Tag: Ministry of Defence

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 14 December 2023.

UK signs international Treaty with Japan and Italy for a future combat air programme that aims to develop an innovative stealth fighter with supersonic capability and equipped with cutting-edge technology.

• World-leading stealth future fighter aims to improve military capability, prosperity and strategic benefits for all three countries.
• UK-based headquarters will support hundreds of jobs, with initial leadership positions
  for Japan and Italy.
• Project will support future Indo-Pacific stability and wider global security.

The UK has signed an international Treaty with Japan and Italy for a future combat air programme that aims to develop an innovative stealth fighter with supersonic capability and equipped with cutting-edge technology.

The treaty marks a key stage of the landmark Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) and the headquarters of the programme will be based in Britain.

This combat air aircraft, due to take to the skies by 2035, aims to harness next-generation technologies and become one of the world’s most advanced, interoperable, adaptable and connected fighter jets in service globally. The programme is expected to create highly-skilled jobs in the UK and in partner countries over the next decade and beyond.

The supersonic stealth jet will boast a powerful radar that can provide 10,000 times more data than current systems, giving a battle-winning advantage.

Within the UK, the effort is being led by BAE Systems, in close partnership with Rolls-Royce, Leonardo UK and MBDA UK – as well as hundreds of companies in the supply chain from across the country. Together, they are working closely with lead companies from Japan and Italy to progress the design and development of this aircraft.

Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps said:

Our world-leading combat aircraft programme aims to be crucial to global security and we continue to make hugely positive progress toward delivery of the new jets to our respective air forces in 2035.

The UK-based headquarters will also see us make important decisions collaboratively and at pace, working with our close partners Italy and Japan, and our impressive defence industries, to deliver an outstanding aircraft.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps met with his Japanese and Italian counterparts, Minister Minoru Kihara and Minister Guido Crosetto, in Tokyo. The signing of the Treaty comes a year after the formal launch of GCAP and highlights the positive progress in the development of this next-generation fighter jet. The joint development phase of the programme is due to launch in 2025.

The treaty confirmed the UK will host the joint GCAP government headquarters, supporting hundreds of UK jobs and working with Japanese and Italian colleagues. The first CEO will come from Japan. The HQ will be responsible for delivering vital military capability, strengthening each country’s combat air industrial capability, and achieving value for money.

Supporting the Prime Minister’s priority to grow the economy, there are already around 3,000 people in major combat air hubs across the UK, including the south-west and north-west of England and Edinburgh, with almost 600 organisations on contract across the country, including SMEs and academic institutions.

In combat air, the MOD has spent £2 billion in the UK over the last 5 years on technology, creating skills and capabilities – with a further £600 million from industry – to ensure the UK is ready to drive this programme forward.

A crucial programme for the future of stability in the Euro Atlantic, Indo-Pacific and wider global security, GCAP is a strong example of the UK’s global leadership in developing next generation military capability to deter and defeat threats to the UK and our allies.

It is another demonstration of our commitment to Indo-Pacific security, following the deployment of the Royal Navy’s Carrier Strike Group in 2021, with a further deployment coming in 2025, as well as the Navy maintaining a persistent presence in the region through HMS Spey and HMS Tamar.

Separately, a new joint business construct will be headquartered in the UK, with significant global presence. This industry counterpart of the Government organisation will oversee support and timely delivery of the programme, including the 2035 in-service date of the combat aircraft – known as Tempest in the UK. The first leader of the joint business construct will be from Italy.

This collaborative approach is indicative of the ground-breaking international programme.

GCAP will attract investment in research and development into digital design and advanced manufacture processes, providing opportunities for our next generation of highly skilled engineers and technicians.

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 12 December 2023.

Support for UN peacekeeping efforts pledged by Minister for the Armed Forces at United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial in Ghana.

• Support for UN peacekeeping efforts pledged by Minister for the Armed Forces at United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial in Ghana.
• Also holds bilateral security talks with government of Ghana.
• Signs Defence Cooperation Treaty with Senegal.

The UK will commit to an enhanced training offer for UN peacekeepers, the Minister for the Armed Forces announced last week at the 2023 United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial in Accra, Ghana.

Minister for the Armed Forces, Rt Hon James Heappey MP, said:

From violent extremism in the Sahel, to political instability in a number of African states, the importance of working with our regional partners and the UN has rarely been clearer.

It’s not enough for us to train peacekeepers and then let them put themselves in harm’s way with no support. Our new Enhanced Training Model will see our personnel accompany the UN’s peacekeepers on their missions, standing shoulder to shoulder with them on the ground as they work tirelessly to prevent conflict.

Representing the UK at the conference, the minister outlined the UK’s new and continuing commitments to UN peacekeeping missions, including:

• A new Enhanced Training Model (ETM) for UN peacekeepers, which will see UK personnel assisting UN peacekeeping troops before and during missions, based on their requirements.
• Building on the £1m of funding announced earlier this year, a continued commitment for the Elsie Initiative Fund for Uniformed Women in Peace Operations, which supports the participation of women in United Nations peace operations.
• Support for the UN’s counter misinformation and disinformation training efforts.
• A commitment to new training initiatives to build the counter-IED capability of others.

During his visit to Ghana, the minister also held a bilateral security dialogue with the Minister for National Security Albert Kan-Dapaah, Minister of Defence Dominic Nitiwul and Minister for Interior Ambrose Dery. They discussed how to deepen our bilateral defence relationship, building on the deployment of HMS Trent to the Gulf of Guinea and work to counter the threat of violent extremist activity emanating from the Sahel.

He also met the Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumi and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shirley Botchwey.

Visiting Burma Camp, the headquarters of the Ghana Armed Forces, the minister also oversaw the delivery of eight ambulances to Ghana. These ambulances, gifted by the UK, will allow Ghana to improve its medical outreach in the northern border regions.

Earlier in the week, he visited Senegal for bilateral talks with the Minister for Armed Forces Oumar Youm and President Macky Sall, where he signed a new Defence Cooperation Treaty.  The agreement is the first between the UK and Senegal and marks a significant step forward in our defence and security partnership. The UK and Senegal will work together to deepen our relationship, to tackle organised crime and drugs trafficking in the Gulf of Guinea, and to counter regional instability and terrorism in the Sahel.

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 12 December 2023.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps confirming the transfer of two Royal Navy minehunter ships to the Ukrainian Navy.

What’s in a name?

It’s a real pleasure to welcome here my colleague Minister Gram to Admiralty House and also our Ukrainian friend Admiral Neizhpapa along with his translator, to one of our nation’s truly historic buildings.

It’s actually 60 years since this building was the official residence of the First Lord of the Admiralty, and it’s a real reminder that in the Royal Navy, names really have power behind them.

Built in the 1700s, in the following century this was the actual location for the body of Admiral Horatio Nelson who himself lay in state here.

And in the 20th century again, right here the First Lord of the Admiralty during two World Wars was one Winston Churchill.

So, when we think about Admiralty House, we don’t just think about another anonymous monolith on Whitehall.

We think of the living embodiment of some three centuries worth of British naval history.

Ukraine: The story of the Cherkassy

The resonance of a name is not confined to the Royal Navy.

If you consider Ukraine, for example, next year marks 10 years since Russia invaded Crimea.

And back then all that remained between the invader and conquest was 60 crew members of a mine warfare vessel.

That lone ship sailing strong against the might of the Russian navy.

It took a remarkable three weeks before the Ukrainian ensign was finally taken down and the proud crew members were removed from that ship.

By then, the name of that little ship, The Cherkasy, had become a legend. And that legend endures to this day.

Ukraine Navy more than just a name

Eight years after the Cherkasy gave the proverbial finger to the Russians the brave forces on Snake Island, threatened once more by the Moskva, memorably told the Russians where to go in unforgettable words that I won’t repeat this morning.

That is really no surprise because it turned out the soldier who uttered those words also happened to come from the Cherkasy region.

And, as Ukraine marked its Armed Forces Day last week, its navy could reflect on defiance of Cherkasy-like proportions.

If you consider, despite having lost about two-thirds of its fleet after Crimea they have managed to strike the Kremlin’s Naval headquarters at Sevastopol.

They smashed Russian naval vessels through pioneering work of sea drones. They’ve wrestled control over the western Black Sea and sinking one of Russia’s biggest names, the Moskva itself.

Helping Ukraine seize the advantage

Ukrainians have proven more than once that their Navy, is more than just a navy in name only.

And we must help them do even more.

Ukraine must triumph on the water as well as the battlefield itself.

And that’s the only way to ensure freedom of navigation in the Black Sea.

The only way to ensure Ukrainian vessels operate free from Russian bullying, to allow the unimpeded transport of their vital grain and steel to the four corners of the world.

Which is why we’re doing three things to restore the great name of the Ukrainian navy.

First, we’re training Ukrainian sailors.

In the remote waters of Scotland, the Navy have been passing on their knowledge and skills.

But it’s not enough to have the sailors. Ukraine must have the ships.
So, second – we’re taking on the leadership mantle of the Maritime Capability Coalition with our Norwegian friends.

My friend Bjorn and I have been working to understand the Ukrainian requirements.

And now before us is a clear roadmaps, or perhaps more appropriately a sea chart.

To make sure we succeed, we want partners and we’ve reached out to those already involved in supporting Ukraine’s Navy to become framework nations for this coalition. We’ll be able to say more about that by this evening.

And third, we’re helping them to rebuild their capability.

Today, I can announce the UK is gifting 23 on and offshore raiding craft and 20 rapidly deployable Viking amphibious vehicles.

I can also announce we’re supporting Ukraine to procure two mine counter vessels from the UK.

In fact, back in the summer, a flag raising ceremony was held to commission the vessels into service.

This is something that was planned before Ukraine was attacked. And the ships formerly known as HMS Grimsby and HMS Shoreham were renamed Chernihiv M310 and Cherkasy M311.

Yes, the Cherkasy name has been resurrected once again.

And it sends a critical message to President Putin.

If the Kremlin despot believes we are distracted by events in the Middle East he is mistaken. This moment is a wake-up call to the West. A moment once more to renew our complete and utter resolve and prove Putin wrong.

Because rewarding illegality with victory would send a terrible signal.

Not just to our allies in the East but also to the likes of China and Iran.

Suggesting we’re not willing to stand up for international rules.

Suggesting weakness, suggesting vulnerability.

So, securing the seas is the only way to defeat a tyrant like Putin and guarantee long term independence and prosperity for Ukraine and for the whole of Europe.

Back in 1939, when Winston Churchill returned to Admiralty House a signal was sent out to our fleet saying simply: “Winston is back”.

Today the Cherkasy is back, which a decade ago stood defiant, and it’s returned too.

It no longer stands alone.

And it is sending a message of its own to aggressors.

Ukraine will rule the waves.

Ukraine is back.

Slava Ukraini.

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 12 December 2023.

General Sir Roly Walker KCB DSO is to be appointed as Chief of the General Staff and Aide-de-Camp to His Majesty in the rank of General.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has confirmed that His Majesty The King has approved the new appointment of the Chief of the General Staff.

General Sir Roly Walker KCB DSO is to be appointed as Chief of the General Staff and Aide-de-Camp to His Majesty in the rank of General in succession to General Sir Patrick Sanders KBE CBE DSO in June 2024.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said:

I am delighted to congratulate General Sir Roly Walker on his deserved promotion and appointment in June as Chief of the General Staff, the future of the British Army is in excellent hands.

Roly’s wealth of operational experience and previous appointments make him very well suited to lead the British Army as we continue to modernise our Armed Forces to meet the threats and challenges in a more contested and dangerous world. I take this opportunity to recognise General Sir Patrick Sanders’ service to the nation during his distinguished career. Patrick has been integral to driving Defence’s modernisation agenda and I wish him all the best in the future.

Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said:

“I congratulate Lieutenant General Roly Walker on his appointment as Chief of the General Staff, and I congratulate General Sanders for all he has achieved in his five years at the top of Defence.

“As the beneficiary of a £40 billion equipment recapitalisation programme, the 2020s are full of opportunity for the British Army. A proven operational commander and a forward-thinking Whitehall leader, General Roly is just the man to seize the moment. I look forward to working with him in the years ahead.”

General Sir Roly Walker said:

I am absolutely thrilled to be appointed as the next Chief of the General Staff. It has always been a tremendous honour to lead our nation’s soldiers, so the chance to serve them once again, and in this role, is the highest of privileges. It also carries great responsibility, which I promise to discharge to the best of my abilities. Our soldiers, and those who support them, deserve nothing less.

My task will be to build on the successes of my predecessor and friend, Patrick, and lead the British Army forward on an ambitious modernisation journey that means we are fitter, faster for the challenges of the future. There is plenty to be excited about. The Defence Command Paper has set the priorities for the Army and backed them with investment. We have brilliant people at every rank who will turn this into real and potent fighting power. And we have many strong and reliable allies around the world with whom we can work for the common good.

The scene is set. We know our part in Defence’s plan. I’m looking forward to starting.

A biography of General Sir Roly Walker can be found on gov.uk

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 11 December 2023.

The UK is to lead a new Maritime Capability Coalition alongside Norway, with Defence Secretary Grant Shapps confirming the transfer of two Royal Navy minehunter ships to the Ukrainian Navy.

• The UK will lead a new Maritime Capability Coalition alongside Norway, delivering ships and vehicles to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to operate at sea.
• Defence Secretary Grant Shapps will today confirm Ukraine’s procurement of two Royal Navy minehunter ships for the Ukrainian Navy.
• New coalition will deliver long-term support to Ukraine, including training, equipment, and infrastructure to bolster security in the Black Sea.

Two Royal Navy minehunter ships are being transferred from the Royal Navy to the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) in a move to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to operate at sea.

As the UK and Norway launch a new Maritime Capability Coalition, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps will announce the procurement of two Sandown Class mine countermeasures vessels (MCMVs) by Ukraine through UK Export Finance today in London.

He will be joined by his Norwegian counterpart to jointly launch the Maritime Capability Coalition. Alongside this new initiative, the Defence Secretary will confirm further details of UK military support to Ukraine.

Ukraine’s economy continues to be impacted by Putin’s blockade in the Black Sea, which has significantly reduced the country’s ability to move vital exports by sea. Strengthening the AFU’s maritime capabilities, in particular countering the threat from Russian sea mines, will help restore Ukraine’s maritime exports.

This builds on the UK Foreign Secretary’s visit to Ukraine last month where he welcomed the launch of the new ‘Unity Facility’ between UK company Marsh McLennan and the Ukrainian Government, which will provide affordable shipping insurance for grain and other critical food supplies globally from Ukraine’s Black Sea ports, actively support international efforts to alleviate the global food crisis.

The new Maritime Capability Coalition will build the support that the UK, Norway, and others are providing to Ukraine. This will be long term to help Ukraine transform its navy, making it more compatible with western allies, more interoperable with NATO, and bolstering security in the Black Sea.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: 

“These minehunters will deliver vital capability to Ukraine which will help save lives at sea and open up vital export routes, which have been severely limited since Putin launched his illegal full-scale invasion.

“This capability boost marks the beginning of a new dedicated effort by the UK, Norway and our allies to strengthen Ukraine’s maritime capabilities over the long term, enhancing their ability to operate in defending their sovereign waters and bolstering security in the Black Sea.

“As an island nation with a proud maritime history, the UK and Royal Navy are particularly well-placed to support this endeavour, which will form part of a series of new coalitions formed between allies to ensure an enduring military commitment in support of Ukraine.”

Norwegian Defence Minister Bjørn Arild Gram said: 

“The defence of Ukraine is important for Euro-Atlantic security. Now The United Kingdom, Norway and other countries will support Ukraine in developing their navy.

“Our goal is to contribute to building a lasting Ukrainian naval capability. In the further work, I hope Norway, as a sea-faring nation, can contribute with maritime expertise, new technological solutions and innovative thinking.”

The new maritime coalition will work closely with the Ukrainian Navy and Ministry of Defence to develop a number of capabilities, including the rapid development of a maritime force in the Black Sea, continuing to develop a Ukrainian Marine Corps, and river patrol craft to defend coastal and inland waterways.

Agreed during recent meetings of the 50-nation strong Ukraine Defence Contact Group, it forms part of a series of Capability Coalitions to strengthen Ukraine’s operations in other domains including on land and in the air.

The UK and Norway, together with other international partners, have already helped train hundreds of Ukrainian marines and aim to build on this work.

The Prime Minister and Defence Secretary have emphasised the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine, with £4.6bn in military support allocated since Putin launched his full-scale invasion, and more than 52,000 Ukrainian troops trained since Russia first invaded Crimea in 2014.

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 8 December 2023.

Minister for Defence People and Families, Rt Hon Dr Andrew Murrison MP visited troops at Tapa Camp to thank them for their part in protecting NATO’s borders.

Minister for Defence People and Families, Rt Hon Dr Andrew Murrison MP, has met UK Armed Forces during a visit to Estonia to personally thank soldiers for their work in upholding European security.

The Minister also met Estonia’s Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur to discuss the UK’s commitment to protecting European security through our joint work to support the NATO alliance.

Troops based at Tapa Camp consist of the 1st Battalion Royal Regiment of Fusiliers alongside other units from the Royal Artillery and the Royal Engineers. This is further bolstered by personnel located in the Estonian Defence Forces HQ in Talinn. The UK has been the Framework Nation for NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence mission in Estonia since 2017.

As part of our commitment to enhance the experience of our Armed Forces, the Minister reviewed improvements to camp facilities including the introduction of a NAAFI Welfare facility, improved catering options, entertainment, and an expanded training offer.

Minister for Defence People and Families, Rt Hon Dr Andrew Murrison MP said:

I want to thank our Armed Forces, stationed in Estonia, who are on the frontline in reinforcing the NATO alliance. Their hard work and commitment is critical to protecting peace and reinforcing our commitment to Estonia.

Our service personnel, and their families, make huge sacrifices especially when stationed away from home to defend our nation. I am committed to continue driving forward improvements to the support we provide them, ensuring they have the best possible experience.

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 7 December 2023.

The MOD have signed contracts to provide new and refurbished infrastructure for the Red Arrows at their new home of RAF Waddington.

These contracts, signed with construction company Galliford Try, also include work to build or refurbish facilities at three other RAF stations. The Royal Air Force Aerobatics Team (RAFAT), better known as the Red Arrows, moved to RAF Waddington in October last year. New facilities are now required for the team and their distinctive red Hawk fast jets.

The project is part of the MOD’s wider Defence Estate Optimisation (DEO) Portfolio, which is investing £5.1bn in the infrastructure needed by our service people through construction activity, unit and personnel moves, and the release of sites that are no longer suited to the needs of our modern military.

Air Officer Airbases, Air Commodore Portlock welcomed senior leaders from DEO, Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and representatives from Galliford Try to RAF Waddington. They signed four contracts to deliver a project which spans RAF Leeming, RAF Saxton Wold, both RAF Boulmer sites and RAF Waddington.

Speaking at the signing, Air Commodore Portlock said:

This significant milestone marks an exciting transition into the much-awaited design and build phase of the project. Providing this essential infrastructure will enable the RAF to make best use of its estate, whilst also delivering our capabilities which are critical to defence.

Earlier this year, multiple contractors from the construction industry were awarded packages of work across the DEO Portfolio in a landmark move to speed up project delivery. The move will also provide a more collaborative way of working, and a consistent approach to sustainable building practices.

Director of Major Projects and Programmes for DIO, Charles Hoskins said:

Our first DEO project for Air Command under the new contracting mechanism is embarking on a journey to turn vision into reality. Today we sign the design and build contracts and look forward to collaborating with Galiford Try to deliver all capabilities within this project.

These contracts, which have enabled the disposal of RAF Scampton, will now see Galliford Try design and deliver the required infrastructure for Battlespace Management (BM) Force’s Deployable Air Surveillance and Control System (DASCAS), the Mobile Meteorological Unit (MMU) and the Red Arrows.

Jon Marston, Managing Director of Galliford Try Building East Midlands, said:

We are delighted to be signing these contracts and look forward to continuing our strong partnership with the MOD to successfully deliver these projects for the RAF and defence.

The project team are set to deliver a combination of refurbishments, new build facilities and single living accommodation across the sites.

DEO Air Programme Manager, Frank Green said:

Today’s signing ceremony is the result of an exhaustive process that required hard work and a collaborative attitude from all. Moving forward, I am excited to be part of a truly collegiate venture, bringing key improvements to the supported RAF units.

RAFAT will benefit from refurbishment and the modernisation of existing infrastructure, including space for aircraft parking and runway access, as well as maintenance capabilities, a refurbished aircraft hangar and office space.

Plans also include new, modern Single Living Accommodation (SLA) to replace the existing life-expired accommodation as part of a wider scheme to replace SLA. The increase in facilities will see about 150 additional personnel operating from the site once complete.

The press release issued by 10 Downing Street on 7 December 2023.

The King was pleased to approve the following government appointments.

• Michael Tomlinson KC MP to be a Minister of State (Minister for Illegal Migration) in the Home Office;
• Tom Pursglove MP to be a Minister of State (Minister for Legal Migration and Delivery) in the Home Office;
• Robert Courts MP to be Solicitor General.

Michael Tomlinson will attend Cabinet.

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 7 December 2023.

More than 70 AI companies shared how their innovations can enhance defence’s current and future capabilities at the inaugural DAIC Connect industry event on Monday 27 November.

The event was organised by the Defence AI Centre (DAIC) in partnership with business community Chief Disruptor and brought together representatives from industry and academia alongside defence teams including the single services. The aim was to develop a pan-defence understanding of the current AI market and to foster new connections between industry and Ministry of Defence (MOD) teams. This collaborative approach helps to accelerate innovation and strengthen the UK’s AI ecosystem, giving defence a strategic edge.

Most of the industry attendees were from small and medium sized enterprises, some of whom had not worked with the MOD before. Throughout the day, they engaged with senior staff and representatives from teams across defence, while 11 companies were given the chance to deliver a ten-minute pitch about how their AI projects could enhance defence’s current and future capabilities. The presentations were followed by Q&A sessions in which the audience explored the products’ capabilities and offered observations and advice.

In the networking area, the six companies who had sponsored the event ran exhibition stands, alongside DAIC, Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) and Defence Equipment & Support Digital (DE&S Digital) from the MOD. This provided a further forum to discuss innovations and challenges encountered when developing and adopting AI.

Charlie Forte, MOD Chief Information Officer, who delivered the opening address, said:

It is essential that defence develops a more dynamic and integrated relationship with a wide and more diverse group of industry partners because it is through these partnerships that truly transformative solutions can be developed and placed into the hands of users. I am therefore delighted to be opening the inaugural DAIC Connect and to see such a breadth of representation from so many different companies and MOD teams.

Cdre Rachel Singleton RN, Head DAIC, said:

It’s fantastic to see so much enthusiasm in the room as people form new connections. Events like DAIC Connect are about bringing together people from across the AI ecosystem so we can continue to explore how we can exploit AI in support of defence challenges.

Dina Kakaras, Head of Commercial X, explained her team’s work to drive end-to-end, fast-paced acquisition of innovative military capability and to break down barriers for SMEs and wider industry looking to work with the MOD. She emphasised the need to start small and embrace risk, while highlighting the importance of SMEs in driving innovation in the field.

The day closed with speeches and a joint Q&A by Director of Defence Innovation John Ridge and Director of Strategy and Military Digitalisation, Defence Digital, Air Vice-Marshal David Arthurton. John Ridge called for a collaborative approach across defence and industry in encouraging innovation in defence, and building on efforts by many teams over the past few years in achieving what he described as “Innovation 2.0.” Air Vice-Marshal David Arthurton emphasised that trust will be a critical element in bringing all stakeholders on board for the journey.

Paul Jones, VP UK Business Development at CrateDB, said:

CrateDB was proud to be a part of the inaugural DAIC Connect, a unique event where the MOD’s leading AI teams demonstrated the latest challenges and opportunities to the industry. The event was a great success, generating a lot of enthusiasm and interest among the participants.

About the DAIC

The Defence AI Centre was established in 2022 as an outcome of the 2021 Integrated Review. It has the mandate to accelerate defence’s ability to harness AI, in line with our principles and values. Its mission is to champion, enable and innovate the safe and responsible adoption of AI in defence.

The press release issued by the Ministry of Defence on 7 December 2023.

As part of ongoing diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, the Defence Secretary travels to the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) and Israel this week.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps will push for humanitarian aid to be delivered to Palestinians faster – including by sea directly into Gaza – when he visits the Occupied Palestinian Territories and Israel this week.

The trip will see him discuss options with leaders to provide civilians in Gaza with more aid and how the UK can support the Palestinian Authority, as well as efforts to prevent further escalation in the Middle East.

He will also discuss progress in recovering hostages – including a number of Britons – who were taken by Hamas terrorists during the 7 October attacks.

With Palestinian civilians experiencing a growing humanitarian crisis, the Defence Secretary will address options for providing Gaza with more medical and humanitarian aid, including potential routes via land, sea, and air. To date, four RAF flights carrying over 74 tonnes of aid have landed in Egypt with aid bound for Palestinians.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said:

My visit this week is an important opportunity to discuss efforts to accelerate the delivery of lifesaving humanitarian assistance into Gaza and efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages.

We are working to find the best way to get aid and support to those in desperate need in the quickest and most direct route. That includes options by land, sea and air.

We have deployed an extra 1,000 military personnel in the Middle East and our forces are there to support the humanitarian aid effort and help in stabilising the area.

The events of 7 October horrified the world and I personally want to offer my support and condolences to Israel and its people.

We fully support Israel’s right to defend itself, but it is important their fight against Hamas terrorists remains within international law.

In the OPTs, the Defence Secretary is expected to meet the Interior Minister of the Palestinian Authority, General Ziad Hab Al-Reeh, to address the urgent need for measures to improve security for Palestinians in the West Bank.

In Tel Aviv, the Defence Secretary will meet Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to address the current security situation and Israel’s next steps.The UK has made clear that Israel has the right to defend itself against terror, restore its security and bring the hostages home, but it must abide by international humanitarian law and take all possible measures to protect civilians.

Since Hamas’ terrorist attacks against Israel on 7 October 2023, the UK has increased its military presence in the region in order to support contingency planning, monitor the evolving situation, and to be ready to react and respond to regional threats.

This included the deployment of a Royal Navy task group to the eastern Mediterranean, including RFA Lyme Bay and RFA Argus, three Merlin helicopters and a company of Royal Marines. In support of the ongoing hostage rescue activity, the UK Ministry of Defence is also conducting unarmed surveillance flights over the eastern Mediterranean, including operating in airspace over Israel and Gaza. In total, the UK has deployed an additional 1,000 personnel to the Middle East, bringing the total number of Armed Forces personnel deployed to the region to around 2,500 – including those deployed for counter-Daesh operations, training, and maritime security.

Last week, the Defence Secretary also announced that HMS Diamond is deploying east of Suez to join HMS Lancaster on Operation Kipion, the UK’s longstanding maritime presence in the Gulf and the Indian Ocean, following increasing concerns about the security of important maritime trade routes.

On Wednesday, the Defence Secretary also travelled to the Republic of Cyprus and the Sovereign Base Areas (SBA) of Akrotiri and Dhekelia. During this visit, he met with the Cypriot Minister of Foreign Affairs Constantinos Kombos and discussed the importance of humanitarian support for Gaza, the war in Ukraine, and shared security interests.