the company’s technology roadmap aligns with evolving defence needs and deployment realities. His appointment to the board brings deep expertise in defence technology, sensing systems and complex product development. Nicholas’s hands-on experience leading advanced engineering programmes strengthens the board’s ability to guide technology strategy, support the transition from development to scaled production and ensure Nordic Air Defence continues to deliver effective, operationally relevant capabilities as it grows. NAD Board Member James Heappey: “It is energising to be involved with a company that is driving frontline innovation in Europe at a time when it is needed more than ever. The war in Ukraine has shown with absolute clarity the urgency of accelerating capability development and ensuring that the right technologies reach the frontline without delay. Speed and adaptability are absolutely essential.  "For early-stage and rapidly growing companies like NAD, one of the greatest barriers to progress is navigating procurement systems that are often far more accessible to large, established primes. Ensuring that innovators can get their foot in the door is the only way we can deliver the pace of innovation required to meet the evolving threat environment and ensure Europe’s armed forces have access to the most effective capabilities when they need them most.” Nordic Air Defence CEO Karl Rosander: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome James to the Board. It’s rare to bring in someone with such deep, first-hand recent experience from senior leadership roles within a modern defence ministry, and who truly understands how modern defence systems are developed, procured, and deployed under real operational pressure. His perspective and credibility, drawing on his active duty in the British Army, will have an immediate and meaningful impact on our ability to navigate complex procurement environments and engage with the right stakeholders at the highest levels.” Nordic Air Defence (NAD) is a Stockholm-headquartered company developing high tech defensive solutions for both civilian and military use. NAD is a true hardware-software company with expertise in electronics, mechanical design, embedded systems, software engineering and AI, with a team that includes veterans from Anduril, Palantir, Teledyne FLIR, Kratos, FOI (the Swedish Defence Research Agency), Acast, Zipline, SAAB and Quantum Systems. defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30733.jpg Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/british-army-retire-land-rover-fleet.html British soldiers will use a new fleet of thousands of modern vehicles, following the start of the retirement of the iconic Land Rover fleet earlier this month, after 70 years of service. Image courtesy Defence Imagery / Photographer Corporal Paul Squires / Copyright UK MoD © Crown copyright 2025 The retirement, which began Friday 20th March, marks the end of an era for the vehicle that has been a cornerstone of military operations for more than 70 years.   As the Army looks to the future, plans are now underway to identify the next generation of light mobility vehicles, with the first new vehicles are expected to be in the hands of soldiers by 2030.    Simple, dependable and a workhorse of the British military, the Land Rover has been used for a range of duties, including patrol, command liaison and transportation of equipment and personnel.  A special commemorative event was held on Thursday 19th March, at Bovington, home to the Armoured Fighting Vehicle School, to honour the Land Rover’s legacy and outline the Army’s vision for its successor. The event brought together Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP, military personnel and industry, who showcased modern vehicles that could replace the Land Rover.   Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard said: "The Land Rover and British Army share an incredible history and the image of a Landy in Army livery is truly iconic.   "As we look ahead to the future of light mobility vehicles, it is fitting to pay tribute to this extraordinary fleet that has served our Armed Forces so faithfully.  "I’m firing the starting gun on the replacement vehicle competition, seeking to put a modern vehicle in the hands of our personnel." Land Rovers have been a trusted workhorse for the British Armed Forces since their widespread adoption in the 1950s. In 2025, more than 5,000 Land Rovers remained in service across the UK military, a testament to their durability and versatility.  The retirement of the Land Rover marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the British Army’s mobility capabilities. While the Land Rover’s legacy will endure, the Army is now focused on ensuring its personnel are equipped with a modern, technologically advanced fleet to support future operations.  The Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV) programme aims to identify an enduring successor to the Land Rover, ensuring the Army’s continued operational effectiveness and the programme will formally launch in due course. LMV will offer opportunities to British-based businesses through vehicle support and maintenance, helping make defence an engine for growth. Over the decades, several bespoke Land Rover models were developed exclusively for military use, including:  Series IIA Ambulance – Designed to carry four stretchers and a medic.  Series IIA Pink Panther – Designed for use in the desert by the SAS, it was used for special operation missions and long-distance reconnaissance.  Amphibious SIIA 109” – A prototype of a vehicle that could be used for sea landings.  V8 Centaur Multi-Role Half-Track – Created with a track taken from the Scorpion light tank, it represented an attempt to merge road vehicle with a tank. defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30734.jpg Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/rfa-lyme-bay-gets-mine-hunting-tech-upgrade.html The Royal Navy is stepping up its mine hunting capabilities with new cutting-edge uncrewed equipment being added to RFA Lyme Bay in the coming days. Above: RFA Lyme Bay on exercise in 2025.  Image courtesy Royal Navy / PO Phot Jim Gibson RNR The high-tech equipment will be able to detect, identify and neutralise threats and is part of the Royal Navy’s transition to a ‘hybrid navy’. The move comes after RFA Lyme Bay was brought to heightened readiness several weeks ago. After being fitted with the technology, Lyme Bay will be able to store, prepare, deploy and recover a variety of autonomous and crewless technology, from underwater drones to mine hunting boats – acting as a crewed ‘mothership’ for drone tech. First Sea Lord, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, said: “RFA Lyme Bay preparing for a possible mine hunting mothership role is a perfect example of how we are building a Hybrid Navy – one where crewed ships and cutting-edge uncrewed systems work together seamlessly to keep our people safe and our seas secure. “Mine countermeasures have always been vital work, and by harnessing autonomous technology we are ensuring the Royal Navy remains at the forefront of underwater defence. I am proud of everyone involved in making this capability a reality.” Captain Mark Colley, the Commanding Officer of Lyme Bay, said: "The RFA is a crucial support arm of the Royal Navy and being able to act as an MCM mothership once again shows how we can adapt to the operational demand where needed." The Royal Fleet Auxiliary Bay-class ship will be fitted in Gibraltar to be ready to be the Royal Navy’s mothership for an array of hi-tech mine countermeasures (MCM) kit. The RFA plays an important role in supporting Royal Navy operations across the globe and turning into a command centre for the innovative technology showcases another way the service can contribute to operations. With a plug-and-play Command and Control system, the technology can be deployed where needed and the RFA ship makes an ideal base for future MCM operations. While at the Rock, Lyme Bay will also undergo inspections to ensure she is ready for more time at sea. Captain Mark Colley, the Commanding Officer of Lyme Bay, added: “The RFA is a crucial support arm of the Royal Navy and being able to act as an MCM mothership once again shows how we can adapt to the operational demand where needed. “I am proud of the work my ship’s company has done to prepare RFA Lyme Bay and be ready to embark this kit. Having recently returned to high readiness, we have been put through our paces but I know we are ready to support this autonomous uncrewed kit so as to play an important role in its use.” The Royal Navy’s use of autonomous and uncrewed mine hunting kit comes as it continues to forge ahead with its bold ambitions of a Hybrid Navy – where crewed and uncrewed systems operate seamlessly together on the front line. defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30735.jpg Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/lockheed-martin-joins-mtc-as-tier-1-member.html Lockheed Martin has joined the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) as a Tier 1 member which will see it collaborate on core research, capabilities and investments and play a key role in managing projects that address some of the pressing challenges being faced by defence industry supply chains. Image courtesy MTC Sir Rick Thompson, KCB, CBE, Managing Director of Defence at the Manufacturing Technology Centre, said: "Lockheed Martin joining the MTC as a Tier 1 member sends a clear signal about the strength of the UK’s defence industrial base and our innovation ecosystem as it continues to grow in response to an increasingly uncertain world. "By working with partners like Lockheed Martin, we can help companies across the supply chain adopt the technologies they need to compete, scale and seize the opportunities created by the government’s Defence Industrial Strategy as a driver of growth." Specific projects conducted in collaboration with the MTC will focus on delivering scalable, adaptable and agile manufacturing with reduced costs and lead times for customers. The efforts will concentrate on additive manufacturing, automation, augmentation and digital integration, addressing common challenges such as accelerating the delivery of new technologies to the front line. The membership is also intended to accelerate SME technology readiness levels, helping emerging concepts progress more rapidly toward deployable solutions. The effort aligns with Lockheed Martin’s SME Unite initiative which has grown to include over 180 British companies. Headquartered in London, Lockheed Martin UK - the UK arm of Lockheed Martin Corporation - contributes around £2 billion to the national economy each year and sustaining around 26,000 British jobs: 2,000 directly and 24,000 more across 800 supply chain partners, more than 500 of which are SME businesses. defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30736.jpg Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/hms-active-completes-float-off-feat.html Building on the momentum of February's dual milestone event at Babcock’s Rosyth site, the Type 31 frigate programme has reached another significant stage, with HMS Active completing the float-off process. Image courtesy DE&S Engineers from Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) and the Royal Navy supported the float-off of the Inspiration Class frigate, which is a modern, efficient and low-risk method for a vessel of this size to transition to the next phase of her build programme. Last month, the second in class vessel was moved from Babcock's Rosyth shipyard to a deep-water location where a barge was submerged beneath her and she entered the water for the first time.  The Malin Augustea barge has been used for frigate float-off operations for both HMS Active and the first ship in the Type 31 class, HMS Venturer. Use of the barge is also operated in the same capacity for the Type 26 programme. HMS Active will now undergo further outfit work before test and commissioning takes place. Steve Ranyard, DE&S Type 31 Team Leader, said: “The float-off of HMS Active is another landmark moment for the Type 31 programme and a proud day for everyone involved in her delivery. This milestone reflects the pace and professionalism of the entire programme team at Rosyth and across the UK supply chain, as we continue to make real, tangible progress towards delivering a capable and versatile new frigate for the Royal Navy.” This latest milestone follows the dual celebration at Rosyth at the end of February, when HMS Active rolled out of the purpose-built Venturer Building Assembly Hall in a spectacular evening ceremony. On the same day, steel was cut on HMS Bulldog, the fourth vessel in the class. Commodore Stephen Roberts, T31 Programme Senior Responsible Owner (SRO), Royal Navy, said: “HMS Active will serve as a formidable defender of our national security and a powerful asset for NATO in an increasingly dangerous world. For the Royal Navy the float off provides a visual opportunity to highlight the pride and importance of having world class ships to protect the nation from those who would wish to do us harm.” The Type 31 programme is a significant driver of economic growth across Scotland and the wider United Kingdom, sustaining 2,500 highly skilled jobs, with 1,250 directly employed at Babcock in Rosyth and a further 1,250 across the UK supply chain. The programme delivers on the government's Plan for Change, supporting economic growth through defence investment while strengthening national security. The five Inspiration Class frigates will form a key part of the Royal Navy's surface fleet, undertaking missions including interception, intelligence gathering, defence engagement and humanitarian support. When complete, all five ships are scheduled to be in service by the early 2030s. defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30737.jpg Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/funding-available-to-advance-uk-space-tech.html UK businesses can apply for a share of up to £14.7 million in funding from the UK Space Agency, unlocking new opportunities to develop cutting-edge space technologies and strengthen the UK’s industrial capability. Above: Bristol-based SME iCOMAT used GSTP to demonstrate an advanced composite manufacturing process for spacecraft structures. Courtesy UK Space Agency  The funding is available through the European Space Agency’s (ESA) General Support Technology Programme (GSTP), its flagship programme for maturing new space technologies from early-stage research to flight-ready demonstration.  This call follows strong demand from industry and new evidence showing that UK participation in GSTP is delivering significant economic and technological benefits. The UK has been involved in the programme for more than 30 years and committed £46 million at ESA’s 2025 Ministerial Council, helping organisations develop critical home-grown technologies, compete internationally, and secure future work from ESA and commercial markets.  Lord David Willetts, Chair of UK Space Agency, said: "We are very pleased to be providing this further funding for new technologies across the space sector. The evidence shows this programme provides a real boost to individual companies and the wider economy." A UK Space Agency impact analysis of 44 GSTP projects (31% of funding, 2019–2024) found strong benefits for UK industry, especially SMEs. Projects advanced an average of 2.28 Technology Readiness Levels, with some progressing up to four levels in a year. TRLs indicate how close a technology is to real-world use, the higher the number, the more developed it is.  The sample also generated £24.6 million in additional revenue, delivered a 116% return on public investment and created 113 new jobs, the majority within SMEs. Many participating companies also went on to attract private investment.  GSTP funding is helping UK companies scale and compete internationally. Bristol-based SME iCOMAT used the programme to demonstrate an advanced composite manufacturing process for spacecraft structures. The company developed a prototype that was 25% lighter and 30% stronger than conventional designs, boosting its credibility, attracting customers, and enabling £18 million in private investment.  Space Forge has also benefited, using GSTP support to develop a reusable re-entry heat shield, a key technology for returning high-value materials manufactured in space. The funding enabled design, prototyping and early testing ahead of flight trials, helping the company secure £12.3 million in private investment, build a UK supply chain, and create 20 skilled jobs.  The analysis also shows that GSTP is strengthening collaboration across the UK space sector. Nearly three-quarters (73%) of organisations formed new partnerships through the programme, including valuable links between SMEs and major system integrators. Innovation levels were consistently high: 90% of SME-led projects developed novel technologies, while 72% identified applications beyond the space sector. Overall, the programme supported 23 technologies unique to the UK, with several expected to be first-of-their-kind in Europe or even globally.  Demand for GSTP funding has grown rapidly, with the UK’s previous allocation fully committed ahead of schedule and no new calls since March 2024. This new £7 million call, part of the wider £14.7 million package, is expected to be strongly welcomed by industry. Updated rules will introduce co-funding requirements and a fixed-value framework to maximise value for money while continuing to support strategically important capabilities.  Alongside this, a separate call will invite UK organisations to bid for £7.7 million in fully funded ESA technology contracts. These opportunities are open to organisations of all sizes, including universities and non-space companies, helping to broaden participation and secure high-value ESA work for the UK. Read more about GSTP and the application process. space http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30738.jpg Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/jfd-appoints-adrian-capner-as-managing-director-in-australia.html JFD Global has appointed Adrian Capner as its new Managing Director of JFD Australia, who will take up his new role on 1st April 2026.   Image courtesy JFD   Adrian (above) succeeds Cathy Falkiner who has led JFD Australia for the past five years through a sustained period of growth, positioning JFD as a trusted supplier to the Royal Australian Navy and Australia’s defence industry.   He joins JFD after a naval career spanning more than 35 years and most recently as Australia’s Naval Adviser to the United Kingdom at the Australian High Commission in London. Prior to this, he held senior executive roles including Director of the Navy and Army Aviation Acquisition Project Office and as leader of the MRH90 Sustainment Remediation Project.   Dr Allan du Toit AM, Chair JFD Australia, said: "We thank Cathy for her dedication during her time at JFD. She has had a significant impact and leaves a great legacy for the team to build on as we continue to grow our business in Australia. We wish her all the best in her next chapter.   "As we now look ahead, we are pleased to have Adrian at the helm and look forward to his future-focused approach and excellent strategic perspective."   JFD Global Managing Director, Rob Hales, shared: "We are very pleased to welcome Adrian at JFD. His depth of experience and strong emphasis on trusted relationships will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our presence in Australia and across our global defence partnerships. Adrian’s leadership will play an important role in shaping the next phase of our journey."   Adrian will be based at JFD Australia’s diving and hyperbaric Centre of Excellence in Caringbah, Sydney.   Adrian will be actively involved with JFD’s local, regional and global teams to further enhance and diversify the company’s role as a key sovereign capability provider, including Australia’s established, trusted and mission ready submarine rescue system. defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30726.jpg Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/bombardier-delivers-first-global-8000-to-netjets.html Bombardier has delivered its first Global 8000 aircraft to fleet launch customer NetJets. Above: (left to right) NetJets’ Patrick Gallagher and Bombardier’s David Murray celebrate the delivery of NetJets’ first Global 8000 business jet. Courtesy Bombardier  The delivery took place at Bombardier’s Laurent Beaudoin Completion Centre in the presence of employees, NetJets leadership and special guests. With its range of 8,000 NM (16.75 hours) and a top speed of Mach 0.95 (627 miles per hour), the Bombardier Global 8000 business jet expands route options, while allowing NetJets customers to reach their destinations faster and in greater comfort than ever before. With this most recent addition, NetJets plans to build a 24-strong fleet of Global 8000 aircraft and will be working with Bombardier to upgrade its entire in-service Global 7500 fleet to Global 8000 jets. NetJets could subsequently grow its fleet through a series of options that could be exercised progressively over the coming years. Éric Martel, President and CEO, Bombardier, said: “The Global 8000 is redefining the business aviation landscape with its unmatched performance, signature smooth ride and innovative design, and we are thrilled to be providing our longtime, valued partner NetJets with its first Global 8000 aircraft. With this landmark first delivery, NetJets’ clients will now be able to experience the revolutionary performance attributes and unmatched luxury the Global 8000 delivers – the most impressive business jet in the skies.” Patrick Gallagher, President, NetJets Aviation, said: “Our long-standing partnership with Bombardier has been built on a shared vision of excellence and innovation in business aviation. The Global 8000 is the ultimate expression of that partnership and we are proud to be the first to bring this remarkable aircraft to our fleet. The range and features of the Global 8000 aircraft perfectly align with NetJets’ commitment to offering safety, service and access at an extraordinary level and empowering owners to do more and miss less.” The Global 8000 is the only true four-zone business jet to offer a range of 8,000 NM (16.75 hours), enabling nonstop travel between more city pairs than ever before. In addition to its long-range capabilities, the aircraft remains uniquely agile, with takeoff and landing performance comparable to that of a light jet. Its advanced wing design featuring leading-edge slats enable passengers to land at up to 30% more airports – the equivalent of more than 2,000 destinations – than its closest rival. Inside, the Global 8000 aircraft sets an extremely high bar in terms of comfort. The business jet features the longest seated length in its class along with signature cabin features such as Bombardier’s Pũr Air System, Soleil circadian lighting system and the lowest cabin altitude in production, all designed to maximise passenger comfort and prevent the effects of jet lag. aviation http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30727.jpg Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/de-s-awards-five-providers-nine-contracts-to-support-3-000-military-and-police-boats.html Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), part of the Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) National Armaments Director Group, has awarded £283.5 million worth of contracts to maintain and support approximately 3,000 boats across the UK Armed Forces and MoD Police, creating and safeguarding over 100 skilled jobs across England, Scotland and Wales. Image courtesy DE&S Nine contracts under the Boats In-Service Support programme (BISS26) have been awarded to five suppliers: Babcock, Serco and three UK small and medium-sized enterprises in Golden Arrow Marine, UK Docks and Griffon Marine Ltd.  The BISS26 contract holders are:  Golden Arrow Marine (Lot 1) UK Docks (Lots 2, 3 and 6) Griffon (Lots 4 and 8) Babcock (Lots 5 and 9) Serco (Lot 7)  Contracts run from 1st April 2026 to 31st March 2033. The contracts support the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Fleet Auxiliary, MoD Police and training programmes including the Combined Cadet Force and Joint Services Adventurous Sail Training Centre. The boats perform a wide range of operational tasks from policing and boarding operations to supporting the UK's Continuous At-Sea Deterrent. The contracts will create and safeguard more than 100 roles across the UK, including apprenticeships, engineering positions, manufacturing and maritime support functions. UK Docks alone will reopen two docks on Teesside and support redevelopment at Victoria Quays in Gosport, with further work planned in Plymouth, Cornwall and across the North-east. Additional activity near major naval bases at Portsmouth, Devonport, Clyde and Gibraltar will strengthen UK industrial resilience over the long term. Pete Lagden, Team Leader for the DE&S Boats Team, said: "BISS26 delivers critical capabilities to the UK Armed Forces on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. These contracts ensure the continued availability of around 3,000 boats – assets that are essential for everything from patrolling and interception to supporting the Continuous At-Sea Deterrent. Awarding contracts to five providers, including three UK SMEs, reflects our commitment to supporting British industry and contributing to national prosperity." This investment directly supports the Defence Industrial Strategy and the Government's Plan for Change mission to kickstart economic growth, raising living standards and creating good jobs in every part of the United Kingdom. Adam Egeland-Jensen MBE, Royal Navy Boats In-Service Capability Manager, said: "BISS26 is a fantastic example of the ongoing strong collaboration between Defence and UK industry can deliver. Working with five partners, including well established SMEs, we have secured the capability our people need — from day-to-day maritime operations to supporting the Continuous At-Sea Deterrent. With at least £250 million flowing exclusively through UK-owned businesses, this is something DE&S and MoD should be genuinely proud of. It also puts us in a very strong position to work with new partners on identifying the capabilities we will need for the future beyond 2033." Family-run UK Docks has been awarded three of the nine contracts manufacturing workboats and providing support to the Royal Navy, Royal Fleet Auxiliary and MoD Police. Jonathan Wilson, Managing Director, UK Docks, said: “This is fantastic news for the company and our staff, who have been building a reputation for successfully servicing MoD contracts for a number of years. All three contracts are related to specific classes of MoD boats with specific end users and will provide a sustained demand for our workforce for at least five years, possibly seven.  “They will safeguard existing jobs, create new ones, and ensure an important part of the defence sector benefits UK businesses and organisations. We’re very proud to be part of a marine industry that has shown that the necessary skills and expertise can be provided by a British company and British workforce and we’re looking forward to delivering the highest standards of service and maintenance.” Phil Craig, Managing Director of Marine Programmes, Babcock, said: “Babcock has supported the UK Ministry of Defence for many years and our role in sustaining the capability, readiness and availability of the Royal Navy's assets remains critical.  "Securing the contracts for the P2000 Coastal Force vessels and the training boats used to develop officer cadets reflects the trust placed in our people and the deep expertise we’ve built in delivering through life support to Defence.  "These platforms play a vital part in preparing the next generation of naval leaders and supporting activity around our coastline. We are proud to contribute to that mission, and we look forward to working closely with our partners to continue delivering the high standards of service that the Royal Navy depends on.” Mark Downer, CEO, Griffon Marine, said: “The award of this contract underlines Griffon Marine’s market-leading credentials within the small boat sector and reflects the trust placed in us by the Ministry of Defence. It demonstrates that our team’s dedication, innovation and commitment are consistently delivering world-class solutions in support of the UK’s Armed Forces.”  Paul Dean, Director of Business Development at Golden Arrow Marine, said: “Golden Arrow Marine is proud to have secured an element of the BISS26 contract for the UK Ministry of Defence, Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) team, to provide in-service support for UK Strategic Command boats. This award reflects the strength of our capabilities and our commitment to supporting the UK’s defence maritime infrastructure. We look forward to commencing our support from April 2026 and working closely with the MoD to ensure these vital assets continue to be maintained to the highest standards. “Securing this contract has already created 12 new roles within our newly established Golden Arrow Technologies division and sustained a further 10 positions, supporting our continued growth and long-term commitment to the UK and global defence and security sector.”  Anthony Kirby, Serco Group plc Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are proud to be supporting this specialised fleet of marine assets, which are vital for operational and strategic effectiveness and personnel deployments on coastal or near-shore environments on behalf of the British Army and the Ministry of Defence’s Boats Team." James Melia, DE&S Boats Acquisition Lead, said: "These boats are essential enablers for multiple military users and the new contracts ensure that our crews will continue to rely on safe and dependable equipment. We are proud to be investing in British companies, British workers and British skills." Kirsty Edwards, DE&S Project Manager, said: "It's been a challenging and fast paced project but the team's strong ethic has enabled us to deliver on time, to budget and to quality requirements, maintaining over 90% availability for our end users throughout." defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30728.jpg Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/getac-launches-commandcore.html Getac has announced the launch of its CommandCore rugged drone control solution. Above: CommandCore offers extensive customisation options for optimal operational efficiency, directly supporting Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) in a wide range of use cases spanning land, sea and air. Courtesy Getac CommandCore enables clients to combine Getac’s proven rugged hardware with industry-specific accessories, payloads and software based on their individual needs and use case. This provides a comprehensive UAV/USV/UGV control solution that is fully adaptable and can be tailored to suit a wide range of challenging environments and operational scenarios, such as those found in the defence, public safety and utilities industries. At the heart of CommandCore is Getac’s Ground Control Station (GCS), which serves as a centralised, mission-ready hub, designed for real-time data processing, seamless drone control in extreme conditions, and overall management of operational parameters. Customers can choose between a number of different Getac devices depending on their GCS needs, including the ZX80 fully rugged Android tablet, UX10 fully rugged Windows tablet, S510 rugged Windows laptop, B360 fully rugged Windows laptop and X600 fully rugged Windows workstation.  The form factor of the GCS can also be customised for maximum flexibility. Options include a fully integrated design with built-in drone controls and an accessory-type design that lets users separate the Getac device from externally housed drone controls as needed. Additional form factors include an office dock design and a comprehensive suitcase design with dual display for use as part of mobile command and control activity. CommandCore integrates smoothly with diverse drone ecosystems, supporting interoperability with third-party technologies and long-term collaborative system evolution. Getac’s GCS is available in both Android and Windows options, while the stable, high performance computing platform supports real-time, mission-critical operations in demanding situations and environments.  The CommandCore solution facilitates seamless drone operations in extreme terrain and/or high-pressure situations, like those regularly encountered in the defence, public safety and utilities industries: Defence: Supports intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) activity from both mobile and semi-fixed command posts, informing mission planning and execution strategies in real-time across land, sea and air. Given its robust capabilities, CommandCore is uniquely positioned to support the complex requirements of Army aviation and integrated air defense systems, providing operators with the reliable control and data visualisation necessary for critical tactical operations.   Public safety: Drone reconnaissance now plays an integral role in disaster response operations ranging from fires and floods to emergency search and rescue. CommandCore lets first responders gather critical information quickly and efficiently, either from a nearby mobile command vehicle or directly from the scene using a handheld GCS.    Utilities: Enables utilities professionals to remotely inspect large-scale (critical) infrastructure and assets such as powerlines, substations, pipelines and railways using waypoint guidance from a centralised operations centre. Beyond large-scale monitoring, CommandCore delivers the reliable remote control needed to rapidly assess hard-to-reach rural areas, minimising the need for crews to physically navigate high-voltage or dangerous terrain.  James Hwang, President, Getac Technology Corporation, said: “As the use of drones becomes increasingly widespread throughout numerous industries around the world, demand for comprehensive remote control solutions is also growing significantly. CommandCore answers this demand, providing professionals who work in challenging environments every day with a highly customisable rugged control solution they can rely on to get the job done when it matters most.” defence http://www.adsadvance.co.uk/media/images/articles/30729.jpg Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT