Armoured vehicles, counter-Improvised Explosive Device robots, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and blood transport units are on display at an event to mark National Science and Engineering Week.
The event, organised by the Defence Industries Council and the MoD, is part of an annual series of forums celebrating science, engineering and technology. It gives an insight into current technologies being deployed in support of the Armed Forces, as well as a forward look at the scientific innovations which may one day add to the current range of tools affording military personnel a battle-winning edge.
Opening the event at Yeomanry House in London, the Minister for defence equipment and support, Quentin Davies, said: “Today’s event celebrates the vital work of scientists, engineers and inventors who have helped cement the UK’s position as a world leader in science and research. Their discoveries are reaping benefits for the Armed Forces and civil society, helping to improve and protect lives.”
Industry exhibitors at the event were joined by Armed Forces personnel who are already benefiting from the latest technologies in the field. These included personnel from 29 EOD and Search Group and RAF UAV specialists, who recently combined ground technology and UAVs in Afghanistan to guard against threats such as Improvised Explosive Devices.
Rees Ward, CEO of Aerospace, Defence and Security and Secretary of the Defence Industries Council, said: “This event is an excellent opportunity for the defence industry and the Ministry of Defence to demonstrate how we are working together to use the best of British innovation and technology to provide the best possible protection to our armed forces. We also hope that young people reading about the high-quality, high-tech kit on display will be enthused and encouraged to get involved in science, technology and engineering an go on to pursue successful careers in the industry.
“The ‘Defence Matters Campaign’, which has worked with the Ministry of Defence in organising this event, aims to inform people around the UK about the contribution the defence industry makes — not just in terms of supporting our Armed Forces with the best equipment and service support available, but also in terms of its economic contribution. The defence industry is a provider of over 300,000 high-value engineering jobs across all regions of the country, in companies of all sizes.”
