0900 hrs (GMT), 28 February 2026 EVENT. Sibylline reported to day that at approximately 0800hrs (local time) on 28 February, Israel and the US launched a joint airstrike campaign targeting Iran. Strikes are ongoing at the time of writing, with explosions reported in major cities, including the capital Tehran. Airstrikes have primarily targeted locations associated with Iran’s government, intelligence services and security forces, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). US President Donald Trump subsequently announced that the US has begun ‘major combat operations in Iran’ and called for the Iranian people to ‘take over’ the government once strikes have concluded.

SIGNIFICANCE • The strikes come after weeks of rising tensions between the US and Iran, with US President Donald Trump repeatedly threatening to engage in military action in response to stalled progress in nuclear negotiations. The US has also surged military assets to the region, including two naval carrier strike groups (see Sibylline Middle East Crisis Update – 18 February 2026).

• The US previously engaged in airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities during the Israel-Iran war in June. Iran retaliated to these strikes with a limited missile attack targeting the US’s Al Udeid Air Base (Qatar) on 23 June (see Sibylline Middle East Crisis Update – 23 June 2025).

• As part of preparations for Iran’s response, Israel has closed its airspace, and the Home Front Command (HCF) increased the national readiness level from Full Activity to Necessary Activity. Iraq and Iran have also closed their respective airspaces.  FORECAST Iran will almost certainly retaliate to Israeli airstrikes with repeated missile and drone attacks targeting Israel in the coming days, disrupting operational continuity for locally engaged entities. Although strikes will likely nominally target Israeli military facilities, as many key military facilities are located within major cities such as Beersheba (Southern district), Haifa (Haifa district) and Tel Aviv (Tel Aviv district), missile and drone attacks are likely to directly impact civilian installations and infrastructure.

Although Israeli and US air defences are almost certainly capable of intercepting the majority of Iranian munitions, successful penetration and shrapnel from interception will drive security and collateral risks for locally engaged assets and personnel. Iranian hostilities targeting Israel will also significantly increase the risks of further Israeli operations targeting security force facilities within Iran, increasing risks of conflict extension and associated regional fallout in the coming weeks. In the coming days, Iran is also highly likely to respond to US strikes by targeting US military installations in the region, increasing regional tensions and escalation risks. In the coming hours, Iranian authorities will likely continue working to determine the impact of US strike action on targeted locations. The intensity of Iran’s response to strike action will likely depend on the extent of damage to targeted facilities and potential casualties among senior military or regime leadership. Given initial reports indicating that the airstrike campaign has been extensive, Iran is highly likely to mobilise efforts to conduct a missile and drone attack targeting US military installations in the region in the coming days (see Sibylline Sibylline Ltd 2026 In Confidence

Situation Update Brief – 26 February 2026). Strike action will possibly target installations such as the Al Udeid Air Base (XJD, Al Rayyan municipality, Qatar), Harir Air Base (Erbil governorate, Iraq) and Naval Support Activity Bahrain (Capital governorate, Bahrain). Iran will also possibly engage in broader retaliation targeting US naval assets in the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Oman and the Mediterranean Sea, as well as the targeting of assets in Jordan, Kuwait and the UAE. Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting US military installations will increase risks of exposure to blasts and shrapnel for assets and personnel in close proximity to targeted locations. Initial reports indicate that Iran has fired at least one missile at Bahrain’s capital Manama (likely targeting Naval Support Activity Bahrain), while local media reports indicate that an explosion has occurred in the UAE’s capital Abu Dhabi. Further attacks remain possible in the coming hours, though broader airstrikes targeting civilian and government facilities in Gulf countries hosting US forces are currently unlikely. Regardless, the interception of Iranian munitions at high altitudes will also increase risks of shrapnel-related collateral damage across the region, including rural areas in Jordan, Iraq, Israel, Syria and Saudi Arabia.  US and Iranian hostilities will almost certainly trigger further airspace closures in the coming hours, significantly disrupting regional travel continuity. At the time of writing, Iraq, Iran and Israel have shut their respective airspace.

Further temporary closures are highly likely across the broader region in the coming hours, significantly disrupting commercial flight activity. This will likely impede air travel from the region at this time, increasing competition for limited flights and resulting in substantial overcrowding at airports. Regional flights will likely face substantial delays and broad cancellations, with knock-on effects for intercontinental travel via Dubai International Airport (DXB, UAE) and Hamad International Airport (DOH, Qatar). The rerouting of flight paths will also increase journey times and increase risks of supply chain disruption for entities reliant on air freight. The strikes are highly likely to increase pressure on regime stability in Iran, increasing prospects for asymmetric Iranian hostiles and efforts to restrict the navigability of the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump’s explicit call for a popular uprising in Iran is highly likely to compound the Iranian government’s concerns regarding government stability and threats to regime survival (see Sibylline Special Report – 19 January 2026). This will likely result in Iran pursuing a variety of asymmetric attacks targeting US and Israeli assets and interests in the region to deter sustained military action. This campaign will possibly include cyberattacks, information campaigns and attempts to disrupt navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Although Iran is unlikely to unilaterally close the Strait of Hormuz in the coming days, Iranian parliamentarians will possibly threaten to restrict the navigability of the waterway, compounding market concerns over supply chain continuity. As the Strait of Hormuz is critical for the export of crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, threats to restrict the waterway’s navigability will likely trigger price shocks across international energy markets, temporarily increasing operational costs worldwide. Amid increasing concerns that Iran will restrict passage through the Strait, oil exporters will likely attempt to expedite shipments from the Gulf to receiving markets, increasing risks of bottlenecks and vessel collisions in the coming days.

(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

26 Jan 26. Red tape to be slashed as MOD launches new team to back British small businesses

A new team dedicated to supporting small British businesses to win more defence contracts has been established today by the Defence Readiness and Industry Minister, Luke Pollard MP, on a visit to the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland.

• New team to transform how small businesses can bid for and win Defence contracts.
• 30 pathfinder SMEs across the UK initially selected for support and to represent different sectors and regions.
• Work is part of the government’s drive to spend £2.5bn more with SMEs.

Known as the Defence Office for Small Business Growth (OfSBG), it will be made up of policy and commercial expert staff, who will support small and medium UK firms to bid for and win more defence contracts. The ambition is to reverse the decline in Ministry of Defence (MOD) spend on SMEs, as identified in the Defence Industrial Strategy.

This will also help deliver on the Government’s pledge to increase defence spending with SMEs by 50% by 2028 and is a significant vote of confidence in around 12,000 SMEs across the UK, marking an important step in removing barriers faced by SMEs at a crucial time for national security and innovation.

The team will help to simplify and speed up cumbersome processes, provide advice to SMEs, and encourage private sector investment, supporting the Defence Secretary John Healey’s pledge to make Britain the best place in the world to start and grow a defence business.

The OfSBG will oversee a comprehensive programme of change, ranging from policy and commercial process simplification – such as improving cash flow when under contract – to encouraging private investment by providing long-term clarity on procurements. This work is in addition to enhancing transparency and knowledge sharing within the sector, all aimed at backing British SMEs.

As well as visiting the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland, which backs the manufacturing of innovative technology, Minister Pollard also visited SMEs on Monday, including Viper::Blast, based in Aberdour, who specialise in fast, high-fidelity simulation of air blast, explosive detonations, and structural loading.

Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP, said: “Small businesses told us defence procurement was too slow, too complex and too hard to navigate. We listened, and now we’re acting. We’re breaking down barriers and opening new avenues for innovation. We are ensuring that our SMEs can play a vital role in strengthening our defence capabilities. Defence is an engine for growth, and small businesses are the backbone of UK defence. This is a collective endeavour, and we are committed to supporting British businesses, enhancing our security, and driving prosperity for working people across the country.”

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander said: “The creation of the Defence Office for Small Business Growth is great news for Scottish businesses, workers and the economy as it will help boost opportunities and access to investment, supported by our pledge to increase spending with SMEs by £2.5bn by May 2028. Defence is already a key driver for renewal in Scotland, with the Ministry of Defence spending more than £2bn a year with the sector in Scotland, supporting nearly 12,000 industry jobs. Now with our historic uplift in spending to protect our own and European security and this new support for small and medium enterprises we will further transform the sector. As we up our game on defence, Scotland’s world class industry and supply chain and global demand for Scottish expertise will play a big role in ensuring Britain’s security, deterring our adversaries and driving economic growth for years to come. UK SMEs saw £1.2bn of direct investment from the MOD in 2024/25. To make defence even more of an engine for growth, the Government has set an SME spend target of an additional £2.5bn through to May 2028, taking total MOD spending with SMEs to £7.5bn.”

For both new and existing suppliers, the OfSBG will act as a central hub for advice and support on engaging with defence, ensuring procurement processes are faster, simpler and more effective. Services include structured guidance on tendering, contracting and working with the MOD and wider defence supply chain, mentoring schemes, networking opportunities with prime contractors, signposting to regional defence clusters and trade associations, and a confidential channel for SMEs to raise concerns.

A public-facing web portal and contact centre will initially support 30 SMEs, from carefully selected sectors, covering cyber to aeronautical engineering, and covering the whole of the UK from the south coast of England to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. They represent a cross section of industry including those who have previously worked with the MOD and those who are new, ensuring industry is supplying the best of British capabilities to defence. These companies will help rapidly test, trial, and refine the service before planned expansion to embrace the wider business community over the coming weeks and months.

National Armaments Director, Rupert Pearce, said: “SMEs are the backbone of UK defence, bringing the innovation, agility and fresh thinking that our Armed Forces need to stay ahead of evolving threats. A more vibrant SME supply chain means better capability for our Armed Forces, greater resilience in our industrial base, and economic growth for communities across the country. I look forward to working with businesses of all sizes to deliver on this ambition. By working across defence, government and with private investors, we will build a dynamic ecosystem of innovative, well-capitalised small businesses ready to deliver the capabilities our Armed Forces need. The work of the OfSBG will be reinforced by the newly introduced SME Commercial Pathway, providing clear, accessible guidance to ensure MOD teams are actively reducing barriers and increasing opportunities for SMEs to bid for and win MOD work.

The Pathway covers improved market engagement, reserving below-threshold procurements for SMEs, segmenting contracts to enable greater participation, engaging with prime contractors to manage SMEs within their supply chains, and strengthening SME resilience through improved cash flow when under contract.

The OfSBG will collaborate across defence, government departments, strategic partners and private investors to create a dynamic UK ecosystem of well-capitalised, high-growth small businesses.

These businesses will be encouraged to enter the defence market and contribute to rapidly delivering warfighting readiness to the UK Armed Forces – a key pillar of the Strategic Defence Review.

This government is delivering the largest sustained increase in Defence spending since the end of the Cold War – hitting 2.6% of GDP from 2027. That will see £270bn invested into defence across this Parliament. Increased investment in Small and Medium enterprises will ensure defence is an engine for growth in all the regions of the UK. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

13 Jan 26. BATTLESPACE Publications is delighted to announce that the organisers of the Grand Military Gold Cup at Sandown to be held on February 6^th 2026, have agreed to accommodate the BATTLESPACE Raceday, sponsors, delegates and guests as part of the Grand Military Day in 2027.

Julian Nettlefold, BATTLESPACE Military Raceday Organiser since its inception in 2013 to raise money for military veterans their families said, “I am so honoured that the Grand Military Gold cup organisers and the Jockey Club have agreed to let our various sponsors and guests join in on the venerable Grand Military Gold Cup first run in 1841. Our team will broaden the already extensive guest list of military personnel and companies to provide much needed fund raising for the military charities.”

Sarah Drabwell of the Jockey Club said, “Sandown Park is deeply honoured to add BATTLESPACE Technologies, who raise funds for SSAFA,  the armed forces charity, to the list of partners it is working with to deliver its Grand Military Gold Cup Day from 2027. Since the late 1800s Sandown Park has hosted military racing, offering not only a chance for military riders to compete, but also for serving and veteran personnel to connect and, for the public to see the very best of what our military has to offer. The day is delivered in partnership with our headline sponsor, Army Sport, who showcase the leisure opportunities on offer for those serving, and the Army Engagement team who deliver a youth inspiration event and a veteran engagement programme including everything from the Chelsea Pensioners choir to military bands and classic military vehicles.  In short, there is something for everyone. We hope that alongside Army Sport, Old Gold Racing, The Royal British Legion, The Chelsea Pensioners, Walking with the Wounded, The Cavalry and Guards Club and many more, Battlefield Technologies enjoy everything that this day and Sandown Park have to offer.”

Sir Simon Bollom, National Chair of SSAFA said, “SSAFA is absolutely delighted to continue to work with Battlespace Technology and to be part of the race day as it moves to join the Grand Military Gold Cup at Sandown in 2027. We are very much looking forward to this relationship continuing and are grateful for the many years of support- not to mention the thousands of pounds raised- that Julian Nettlefold has given SSAFA.”

For the last two years The Grand Military team have been working to establish the Grand Military Gold Meeting as an Army outreach event, focusing on all three generations of the military family; serving, served and those yet to serve.

We currently have a veteran’s outreach event and a youth engagement programme which this year sees 850 young people in attendance, but we also want to offer something to the serving.

Tickets are available for FREE via tickets for troops, the Jockey Club can provide a £10 ticket using code SSAFA26 at check out and the Jockey Club will make a donation to SSAFA.

The Jockey Club has very kindly offered to provide a table at the event for BATTLESPACE sponsors and delegates at the 2026 event to be held on February 9^th 2026 for £50+VAT per seat. Please email nology.com

Not only is it a cracking day out, there is also the opportunity to see a host of Army Sport stands and opportunities, be part of a great day of racing including two races for amateur military riders and there is even a chance to buy a share in a racehorse being campaigned for good military causes.

The Grand Military Meeting is to be held at Sandown Racecourse on February 9^th.

For further details contact:

Jockey Club:

Julian Nettlefold, BATTLESPACE: nology.com

Verity Harding, SSAFA:

03 Jan 26.  Sibylline reported today that earlier on 3 January, the US military conducted several airstrikes in Venezuela at around 0200hrs (local time), including in the capital Caracas; US President Donald Trump also stated that the US military has captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. The Venezuelan regime reported that attacks also occurred in Aragua, Miranda and La Guaira states. Targets reportedly included the major military complex Fort Tiuna and La Carlota Air Base (both Caracas); communications infrastructure near El Volcán (Miranda state) and La Guaira port (La Guaira state); and unidentified targets in Aragua state. Furthermore, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a notice to airmen (NOTAM) earlier on 3 January banning US commercial flights over Venezuela and Curaçao due to the ‘ongoing military activity’. In response, the Venezuelan regime declared a national emergency and has enacted military mobilisation plans. Neither the US nor the Venezuelan authorities have reported the number of casualties.

SIGNIFICANCE

* Since August, the US has deployed military assets to the Caribbean Sea with the stated aim of tackling regional drug trafficking. The deployment comprises significant naval and air assets, including the USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carrier.

* Since September, the US military has conducted a series of strikes against suspected drug trafficking boats in the Caribbean, killing at least 110 people to date. The US has also seized sanctioned oil tankers servicing Venezuela to increase economic pressure.

* In response, Maduro’s regime offered the Trump administration a number of significant concessions, such as minerals and oil rights, in exchange for a decrease in military pressure. The Trump administration has so far rejected all proposals.

FORECAST

Further strikes on key military and Venezuelan regime positions are a realistic possibility in the coming hours and days, elevating physical security risks. Possible targets include military airstrips, ports, barracks, power stations, communications infrastructure and government buildings housing high-profile regime members. Further strikes would significantly increase asset damage and physical security risks for personnel and assets proximate to these installations. Additionally, if the US accompanies strikes with special forces operations to capture other members of the Venezuelan regime, the risk of armed clashes will increase. Nevertheless, we continue to assess that a large-scale US ground invasion of Venezuela is a remote possibility in the near term. The Venezuelan regime is unlikely to retaliate militarily against the US in the short-to-medium term, decreasing the risk of armed conflict. The Venezuelan regime will likely attempt to negotiate with the Trump administration by offering further concessions which will possibly de-escalate bilateral tensions.

In the immediate term, the risk of a coup d’état against the Venezuelan regime by elements of the armed forces will increase significantly (see Sibylline Special Report – 23 December 2025). Vice President Delcy Rodríguez will highly likely assume the presidency in Maduro’s absence. The Venezuelan regime will highly likely mobilise the security forces to lock down Caracas and other major urban centres, as well as reinforcing critical national infrastructure, such as airports and ports. This will cause significant operational disruption to the aviation and maritime sectors in the immediate term. The disruption will be exacerbated by the FAA NOTAM and the likelihood of intense GPS jamming operations by the US military off the coast of Venezuela. In the event of an attempted coup, the risk of armed clashes will increase significantly in Caracas, proximate to key regime infrastructure, such as the Miraflores presidential palace.

The Venezuelan regime will likely retaliate by cracking down on opposition supporters, increasing repression risks. The Venezuelan opposition will highly likely take advantage of the strikes and Maduro’s alleged exfiltration by the US. Anti-government demonstrations calling for de facto opposition leader María Corina Machado or former presidential candidate Edmundo González Urrutia to take power are highly likely in the coming hours and days. A heavy-handed crackdown on protests by the regime is highly likely as well as arrests of prominent opposition figures. Increased repression will elevate arbitrary detention, censorship and physical security risks for personnel in the humanitarian and journalism sectors, as well as individuals associated with the opposition. Surveillance of US nationals in Venezuela will also likely increase in the coming days. (Source: Sibylline)

03 Nov 11. It is with great regret that the organisers of the Chepstow Drone Racing Day due to be held on November 4^th have had to cancel the event due to adverse weather warnings. The Conference and C-UAS equipment demonstrations will continue on November 5^th as usual with an adjusted Programme as below.

Major Karl Eze, Head of British Army Drone Racing said, “Adverse rain and wind forecasts for Tuesday, due to the residue of Hurricane Benjamin, has made it impossible to run our races. The lack of visibility would have made it difficult and dangerous to run the races and comply with drone racing rules.”

It is with great regret that the organisers of the Chepstow Drone Racing Day due to be held on November 4^th have had to cancel the event due to adverse weather warnings. The Conference and C-UAS equipment demonstrations will continue on November 5^th as usual with an adjusted Programme which will be sent tomorrow.

Major Karl Eze, Head of British Army Drone Racing said, “Adverse rain and wind forecasts for Tuesday, due to the residue of Hurricane Benjamin, has made it impossible to run our races. The lack of visibility would have made it difficult and dangerous to run the races and comply with drone racing rules.”

“The British Army Drone Racing Team is committed to making an annual Welsh Drone Racing event with multiple teams, and we look forward to next year.”

Brig (Retd) Ian Cameron-Mowat, Chairman of the Protecting Critical Infrastructure Conference said, “The ability to fly live drones and demonstrate counter-drone systems have to contend with was an added bonus for our C-UAS conference, where we look forward to welcoming everyone on Wednesday. On key change is that our Keynote speaker, First Secretary of the Ukraine Embassy, Mr Denys Demko, will now be giving his paper on ‘Drone Operations in Ukraine’ at 1600 after racing.”

Julian Nettlefold of BATTLESPACE said, “I must thank everyone involved in planning the first Chepstow drone racing event for 2025. It’s a huge shame that, due to circumstances beyond our control, we’ve had to slip it for a year. Watch this space for our plans in 2026, which I can promise will be a thrilling event as well as raising thousands for our charities.”

New Conference and Dinner Timetable

November 4th

Celtic Manor

18:30 – Drinks Reception

19:30 – BBOY Award Presentation

20:00 – Royal Hospital Chelsea Outreach Gala Dinner with General Sir Adrian Bradshaw, KCB, OBE and Lady Bradshaw

Chepstow Racecourse 5 November 2025

Agenda

Conference & Racing

Protecting Critical Infrastructure

Exploring Regulatory, Technological Challenges

08:30 – Registration and Breakfast

08:45 – Introduction Brigadier (Ret’d)  Ian Cameron-Mowat, Chairman

09:00 – Keynote – Nigel Russell – Plan A Safety Consultancy – Applying Martyn’s Law Regulations

09:20 – Kinetic C-UAS Systems – Steve O’Leary GDUK

09:40 – The Benefits of FPV Drones On The Battlefield – Toby Townrow, Business Development Director, Drone Evolution

10:00 – Roundtable Discussion Q&A on C-UAS Systems For Sporting Venues – Hosted by Brigadier Ian Cameron Mowat

10:30 – Tipster talk – Roger Hart

11:0 – Introduction to Chepstow Raceday Vanessa Hathaway, Julian Nettlefold

12:20 – Conference Ends – Bar Opens

12:00 – Chelsea Pensioners Ring the Bell to Start Racing

12:30 – Lunch starts

12:05 – Cheque Presentation by ARC to General Sir Adrian and Lady Bradshaw, Governor of the Royal Hospital

12:30 – Racing starts

Racecard

Heckler & Koch – No Compromise Maiden Hurdle (Gbb Race)

Heckler & Koch – No Compromise Maiden Hurdle (Gbb Race)

Jaltek Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Chase

THE ANGELA NETTLEFOLD MEMORIAL “National Hunt” Maiden Hurdle

THE ANGELA NETTLEFOLD MEMORIAL “National Hunt” Maiden Hurdle

The NMS UK  Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase

Spectra Group  Handicap Hurdle

Cre8 Associates Open National Hunt Flat Race

16:20 – Keynote – The Current Drone Threat Facing Ukraine Key Infrastructure – Denys Demko, First Secretary, Ukraine Embassy, London

16:40 – Charity Auction by Steve O’Leary

Raffle prizes

Below is the list of Auction and Charity Prizes – do email Julian Nettlefold to leave a Reserve

Thanks to everyone for their kind donations

Donations

£10,000 from ARC To The Royal Hospital Outreach Programme

£1500.00 from Hall & Watts to the charities

Auction Prizes

Office Chair

Kindly Donated by TEK Seating

Third angle projection – Rifle .303 No.4 Mk.2 “Lee Enfield”,

Conversion to 7.62mm NATO (L8A1 Conversion).

This drawing indicates to engineers and/or armourers the necessary modifications for converting WW2-era .303 Enfield No.4 rifles to the NATO standard cartridge.

Originally printed 18th May 1962, designed and developed by Royal Small Arms Factory Enfield.

Framed, very good condition. Dimensions: 34cm x 26cm.

Kindly Donated by Heckler & Koch

Complimentary Overnight Stay with breakfast and drinks worth £500

Kindly Donated By The Sloane Square Hotel

A Tour of The General Dynamics South Wales Facility

Kindly Donated By GDLS

A Party of 4 to accompany the ITV Racing Team at a Race Meeting (excluding Ascot, Cheltenham Newmarket and Classic meetings)

1 x Small Cask of Whisky

Kindly donated by North Point Distillery

Table for 4 in the Racecourse Restaurant (Non feature day)

Kindly Donated by Chepstow Racecourse

1 Night, Dinner, Bed and Breakfast For 2 People

Kindly Donated by Freddie Tulloch of the Queen’s Arms, East Garston

Tea for 2 at the Royal Hospital Chelsea

Kindly Donated by The Royal Hospital Chelsea

A Box of Berry Bros. Wine x6

Kindly Donated by Richard Skan, CEO of Boughton Engineering

Raffle Prizes

John Lewis Voucher

Donated by Thermoteknix TBC

Tour of The House of Lords with Lord Bellingham for 2 People

Kindly Donated by Lord Bellingham

Afternoon Tea for 2 at The Belsfield Hotel worth £100

Kindly Donated by Oxley Group

2 tickets to a 2024 Carol Concert of choice

Kindly Donated by SSAFA

£100 Voucher

Kindly Donated by Chamois PR

Tickets for 4 people on the Newmarket course, not Guineas or July Meeting

Kindly Donated by Angus Gold, Shadwell Estate Company

A Round of Golf at Gifford Golf Club

Kindly Donated by Gavin Kynoch, Gifford Golf Club

18:00 – Carriages

For further details contact:

Julian Nettlefold:

Vanessa Hathaway:

27 Oct 25. 20,000 UK jobs secured as Türkiye buys 20 Typhoon jets in biggest fighter jet deal in a generation.

Thousands of skilled UK jobs have been secured for years to come as the UK and Türkiye sign a deal worth up to £8bn for 20 UK Typhoon fighter jets – the biggest fighter jet exports deal in a generation.

From:

• £8bn deal struck with Türkiye for first new orders for UK Typhoons since 2017, as the Prime Minister visits Ankara for the first time.
• Deal strengthens NATO’s collective deterrence and ties between UK and Türkiye.
• Skilled jobs on production lines sustained across the UK for years to come, including in Warton, Salmesbury, Bristol and Edinburgh, delivering on this government’s Plan for Change.
• Türkiye becomes the tenth operator alongside: UK, Germany, Spain, Italy, Austria, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia
• Typhoon is widely regarded as one of the UK’s most successful defence export programmes contributing £1.4bn in exports annually
• The programme generates £1.6bn to the UK economy each year
• More than 20,000 jobs across the UK are supported by the Typhoon programme, including highly skilled sovereign engineering roles, with the majority based in the North West of England
• Typhoon production in the UK now extends into the 2030s
• From the UK Government’s original £12bn investment, the programme has already returned more than £30bn to the UK economy
• Under the agreement, BAE Systems anticipates that it will recognise c.£4.6 billion including through its shareholding in MBDA.

Thousands of skilled UK jobs have been secured for years to come as the UK and Türkiye sign a deal worth up to £8bn for 20 UK Typhoon fighter jets – the biggest fighter jet exports deal in a generation.

The multi-billion pound deal was signed as the Prime Minister was hosted by the President of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, during his first visit to Ankara today.

The deal will help to sustain a 20,000 strong UK wide workforce, with production lines in Edinburgh, Warton, Salmesbury and Bristol.

The Turkish agreement is a major boost for the British order book, representing the biggest fighter jet deal in almost 20 years and saving the Warton production line.

Under the agreement, BAE Systems will manufacture major airframe components, conduct the final assembly of the aircraft and lead the weapons integration at its sites in Lancashire, generating work for hundreds of companies across the UK supply chain. The weapons package will be primarily provided by MBDA.

The agreement announced today means the Turkish Air Force will become the tenth air force to operate Typhoon and reflects the crucial role Typhoons are providing in international air defence.

It will also strengthen Türkiye’s advanced combat capabilities, bolstering NATO’s strength in a key region and enhancing interoperability between both our air forces.

The deal comes just weeks after the UK’s Type 26 frigates were selected by Norway, adding a further £10 billion to Britain’s economy and securing 4,000 jobs.

Both deals underline the government’s work to make defence an engine for growth, delivering highly skilled jobs and putting money in the pockets of working people through the Plan for Change.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “This landmark agreement with Türkiye is a win for British workers, a win for our defence industry, and a win for NATO security.  At either ends of Europe, the UK and Türkiye are vital to tackling the challenges of our time and this will allow our Armed Forces to work even closer together as we deter threats and protect our national interests.  Delivering highly skilled, well-paid jobs, including in Warton, Edinburgh and Bristol for years to come, this is yet another example of our Plan for Change in action, driving renewal and opportunity up and down the country.”

The deal also follows the Prime Minister and the German Chancellor Friedrich Merz signing a new agreement in July to boost world-class UK defence exports such as Boxer armoured vehicles and Typhoon.

During the Prime Minister’s visit today, he also met Turkish military and RAF Typhoon pilots to hear firsthand how the jets will contribute to European security.

The Prime Minister also laid a wreath at the Anitkabir Ataturk Mausoleum, before finalising the Typhoon deal at the Presidential Palace.

The Typhoon workshare agreement sees more than a third (37%) of each aircraft manufactured in the UK; the rest of each aircraft would be produced by the Eurofighter Partner Nations. The UK jobs include:

• Nearly 6,000 jobs directly support the Typhoon programme at BAE Systems sites in Warton and Samlesbury, where production and final assembly of each Typhoon fighter jet takes place.
• The Typhoon programme supports more than 1,100 jobs in the South West region. That includes Rolls-Royce in Bristol producing critical modules and components for Typhoon’s EJ200 jet engines and acting as main hub for maintenance of the engines.
• The Typhoon programme supports more than 800 jobs in Scotland. That includes Leonardo in Edinburgh manufacturing the fighter jet’s cutting-edge radar for identifying enemies.

Defence Secretary John Healey, who travelled with the Prime Minister to Ankara to finalise the deal, said: “This is another major export deal for the UK and is the biggest jet exports deal in a generation. It will pump billions of pounds into our economy and keep British Typhoon production lines turning long into the future. This deal goes far beyond the procurement of aircraft. It is the leading edge of the growing defence and industrial partnership between our two nations.

Türkiye is an important NATO ally and the gatekeeper to the Black Sea. By equipping them with top-of-the-range Typhoon fighter jets, this deal will strengthen NATO deterrence and help make us all safer.

I’m determined this government will make defence an engine for growth across the UK.”

The first delivery to Türkiye is expected to take place in 2030.

Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive, BAE Systems said: “Türkiye’s procurement of Typhoon marks the start of a new chapter in our longstanding relationship with this important NATO ally and reinforces the outstanding operational support the aircraft delivers across Europe and the Middle East as a fundamental pillar of defence and security.

Typhoon is an export success story and demonstrates how investment in defence can fuel significant economic growth and returns across the UK. Today’s announcement extends Typhoon production and preserves crucial sovereign skills which underpin the UK’s defence and security.”

Typhoon jets continue to demonstrate their formidable capabilities as the mainstay of RAF combat air operations. Deployments include:

• NATO Air Policing: Securing NATO’s eastern border and reinforcing collective defence.
• Quick Reaction Alert: Providing 24/7 protection of UK airspace for homeland security.
• Operation Shader: Supporting counter-Daesh operations in Iraq and Syria.

(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

We are delighted to announce that James Kempston, CEO of NP Aerospace has been voted this year’s BATTLESPACE Businessman of the Year. The other candidate was Richard Lee CEO of AMD Inc.

James Kempston said, “I’m truly honoured — thank you so much. Congratulations as well to Richard and the AMD team — a well-fought and well-deserved recognition.”

The award will be made at our Gala Dinner on November 4th at the Celtic Manor Hotel by David Beckett who represents Erik Kaled President of SPX of Fremont, CA., USA, last year’s winner.

James Kempston is CEO and owner of NP Aerospace, the global armour manufacturer and vehicle integrator. He was a former director of NP Aerospace before acquiring the company from Morgan Advanced Materials PLC in 2018 in collaboration with Pasqua First Nation (PFN Group of Companies). He is from Ontario, Canada, and is a Western University Physics and Engineering graduate. He took on full ownership of the business after acquiring PFN’s shares in in 2022. In 2024, via NP Aerospace, he acquired certain assets and customers of Jankel Armouring Limited, effectively joining the two companies together. In the last five years, under the strategic direction and leadership of James and his executive team, NP Aerospace has achieved four fold growth in revenues – increasing turnover to over £60m at the end of 2024, exports to 60% of sales, and headcount to over 375 people. The company is a significant mid tier defence contractor, generating substantial supply chain growth and saving countless lives with its high performance armour and engineering solutions.

James is an accomplished Corporate Business Leader and entrepreneur, with extensive global experience as a Director and R&D Engineer specializing in Government Aerospace and Defence contracts. He previously worked for a technology business leading R&D armour and survivability programs before joining NP Aerospace in 2012 to manage the North American operation and global business development. As CEO for NP Aerospace, James is responsible for driving business growth both organically and through acquisition, along with defining strategic direction in existing and emerging markets, engaging with world leading ministries of defence. He brings a unique combination of technical and commercial leadership to the business and is committed to developing next generation products that improve and protect lives by combining advanced technologies and high-level threat protection.

09 Oct 25. Spectra Group, a specialist provider of secure voice, data and satellite communications systems, is announcing at AUSA, a unique Mobile Ad-hoc Networks (MANET) bridging solution using GENSS, the first of its kind over a BLOS satellite solution.  This tactical data solution, created in collaboration with software from 2iC, will deliver real time strategic level battlefield data via GENSS to remotely deployed tactical users.  The Spectra Group team will be on the ground at AUSA to discuss the exciting capabilities that GENSS offers for specialist and regular forces deployed to remote austere locations globally. Spectra’s SlingShot revolutionised tactical comms with over 10,000 systems fielded worldwide; GENSS builds on that legacy with even greater reach, flexibility, and data resilience.  GENSS (Next Generation SlingShot) takes all the successes and lessons learnt from SlingShot and embodies Spectra Group’s vision of producing the ultimate radio system that capitalises on technological advances, adapts to the evolving demands of military operations and simplifies the user experience.   In addition to being backwards compatible with SlingShot and being a powerful satellite software defined radio (SDR) in its own right, the GENSS delivered solution uses enhanced modulation and waveforms optimised to deliver a Data Network/MANET bridging capability to cope with extending the proliferation of wide band data usage (64KBps over a 25KHz channel) in the tactical battlespace beyond normal Line of Sight propagation. To maximise this ability to bridge MANET and other data networks, Spectra Group has collaborated with 2iC, a UK based global leader in battlespace software integration.  Their lean service architecture and integration products are used by MODs and defence primes all over the world to quickly, easily and securely connect the myriad of disparate devices, sensors and systems on the battlefield digitally.

Working together, Spectra Group and 2iC have delivered and continue to develop a series of ‘middleware’ applications, consisting of a combination of 2iCs operationally proven products such as 2iC NODE and TAK Module alongside the GENSS application software and its Open API radio firmware.  This combination allows for efficient data flow management to be delivered over narrow band L-TAC BLOS bearer systems and enable GENSS to be seamlessly interoperable with ATAK or other battlefield management systems.  The end user gets a simplified and unified battle picture across multiple terminals/access platforms over vast distances while on the move.  This means that not only does GENSS retain ultimate flexibility and interoperability as a software defined radio, but it also has an open architecture construct able to easily integrate with existing systems and rapidly adapt to future demands.

Graham Booth, CEO and Co-founder 2iC said, “We are very excited to bring our vast experience of delivering digital interoperability in the battlespace to our work with Spectra Group. Our proven off-the-shelf software, such as 2iC CONNECT:TAK, alongside our extensive experience with ATAK, are proving invaluable. Together we are developing bespoke software to maximise MANET capabilities and ensure GENSS is highly future proofed.”

Simon Perrett, Head of Research and Development at Spectra Group said, “It is very rewarding when you can work together with subject matter experts from different disciplines and collectively the output is greater than the sum of the individual parts.   Working with 2iC, we are maximising the capability and ease of use of GENSS in its MANET bridging role, which is a massive benefit to the user on the ground and goes to the heart of our ethos at Spectra Group.   GENSS is a step change in tactical radio capability and for the soldier on the ground, GENSS will be plug-and-play; delivering secure, simplified access to mission-critical data BLOS and on the move.”

28 Sep 25. To celebrate 21 years of the BATTLESPACE Businessman (BBOY) of The Year Award, we have built a dedicated voting page on the BATTLESPACE website, giving details of all previous winners and this years’ candidates Richard Lee CEO of Advanced Material Development (AMD) of Texas, USA and James Kempston, CEO of NP Aerospace, Coventry, UK.

The first BATTLESPACE Businessman of the Year Award was Mark Newman of DRS in 2004,  who went on to sell DRS for $5.2 billion to Finmeccancia in 2008. All our winners have contributed hugely to the defence industries of the UK, Europe and the USA.

It would be timely to give  a big thank you to Mark Newman and Leonardo DRS  in particular. When I met Mark at the Farnborough Airshow in 1998, he had inherited DRS from his father and the turnover was $980m; we hit it off and established a relationship which endures to this day.

Another big thank you is to Oxley Developments, whose Managing Director, the late Ann Oxley won a special award in 2022. Oxley was the first company to have a BATTLESPACE profile and again our relationship has endured.

It has been such a pleasure and honour working with all the winning companies and the individual concerned; it proves that the special touch and knowledge and drive of the individuals concerned can create a company which grows and endures throughout all states of the economy and world affairs. Their individualism and drive was the precursor for their nomination and award.

A big thank you to all those companies and individuals for supporting BATTLESPACE since I stared it in 1997.

Voting page

https://battle-updates.com/battlespace-businessman-of-the-year-award-comes-of-age/

The announcement will be made on October 11 with the award made at our Gala Dinner on November 4^th at the Celtic Manor Hotel by David Beckett who represents Erik Kaled President of SPX of Fremont, CA., USA, last year’s winner.

03 Sep  25. The organisers of the Chepstow Military Raceday are delighted to announce the inaugural Royal Hospital Chelsea Outreach Gala Dinner, hosted by General Sir Adrian and Lady Bradshaw, the Governor of the Royal Hospital Chelsea and his wife Sally.  The dinner is to be held on November 4th at The Celtic Manor Hotel.

https://www.celtic-manor.com/

General Sir Adrian Bradshaw, KCB, OBE, DL, will give a talk at the dinner addressing  Future Security Challenges for the UK and NATO From Heightened Russian Aggression

General Sir Adrian Bradshaw said, “The Royal Hospital is delighted to continue our support for the Chepstow Military Raceday and to launch our Gala Raceday Dinner this year. We are indebted to the Reuben Foundation for the wonderful donation of £10,000 this year, which will support our Veterans’ Outreach activities.  We look forward to involving the Reuben Foundation and Arena Leisure in our UK-wide Veterans’ Outreach programme.

“The Chelsea Pensioners’ Veterans’ Outreach program is designed to extend to Veterans from all three of our Armed Services, some of the comradeship and social life enjoyed by our In-Pensioners, resident here in Chelsea.  Spending time together socially is so important for Veterans and contributes significantly not only to their well-being and mental health, but also through the activities and the benefits of the Royal Hospital Active Agung program, their physical health.  Furthermore, whilst spending time with us we may become aware of problems and frustrations with their daily lives with which we can help through connecting them face-to-face with representatives of a variety of government, charitable and other organisations who can provide professional assistance.”

Julian Nettlefold of BATTLESPACE Publications says, “My original intention in launching our event at Chepstow in 2013 was to draw attention to not only the Veterans but their carers as due to limited facilities, families are split apart when specialist long-term care is required. The very generous donation of £10,000 by the Reuben Foundation this year, takes the total amount raised by the Chepstow Raceday’s to over £340,000 for The Royal Hospital, SSAFA and Combat Stress since 2013.”

“The inclusion of this Gala Dinner will give our guests more networking opportunities, and the chance to relax in the excellent surrounding of the Marriott after a hard day at the Conference. The auction, managed by Steve O’Leary, now retired, will be held during the dinner, together with whisky tasting and other activities. A portion of the ticket revenues will be donated to the charities.”

Jilly Carrell of the Royal Hospital said, “The issues my family were faced with by the sudden and tragic onset of my late husband’s brain tumour required constant contact with him and my girls, at a hospital which was near home so we could carry on life as near as normal, particularly as both my girls were at school.”

Luke Admans, General Manager – Chepstow Racecourse “ We’re delighted to be yet again partnering with Battlespace to host another raceday raising funds and awareness for veterans of the military services. We’re thrilled to be working with Julian and the wider team to help launch this inaugural Gala Dinner. Chepstow Racecourse are proud to be associated with a great cause and are pleased to be renewing that support for this event in an even bigger way this year. We’re looking forward to November, and the involvement we have with the conference, gala dinner and hosting the raceday event.”

The cost of a dinner ticket including a donation to charity is £75.00 + VAT including drink on arrival.  Please contact: Vanessa Hathaway: ;

Hotel Reservation: ttps://deltahotelsbymarriott.reservationscenter.com

For further details:

Amanda Skouse: ;

Julian Nettlefold:

Vanessa Hathaway: ;

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“As a veteran of campaigns in Northern Ireland, The Balkans, The Gulf, and latterly two prolonged and very demanding wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, I have seen many comrades leave the Services carrying injuries both mental and physical that will be with them in some form for life.

When interviewed by the Commissioners for the post of Governor I therefore stated that if I got the job I would not only do my utmost to ensure that the 300 or so Pensioners continue to be cared for to the highest standards, and to preserve our glorious buildings for them and for the Nation, but that I would seek to leverage the influence and reputation of the Royal Hospital Chelsea to provide more direct support to veterans, particularly the elderly, living outside our Chelsea home.

This important programme will deliver on the aspiration to provide Outreach services to tens of thousands of veterans from all three Services who live outside the Royal Hospital.”

General Sir Adrian Bradshaw
KCB OBE DL – Governor

31 Aug 25. Boost for UK Growth and Security as Norway Selects UK Warships in £10bn partnership.

Billions of pounds will be pumped into the UK economy following Norway’s decision to select British warships for their Armed Forces – securing thousands of jobs in Britain for years to come.

• Major export deal sustains 4,000 UK jobs including more than 2,000 in Scotland.
• £10bn boost to UK economy is expected to support more than 400 British companies, delivering on the Government’s Plan for Change.
• Norway’s biggest ever defence procurement deal will see a combined fleet of 13 Anti-Submarine Warfare frigates – eight British and at least five Norwegian – operate jointly in Northern Europe, significantly strengthening NATO’s northern flank.

The UK, in its biggest ever warship export deal by value, will supply Norway with Type 26 frigates designed for anti-submarine warfare in the deal worth £10bn announced today, a clear example of this Government is delivering on its Plan for Change.

The deal will support 4,000 jobs across the UK supply chain until well into the 2030s, including more than 2,000 at BAE Systems’ Glasgow shipyards. The programme is also expected to support 432 business, including 222 small and medium enterprises, across the UK including 103 in Scotland, 47 in the North West of England and 35 in the West Midlands.

Norway’s selection of the UK’s world leading Type 26 frigates builds on decades of close cooperation between close NATO allies and strengthens both nations’ strategic partnership and maritime security in the face of increasing Russian threats in northern Europe. Both Australia and Canada have also selected the design for Type 26 for their Navies.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “This £10bn deal is what our Plan for Change is about – creating jobs, driving growth and protecting national security for working people. This Government has forged new partnerships across the world to deliver for people at home and the export of our world leading Type 26 frigates to Norway will do exactly that, supporting well-paid jobs up and down the United Kingdom, from apprentices to engineers.  This success is testament to the thousands of people across the country who are not just delivering this next generation capabilities for our Armed Forces but also national security for the UK, our Norwegian partners and NATO for years to come.”

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Støre said: “Norway and the United Kingdom are close allies, with common interests and strong bilateral ties. I am confident that the strategic partnership with the UK for purchasing, developing and operating frigates is the right decision. This partnership enables Norway to reach the strategic objectives our Parliament set out in the current Long-Term Plan on Defence. The decision comes ahead of a new UK-Norway defence agreement that will strengthen Euro-Atlantic security while bringing the two countries’ defence industries closer together to boost jobs, growth, and innovation.   Norway’s operation of identical Type 26 ships alongside the Royal Navy hails the deepening of a long term-strategic relationship that will see a combined fleet of 13 Anti-Submarine Warfare frigates – eight British and at least five Norwegian – to detect, classify, track and defeat hostile submarines – significantly reinforcing NATO’s northern flank.  This ambitious partnership will also cover shared maintenance, extensive crew training, in-service support and personnel exchanges.   As outlined in this year’s Strategic Defence Review, Norway remains one of the United Kingdom’s most valued strategic allies, serving as the only nation participating in the UK Carrier Strike Group’s complete 2025 deployment whilst also collaborating with the UK and NATO partners in safeguarding critical undersea infrastructure in Northern Europe.”

Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said: “For over 75 years, Britain and Norway have stood together on NATO’s northern and north-eastern frontiers, keeping the UK and Europe safe. This historic defence deal deepens our strategic partnership. With Norway, we will train, operate, deter, and – if necessary – fight together. Our navies will work as one, leading the way in NATO, with this deal putting more world-class warships in the North Atlantic to hunt Russian submarines, protect our critical infrastructure, and keep both our nations secure. This deal confirms Britain’s defence industry as world-leading. It will support thousands of high-skilled jobs for the next 15 years and beyond, driving forward this Government’s Plan for Change and making defence an engine for growth.

On behalf of Team UK industry partners, Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive of BAE Systems, said: “The Norwegian Government’s decision reflects its confidence in British industry’s ability to deliver a superior anti-submarine warfare platform, together with systems and equipment, that will support its future maritime security and reinforce its position within NATO. We look forward to playing our part in further strengthening the strategic partnership between the UK and Norway, as we work together with Norwegian industry to deliver this important capability to the Royal Norwegian Navy.The Type 26 features sophisticated weapons, advanced sensors, and cutting-edge communications, with a flexible design that enables future upgrades to counter emerging threats. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

15 Jul 25. Cuashub.com said today that Ukraine deploys new counter-drone rifle rounds. As small drones play an increasingly central role on the frontlines of the Russia-Ukraine war, Ukraine has begun fielding a new type of ammunition designed specifically to counter them. The new counter-UAS rifle rounds, which can be fired from standard NATO assault rifles, aim to provide Ukrainian troops with an accessible and lightweight method for defending against drone attacks without the need for specialized equipment. The development comes as both Russia and Ukraine lean heavily on small, low-cost drones for reconnaissance and strike missions, a trend that has significantly reshaped ground tactics over the past three years. With large armored formations proving highly vulnerable to drone observation and attack, both sides have transitioned to more dispersed troop deployments. However, small infantry formations remain exposed to drone threats, often lacking adequate point-defense capabilities.

The new round appears to be Ukraine’s answer to this gap.

On June 30, Brave1, a Ukrainian defense tech initiative backed by the government, posted a video on social media showing soldiers firing at a small drone using the new ammunition. According to the footage, the round is compatible with common Ukrainian service rifles like the M4 and CZ Bren. Rather than a traditional bullet, the round breaks apart mid-flight into several high-velocity pellets, creating a spread pattern similar to a shotgun blast. While the exact specifications have not been released, Ukrainian defense outlet Militarnyi reports that the round disperses into approximately five projectiles and is effective against drones at ranges of up to 50 meters. The design allows for rapid-fire engagement of low-flying drones without requiring specialized training or equipment. In its post, Brave1 stated that production is ramping up, with the goal of supplying at least one magazine of the new rounds per soldier. The concept is simple: when a drone is detected, soldiers can switch from their standard ammunition to a magazine containing the counter-drone rounds, enabling a near-instant response without the need to deploy separate weapons systems. This flexibility may prove especially valuable during Russia’s ongoing summer offensive. Moscow has increasingly relied on small drones to scout Ukrainian defensive positions ahead of infantry or armored advances, often replacing more expensive artillery spotting with real-time aerial surveillance. These drones, typically launched in swarms, can relay targeting information or drop munitions with relative impunity if unchallenged. Ukrainian forces, facing resource constraints of their own, have often been forced to improvise solutions to drone threats. While electronic warfare remains a critical tool, it does not guarantee protection against all drones, especially those operating at short ranges or using hardened links. The new rounds represent a low-cost, scalable solution that aligns with Ukraine’s broader strategy of asymmetric defense. https://cuashub.com/en/content/ukraine-deploys-new-counter-drone-rifle-rounds/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)

Protecting Critical Sporting Infrastructure and Events

Chepstow Racecourse 4-5 November 2025

BATTLESPACE and Chepstow Racecourse are delighted to announce the inaugural Chepstow Military Drone Raceday on November 4^th in association with the British Army Drone Sport Association

In addition, subject to the safety case, we hope to have a number of close combat shotgun and rifle Counter -UAS systems displayed live

We also have a slot for a ‘Chepstow Military Raceday’ C-UAS provider who can provide a Counter UAV Patrol over the 2 days and be named ‘official Chepstow Military Raceday C-UAS Provider,’ with the added online and BATTLESPACE Features and logos

To accommodate a great day’s drone racing, we have changed the Conference Programme which will now take place on November 5^th with an earlier start

Ticket Holders for racing on November 5^th have free entry to the Drone Racing on the 4^th.

On course refreshments are available and also available for sponsorship

Agenda

Day One – 4 November 2025

09:00: Registration

09:00 – Chairman’s Welcome and Introduction – Brigadier Ian Cameron-Mowat (Online recording available for day 2 visitors)

09:30 – Introducing the Inaugural Chepstow Military Raceday Drone Racing and Teams – Karl Eze, CEO Point Zenith

10:00 – Drone Racing and C-UAS Demonstrations, also streamed online

12:30 – Lunch Break – sponsorship available

13:00 – Drone racing and demonstrations continue

16:00 – Day ends – Tea sponsorship available

Delta Hotels by Marriott St Pierre Country Club

https://deltahotelsbymarriott.reservationscenter.com/hotel/

18:30 – Drinks Reception – Sponsorship Available – £500

20:00 – Royal Hospital Chelsea Outreach Gala Dinner – Sponsorship Available – £1100/US$1474 including 2 places on top table with General Sir Adrian Bradshaw, KCB, OBE and Lady Bradshaw

21:30 – BBOY Award Presentation

22:00 – Charity Auction by Steve O’Leary

Day 2 – Conference & Racing

Exploring Regulatory, Technological, and Insurance Challenges

08:15 – Registration and Breakfast

08:45 – Chairman’s Welcome and Introduction – Brigadier Ian Cameron-Mowat (Online recording available for day 2 visitors)

09:00 – Keynote – Applying Martyn’s Law Regulations – Adie Brown – Group Head of Health and Safety for Arena Leisure (ARC)

09:20 – Security Challenges Facing Racing Venues – Ian Mixter – ARC Health and Safety

09:40 – Keynote Protecting Important Visitors from Drone Incursions – David Beckett Business Development – Battlespace, TCI ECS – TBC

10:00 – Coffee Break

11:10– Police Compliance required to Comply with Martyn’s Law – Gwent Police – TBC

11:20 – Crowd Protection at Sporting Venues – TBC

11:40 – The Requirement for Portable C-UAS Systems – TBC

12:00 – Cheque Presentation by ARC to General Sir Adrian and Lady Bradshaw, Governor of the Royal Hospital

12:05 – Chelsea Pensioners Ring the Bell to start Racing

12:15 – Introduction to Chepstow Raceday

12:20 – Tipster talk – Roger Hart

12:25 – Pre Lunch Drinks and raffle sales

13:00 – Lunch and Racing starts

16:00 – Raffle Results

16:30 – Chelsea Pensioner Choir Finale

19:00 – Carriages

Ticket bookings: 

Vanessa Hathaway:

Conference Paper and Exhibition Stand bookings:

Julian Nettlefold:

Craig Taylor:

Drone Team Bookings: 

Chosen Charities: SSAFA, Combat Stress, Royal Hospital Chelsea Outreach Programme

Book Now and get 15% off advertised Rates

Quote Code: PCIEB

Chepstow Racecourse 4-5 November 2025

The Growing Threat of Drone Incursions

Drone incursions pose a rapidly escalating risk to the safety and security of critical sporting events. In the horse racing sector, unauthorised drones are increasingly being used for illegal streaming, providing real-time footage to gambling syndicates and bypassing official broadcast rights. Beyond financial losses, these activities compromise venue security, distract participants, and jeopardise the welfare of animals and attendees. Recent advancements in drone technology, including increased flight range, payload capacity, and autonomous navigation, have made detection and mitigation more challenging. Furthermore, with drones capable of carrying dangerous payloads, the potential for malicious attacks looms large. This highlights the urgent need for sporting venues to adopt robust counter-drone systems and ensure compliance with Martyn’s Law to protect visitors, participants, and infrastructure.

Join Us in Protecting the Future of UK Sports

Don’t miss this vital opportunity to engage with the experts driving innovation and security in the face of increasing drone threats. Whether you’re a policymaker, event organiser, or technology developer, this event is your chance to stay ahead of the curve. Secure your place now and be part of the conversation shaping the future of sporting event safety.

Prices

Single Ticket: £120/US$160 +VAT

Table of 10: £1200/US$1608 + VAT

Demonstration Morning only: £50/US$67 + VAT

Online Conference link: £70/$95

Conference Paper plus Shell Scheme Stand and Day 2 demo and Racing: £1500/US$2010 + VAT including three delegate/Raceday tickets*

Conference Paper only and Day 2 demo: £1000/US$1340 + VAT including two delegate/Raceday tickets**

Shell Scheme and Day 2 demo: £900/US$1206 + VAT including one delegate/Raceday ticket***

Shell Scheme only: £500/US$670 + VAT including one delegate/Raceday ticket***

Conference Day 1 only £300/US$402pp+ VAT

Streaming link Day 1 only £70/US$94+ VAT

Gala Dinner including drink on arrival:  £75.00pp+VAT (not included in Early Bird Discount)

* Includes Headline Banner and Hyperlink on Web Site and Show Daily x2, Full Page Advertisement and Feature in BATTLESPACE Conference Issue

**Includes Hyperlink on Web Site, Full Page Advertisement and Feature in BATTLESPACE Conference Issue

*** Includes Hyperlink on Web Site, Half Page Advertisement in BATTLESPACE Conference Issue

The dinner rate includes a donation to our Charities of £5 per ticket

A donation for all three Charities will be made from the Conference income

To book and claim the 15% discount contact with cCode: PCIEB:

Julian Nettlefold:

Vanessa Hathaway: ;

Analysis current as of 0730hrs (BST), 22 June 2025

EVENT

Earlier on 22 June, US President Donald Trump announced that the US had conducted airstrikes targeting three key nuclear facilities in Iran, destroying uranium enrichment facilities in Fordow (Qom province) and Natanz (Isfahan province), and another unspecified facility in Isfahan province. Iranian authorities have confirmed that US airstrikes targeted the facilities, though state media denied that the facilities have been ‘irreversibly damaged’.

SIGNIFICANCE

* The strikes mark a major escalation between the US and Iran and comes amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war (see Sibylline Special Report – 20 June 2025). Trump stated that US military ‘worked as a team’ with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and that the strikes underscore the US’s support for Israel’s efforts to neutralise Iran’s nuclear programme.

* Trump stated that the US would conduct further strikes unless Iran ‘make[s] peace’. This almost certainly refers to Iran making significant concessions regarding its nuclear programme during negotiations with the US.

* At 0345hrs (local time), Israel’s Home Front Command raised the nationwide threat to ‘critical’ amid concerns of a major Iranian retaliation. This guidance bans all public gatherings and only allows essential businesses to operate.

* Iranian authorities have stated that all nuclear material had been removed from the targeted sites prior to US airstrikes, underscoring broader efforts to moderate risks of nuclear incidents or safety breaches amid continued strikes on enrichment and uranium stockpile facilities.

FORECAST

Iran will likely directly respond to US strikes by targeting US military installations in the region, increasing conflict escalation risks. In the coming hours, Iranian authorities will likely continue working to determine the impact of strike action on the facilities’ operationality and Iran’s nuclear programme; the extent of damage to the facilities will likely influence the intensity of Iran’s response to strike action. In the coming days, Iran will likely mobilise efforts to conduct strikes targeting US assets and installations in the region, substantially increasing regional tensions. Strike action will likely primarily target US installations in Iraq, particularly the Al-Asad Airbase (Al Anbar governorate) and Harir Air Base (Erbil governorate), while strikes targeting US positions in Syria such as the Abu Hajar airfield (al-Hasakah governorate) and the Al-Tanf garrison (Rif Dimashq governorate) are also possible. Though less likely, there is also a realistic possibility that Iran will retaliate against US strike action by targeting US assets and installations in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE, increasing conflict spillover risks. If Iran attempts to target US assets and installations in the region, the US would highly likely conduct further strikes within Iran, possibly targeting military and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) installations and assets, increasing risks of conflict escalation.

Iran is highly likely to mobilise its proxies to target US bases in the region, compounding security and bystander risks for proximate installations, as well as commercial vessels moving through the Red Sea. Iran is highly likely to call for proxy mobilisation in Iraq, with elements of the Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI) likely resuming attacks targeting US bases and possibly resuming drone attacks targeting Israel in the coming days. Such attacks will increase risks of retaliatory US and Israeli strikes targeting locations associated with proxy activity, driving conflict escalation and ethno-religious tensions therein. The Yemen-based Houthis will also likely resume attacks on US and Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea in the coming days, significantly increasing security risks for vessels traversing the Bab el-Mandeb and sustaining significant pressure on global supply chains. However, Lebanese Hizballah (LH) is unlikely to resume attacks on Israel in the coming weeks due to broader capacity limitations, moderating prospects for an escalation on the Israel-Lebanon border. Even so, Iran-backed militant groups and factions in Lebanon and Syria will possibly attempt to conduct low-capacity rocket attacks targeting northern Israel in the coming days, likely triggering Israeli airstrikes targeting infrastructure and locations associated with militant activity. A general escalation in proxy attacks targeting Israel and the US will increase risks of regional conflict escalation, while compounding security and bystander risks for locally engaged staff.

Amid escalating regional tensions, concerns that Iran will restrict movement through the Strait of Hormuz will likely trigger substantial volatility on global energy markets. Although Iran is unlikely to unilaterally close the Strait of Hormuz in the coming days, there is a realistic possibility that Iran will attempt to restrict the passage of vessels through waterway to maximise economic pressure on the US and Israel and deter further airstrikes. The Strait is a critical maritime route through which approximately 25% of the world’s crude oil supply and 20% of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade flow. Such a closure would severely disrupt crude oil exports from Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, triggering global crude price surges, significant shocks across international energy markets and substantially undermining global supply chain continuity. Amid increasing concerns that Iran will restrict passage through the Strait, oil exporters will likely attempt to expedite shipments from the Gulf to receiving markets, increasing risks of bottlenecks and vessel collisions in the coming days.

In the coming days, Iranian hostilities towards Israel will likely intensify, with missile and drone attacks sustaining security risks in Israel and disrupting travel through regional airspace. By 0900hrs (local time) on 22 June, Iran had launched at least three missile barrages towards Israel; this marks a moderate increase in the frequency of missile attacks compared to recent days and almost certainly reflects Iranian efforts to retaliate against US strikes on nuclear facilities. In the coming days, Iran will likely attempt to intensify missile attacks targeting Israel, likely employing heavier munitions (including one-tonne missiles; see Sibylline Middle East Crisis Update – 19 June 2025) and cluster munitions to increase pressure on Israeli air defences. In response, Israel is highly likely to continue intensifying airstrikes within Iran, possibly increasing targeting of Iranian energy infrastructure and/or expanding the ongoing assassination campaign targeting nuclear scientists and military personnel to include high-ranking political figures. Such intensification will likely undermine prospects for diplomatic de-escalation, sustaining significant operational disruption in both Iran and Israel. Regional airspace closures and flight suspensions are also highly likely to remain in place in the coming days, restricting access to commercially available evacuation routes. Broader disruption to airline operations (including route diversions away from impacted airspace) will also sustain risks of delays to intercontinental flights, increasing travel costs and risks of supply chain disruption.

In the coming days, risks of anti-US demonstrations in the broader region will increase, driving risks of unrest and hostility to US-linked investment. In the coming days, risks of anti-US protests and unrest will increase throughout the region, particularly in Iraq and Yemen, as well as in Shia-majority areas in Lebanon and Syria. Demonstrations will likely target around US embassies and will possibly spread to also target entities associated with the US, including retail outlets, hospitality venues and NGOs, increasing risks of targeted unrest, violence and vandalism for locally engaged firms, particularly in Iraq. More broadly, risks of anti-US protests will also remain elevated in Algeria, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Turkey and Venezuela, increasing risks of temporary travel and operational disruption in the immediate vicinity of protest sites. Anti-war protests are also highly likely to escalate in the coming days, particularly in the US, with large-scale demonstrations increasing localised transit and supply chain disruption risks in major urban centres including Chicago (Illinois), New York (New York), Los Angeles and San Francisco (California), Seattle (Washington) and the capital Washington DC.

11 Jun 25. IEE Under Contract with L3Harris for Viper Shield™ Line Replaceable Unit (LRU) Displays. IEE, manufacturer of field-proven military displays, is moving into the production phase of a contract with L3Harris to deliver hundreds of 3ATI Electric Warfare (EW) Multi-Function Displays (MFDs) following the recent first-flight success of the Viper Shield digital electronic warfare  system in the single-seat F-16 Block 70. As the cockpit display portion of a multi-LRU EW System (EWS), IEE’s 3ATI is a critical part of the Viper Shield system.

The full-color 3ATI is a smart display that presents threat data as well as diagnostic functions for the EWS. It also functions as the aircrew controller of the EWS. Through six system control buttons, the unit provides controls to start built-in test, prioritize threats, change modes, and mute audio. It can also give selective menus to regulate and change mission characteristics of the EWS. It features a two-position brightness control button to regulate the screen brightness from NVIS through daylight readable luminance.

“IEE has been working with L3Harris on this game changing technology for several years, and we continue to support the development and production of this 3ATI for the all-digital electronic warfare suite,” said Steve Motter, VP of Business Development. “We congratulate the Viper Shield team for a successful first flight and are happy to have entered the production phase of this exciting project.”

IEE’s 3ATI is customizable to size, resolution, interface and bezel design.

Product Features and Specifications

• Active display area: 2.38” x 2.38″
• 24-bit color
• 480 x 480 pixel resolution, RGB vertical stripe arrangement
• Choice of bezel buttons or control knob
• Backlit LED
• Adjustable brightness control, day/night mode
• MIL-STD-1553B and RS-422 Tx/Rx (x2) serial interface; other interfaces available
• Processor: DM370 System on Module (SOM) with:

o ARM® Cortex® -A8 at 800 MHz, 256/512 or 512/512 MB DRAM/Flash

o TMS320C64x+™ DSP core at 800 MHz

o POWER SGX™ graphics accelerator

About IEE:

For over 75 years, IEE has been a trusted provider of enhanced displays for military and industrial applications. From rapid prototyping of custom designs to full-scale production runs, IEE’s factory in Sylmar, CA produces innovative displays with advanced features like low-latency video processing, high-bright and NVIS backlighting, and lightweight, ruggedized enclosures. IEE’s direct control of critical process steps reduces costs, decreases production lead times and improves lifecycle management. IEE display products are distributed worldwide. IEE is ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certified. For more information: visit ieeinc.com

Chepstow Critical Infrastructure Conference Highlights The Implementation of Martyn’s Law

Martyn’s Law, officially the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, received Royal Assent on April 3, 2025, but it’s not yet in effect. The implementation period is expected to be at least 24 months, meaning the legal requirements won’t be enforceable until that period is over. While the law mandates security measures for public venues, it’s not yet a legal obligation for those within the scope of the Act to comply until it’s brought into force by regulations.

The Chepstow Critical Infrastructure Conference held at Chepstow Racecourse from 4 -5 November, 2025, will Feature Papers given by experts in their field in managing facilities to comply with Martyn’s Law, police experts on the implementation of Martyn’s Law and companies engaged in the supply and manufacture of advanced C-UAS and other system tailored to protect racecourses and other facilities.

Current Speaker Programme

Chepstow Racecourse 4-5 November 2025

Please submit Papers for Protecting Critical Sporting Infrastructure and Events

Agenda

Day One – 4 November 2025

Exploring Regulatory, Technological, and Insurance Challenges

10:00 – Registration and Breakfast

10:30 – Chairman’s Welcome and Introduction – Brigadier Ian Cameron-Mowat

10:50 – Keynote – Applying Martyn’s Law Regulations – Adie Brown – Group Head of Health and Safety for Arena Leisure (ARC)

11:10 – Security Challenges Facing Racing Venues – Ian Mixter – Arena Leisure ARC Health and Safety Officer

11:30 – Coffee Break

12:00 – Keynote: Protecting Important Visitors from Drone Incursions – David Beckett Business Development – Battlespace, TCI ECS – TBC

12:20 – Police Compliance required to Comply with Martyn’s Law – Gwent Police – TBC

12:40 – Lunch Break – Sponsorship Available – £500/US670 coffee, lunch and tea

13.40 – Dual use Technology For Critical Infrastructure Protection – Denys Demko, First Secretary, Ukraine Embassy – TBC

14:00 – Insurance Compliance Challenges For Venues

14:20 – The Requirement for Portable C-UAS Systems

14:40 – Crowd Protection at Sporting Venues

15:00 – Crowd, Animal and Team Protection at Sporting Venues

15:20 – Tea Break – Sponsorship Available

16:00 – The Challenges of Illegal Streaming of live Horse racing

16:20 – Identifying the Drone Threat by Advanced databases

17:00 – Q&A Panel Discussion

Delta Hotels by Marriott St Pierre Country Club

https://deltahotelsbymarriott.reservationscenter.com/hotel/

18:30 – Drinks Reception – Sponsorship Available – £500

20:00 – Royal Hospital Chelsea Outreach Gala Dinner – Sponsorship Available – £1100/US$1474 including 2 places on top table with General Sir Adrian Bradshaw, KCB, OBE and Lady Bradshaw

21:30 – BBOY Award Presentation

22:00 – Charity Auction by Steve O’Leary

Day Two – 5 November 2025

Live Demonstrations and Racing

The Morning prior to racing will allow companies to demonstrate their C-UAS technologies live to prospective sporing venue customers.

There will be live C-UAS Technologies during racing to prevent any drone incursions to protect the horses and the crowd

Prices

Conference Event Platinum Sponsor Ticket including Race Sponsorship, Shell Scheme, Conference Paper and Attendance for 10*

Table of 10 £4,500.00/US$6030 + VAT

Conference and Racing Event Gold Sponsor Ticket including Race Sponsorship, Shell Scheme, Conference Paper and Attendance for 10**

Table of 10 £3,500.00/US$4690 + VAT

Racing Event Gold Sponsor Ticket including Race Sponsorship

Table of 10 £2,500.00/US$3350 + VAT *

Conference and Racing Event Silver Ticket including Conference Paper and Shell Scheme:

£150/US$201+VAT single ticket

£2200/US$3146 + VAT per table of 10 **

Racing Event Silver Ticket:

£120/US$160 +VAT single ticket

£1200/US$1608 + VAT per table of 10**

30% Discount for ADS, MakeUK Defence, Arena Leisure, Racecourse Association, Jockey Club, BHA

Martyn’s Law Factsheet

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also known as Martyn’s Law, received Royal Assent on Thursday 3 April 2025.

This Act delivers the Government’s manifesto commitment to strengthen the security of public premises and events.

The Government would like to pay tribute to Figen Murray, mother of Martyn Hett, who was killed in the Manchester Arena attack.  Her campaigning has been crucial in driving this Act forward.

The Government intends for there to be an implementation period of at least 24 months before the Act comes into force. This will allow the SIA’s new function to be established, whilst ensuring those responsible for premises and events in scope have sufficient time to understand their new obligations. This will enable them to plan and prepare appropriately.

Please refer to our wider factsheets and legislation documentation which can be found on GOV.UK.

What does Martyn’s Law do?

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025¹, also commonly referred to as Martyn’s Law, will improve protective security and organisational preparedness across the UK by requiring that those responsible for certain premises and events consider how they would respond to a terrorist attack. In addition to this, at certain larger premises and events, appropriate steps to reduce vulnerability to terrorist attacks must also be considered. Through the Act, qualifying premises and events should be better prepared and protected, ready to respond in the event of a terrorist attack.

Whilst those that fall within scope of the Act may wish to begin considering the requirements, they should note that guidance will be published in due course. This guidance will assist in understanding the requirements set out in the legislation. The guidance is being designed to be easy to follow, needing neither particular expertise nor the use of third-party products or services.

To support enforcement of the regime, a regulator will be established through a new function of the Security Industry Authority (SIA), which will support, advise and guide those responsible for premises and events in meeting the requirements of this legislation.

How will it work? 

The Act establishes a tiered approach, linked to the number of individuals it is reasonable to expect may be present at the same time at premises and events.

Who will be in scope?

Premises that satisfy the following four criteria fall within scope of the Act:

1. There is at least one building (or the premises are in a building);

1. The premises are wholly or mainly used for one or more of the uses specified at Schedule 1 to the Act, e.g. a restaurant or a shop;

1. It is reasonable to expect that at least 200 individuals may be present at least occasionally; and

1. The premises are not excluded under Schedule 2 to the Act

If 800 or more individuals may be expected, the premises will be an enhanced duty premises unless the Act says otherwise.

An event that satisfies the following criteria fall within scope of the Act:

1. It will take place at premises within section 3(1)(a) of the Act, including land without buildings, that are not enhanced duty premises (or part of enhanced duty premises);

1. The relevant premises are accessible to members of the public for the purpose of the event;

1. It is reasonable to expect that there will be at least 800 individuals present for the event at once at some point during it;

1. There will be measures to check entry conditions are met, such as a ticket checks; and

1. The event is not excluded under Schedule 2 to the Act.

Who is the responsible person for qualifying premises? ​

For qualifying premises, the responsible person is the person who has control of the premises in connection with their relevant Schedule 1 use (e.g. the use of a venue as a sports ground or a hotel). Where there is more than one Schedule 1 use (e.g. a church that also has a creche), it will be the person in control of the premises in connection with whichever Schedule 1 use is the principal use.

Who is the responsible person for qualifying events?

For qualifying events, the responsible person is the person who has control of the premises at which the event will be held for the purposes of the event. The circumstances of the event will need to be considered to determine who the responsible person is. For example, if a concert is to be held in a park and the company putting on the event takes control of an area of the park for the purposes of that concert, the company putting on the event will be the responsible person. Conversely, if a stately home puts on a concert in its grounds and maintains control of the site for the purposes of that concert, the stately home will be the responsible person. This would be the case even if the stately home contracted organisations to do aspects of the event (e.g. to provide door security or ticketing).

What are the requirements for standard duty premises?

Standard duty premises are generally those where it is reasonable to expect that between 200 and 799 individuals (including staff) may be present at the same time at least occasionally. The responsible person will be required to:

• notify the Security Industry Authority (SIA) of their premises; and

• have in place, so far as reasonably practicable, appropriate public protection procedures.

These public protection procedures are those which should be followed by people working at the premises if an act of terrorism were to occur at the premises, or in the immediate vicinity. They are procedures which may be expected to reduce the risk of physical harm being caused to individuals relating to evacuation, invacuation (moving people to a safe place), locking down the premises, and communicating with individuals on the premises.

The requirements for standard duty premises are centred around simple, low-cost activities with costs relating primarily to time spent. There is no requirement to put in place physical measures.

What are the requirements for enhanced duty premises and qualifying events?

Enhanced duty premises and qualifying events are premises or events where it is reasonable to expect that 800 or more individuals (including staff numbers) may be present on the premises at least occasionally² or attend the event at the same time. In addition to the same requirements as standard duty premises (above), the person responsible for enhanced duty premises and qualifying events will additionally be required to:

• have in place, so far as reasonably practicable, appropriate public protection measures that could be expected to reduce both (i) the vulnerability of the premises or event to an act of terrorism, and (ii) the risk of physical harm being caused to individuals if an attack was to occur there or nearby. For example, enhanced duty premises will be required, so far as is reasonably practicable, to implement measures relating to the monitoring of the premises and their immediate vicinity;

• document the public protection procedures and measures in place, or proposed to be put in place, and provide this document to the SIA. This document should include an assessment of how the public protection procedures and measures reduce vulnerability and/or the risk of harm; and

• Where the responsible person is not an individual, they must designate a senior individual with responsibility for ensuring that the responsible person complies with these requirements.

How to assess how many individuals are reasonably expected to be present? 

A range of methods can be used to make a reasonable assessment. This includes methods which those responsible for premises and events may already be familiar with, e.g. safe occupancy calculations for the purposes of fire safety or use of historic data.

How will Martyn’s Law be enforced? 

To support enforcement of the regime, a new regulatory function will be established within the Security Industry Authority (SIA). The SIA will seek to support, advise and guide those responsible for premises and events in meeting the requirements of this legislation. Where there are instances of serious or persistent non-compliance the SIA will be able to take enforcement action including compliance notices, monetary penalties and restriction notices. The legislation also includes some criminal offences. The SIA must prepare statutory guidance about how it will discharge its functions under the Act, which must be approved by the Home Secretary before it is published.

There will be a period of time prior to the implementation of the legislation, i.e. when it will come into force. We expect this period to be at least 24 months to allow for the set-up of the regulator and to ensure sufficient time for those responsible for premises and events in scope to understand their new obligations before they come into force, being able to plan and prepare accordingly.

How will my business or organisation be supported on Martyn’s Law? 

Guidance will be provided in due course to assist those in scope to understand the requirements set out in the legislation. The guidance is being designed to be easy to follow, needing neither particular expertise nor the use of third-party products or services.

The Home Office continues to build on the materials already published in relation to this legislation. This includes a bespoke landing page on Protect UK, Government factsheets which set out key aspects of the legislation, social media promotion, various press releases, media briefings, and our substantial stakeholder engagement campaign.

Our intention is to augment and further strengthen our communications during the implementation period, to support duty holders and raise awareness amongst the public.

Will Martyn’s Law apply to all of the UK?  

The legislation will apply across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland to ensure consistency in keeping the public safe across all parts of the United Kingdom.

We have been working closely with stakeholders and the Devolved Governments throughout the development of this Act.

Why have we introduced Martyn’s Law?

Since March 2017, Counter Terrorism Policing assesses that there have been 15 domestic terror attacks in the UK (not including Northern Ireland-related terrorism), and security services and law enforcement have together disrupted 43 late-stage plots.

The threat picture is complex, evolving and enduring, with terrorists choosing to attack a broad range of locations. It is not possible to predict where in the UK an attack might happen, or the type of premises or event that could be impacted – either directly as the target of an attack, or indirectly by being located near to the target of an attack.

Engagement with business indicates that preparedness and protective security in the counter-terrorism space often falls behind areas where there are long-established legal requirements, such as health and safety. The police, security services, and other partners continue to do all they can to combat the terror threat; and many businesses and organisations already do excellent work to improve their security and preparedness. However, the absence of legislative requirements means there is no consistency of consideration or of outcomes achieved.

That is what this Act seeks to address.

Charities: Royal Hospital Chelsea Outreach, SSAFA, Combat Stress

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02 Jun 25. Statement from Defence Secretary John Healey on the Strategic Defence Review.

With permission, Mr Speaker, I would like to make a statement on the Strategic Defence Review.

And I have laid the full 130-page review report first before this house. I am grateful to be able to make this statement on the first day back from recess.

Mr Speaker, the world has changed, and we must respond.

The SDR is our Plan for Change for Defence.

A plan to meet the threats we face.

A plan to step up on European Security and lead in NATO.

A plan that learns the lessons from Ukraine.

A plan to seize the defence dividend from our record increase in defence investment, to boost jobs and growth throughout the United Kingdom.

And a plan to put the men and women of our Armed Forces at the heart of our defence plans: better pay, better kit, better housing.

Through the SDR will make our Armed Forces stronger, and the British people safer.

I’d like to thank those who led the SDR… Lord Robertson of Port Ellen, General Barrons and Dr Fiona Hill.

“The politician, the soldier, and a foreign policy expert”, as they say themselves in their forward. They have put in a huge effort, alongside others.

This is a first-of-its-kind, externally led review.

A process, in which we received 8 000 submissions from experts, individuals, organisations, and MPs from across the House, including the Shadow Defence Secretary.

I thank them all – and I thank those in the MOD who have contributed to this SDR.

This is not just the government’s review it is Britain’s defence review.

And so, the government endorses the SDR’s vision, accepts its 62 recommendations, which will be implemented.

Mr Speaker, the threats we face is now more serious and less predictable than at any time since the of Cold War.

We face war in Europe, growing Russian aggression, new nuclear risks, and daily cyber-attacks at home.

Our adversaries are working more in alliance with one another, while technology is changing the way war is fought.

We are in a new era of threat, which demands a new era for UK Defence.

Mr Speaker, since the General Election we have demonstrated that we are a government dedicated to delivering for defence.

Committing the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War… £5bn extra this year, 2.5% in 2027, the ambition to 3% in the next parliament.

Mr Speaker, there can be no investment without reform.

And so we are already driving also the deepest reforms to defence in 50 years.

And these will ensure clearer responsibilities, better delivery, stronger budget control and new efficiencies, worth £6 billion in this parliament, money all of which will be reinvested directly into defence.

Mr Speaker, our Armed Forces will always do what’s needed to keep the nation safe –24/7, in more than 50 countries around the world.

But in a more dangerous world, the SDR confirms that we must move to warfighting readiness.

Warfighting readiness means stronger deterrence.

We need stronger deterrence to avoid the huge costs, human and economic that wars create.

And we prevent wars by being strong enough to fight and win them. And that is what has made NATO the most successful defence alliance in history, over the last 75 years.

So Mr Speaker, we will establish a “New Hybrid Navy” by:

… building Dreadnought, AUKUS submarines, cutting-edge warships and new autonomous vessels.

Our carriers will carry the first hybrid airwings in Europe.

We will develop the next generation RAF with:

F35s, upgraded Typhoons, 6th Gen GCAP and autonomous fighters, to defend Britain’s skies and be able to strike anywhere in the world.

And we will make the British Army 10 times more lethal by:

Combining the future technology of drones, autonomy and AI with the heavy metal tanks and artillery.

Mr Speaker for too long, our Army has been asked to do more with less.

We inherited a long run recruitment crisis – [political content removed].

Reversing this decline will take time but we are acting to stem the loss now and aiming to increase the British Army to at least 76,000 full time soldiers in the next parliament.

Mr Speaker, for the first time in a generation, we are a government who want the number of regular soldiers to rise.

In our homeland, Mr Speaker, this a government that will protect our island home, we’ll do so by:

Committing £1bn in new funding to homeland air and missile defences,  by creating a new CyberEM Command to defend Britain in the grey zone and by preparing legislation to improve defence readiness.

Mr. Speaker, as Ukraine shows a country’s armed forces are only as strong as the industry that stands behind them.

So this SDR begins a new partnership with industry, with innovators and with investors, we will make engine. We will make defence an engine for growth, an engine for growth to create jobs and increase prosperity in every nation and every region of the UK.

Take our nuclear enterprise.

We will commit 15 billion pounds in investment into the sovereign warhead programme in this Parliament, supporting over 9000 jobs. We will establish continuous submarine production through investments in Barrow and in Derby, that will allow us to produce a submarine every 18 months, allowing us to grow our nuclear attack submarine fleet to up to 12 submarines, supporting more than 20,000 jobs.

And on munitions, we will invest 6 billion pounds in this Parliament, including for six new munitions factories and up to 7000 new long-range weapons, supporting nearly 2000 jobs.

Mr. Speaker, the lives of workers in Barrow or Derby or Govan, where I was with the Prime Minister this morning, are being transformed, not just by this defence investment, but by the pride and purpose that comes with work that comes with defence work. And in the coming years, more communities and more working people will benefit from the defence dividend that this brings.

Mr. Speaker Ukraine also tells us that whoever gets new technology into the hands of their armed forces fastest will have the advantage. So we will place Britain at the leading edge of innovation in NATO.

We will double investment into autonomous systems this parliament. We will invest more than a billion pounds to integrate our armed forces through a new digital targeting web, and we will finance a £400 million UK Defence Innovation organization.

Mr. Speaker, to ensure that Britain gains the maximum benefit from what we invent and what we produce in this country, we will create a new defence exports office in the MOD, driving exports to our allies and driving growth at home.

Mr. Speaker, the SDR sets a new vision, a new framework for defence investment.

The work to confirm a new defence investment plan, superseding the last government’s defence equipment plan, will be completed in the autumn.

It will ensure our frontline forces get what they need when they need it.

The plan will be deliverable. It will be affordable. It will consider infrastructure alongside capabilities. It will seize the opportunities of advanced tech, and it will seize the opportunities to grow the British economy.

And Mr. Speaker, as we lose the national service generation, fewer families across this country have a direct connection to the armed forces. And so we must do more to reconnect the nation with those who defend us.

And so as the SDR recommends, we will increase the number of cadets by 30%, we will introduce a voluntary Gap Year scheme for school and college leavers, and we will develop a new strategic reserve by 2030.

Mr. Speaker, we must also renew the nation’s contract with those who serve. We’ve already awarded the biggest pay increase in over 20 years, an inflation busting increase this year. And now I’ve announced we will invest 7 billion pounds of funding this parliament for military accommodation, including 1.5bn of new money for rapid work to deal with the scandal of military family homes.

Mr. Speaker, this SDR is the first defence review in a generation for growth and for transformation in UK defence. It will end 14 years of hollowing out in our armed forces, and instead, we will see investment increased, the Navy expanded, the army grown, the Air Force upgraded, war fighting readiness, restored, NATO strengthened, the nuclear deterrent, guaranteed advanced technology developed and jobs, jobs created. Jobs created in every nation, and region of this country. Mr. Speaker. Mr. Strategic Defence Review will make Britain, safer, more secure, at home, and stronger abroad.

(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

• Procurement of up to 7,000 UK-built long-range weapons and £1.5bn to build at least six munitions and energetics factories.
• Work to create more than 1,000 new jobs and support around 800 more across the UK, driving defence as an engine for economic growth and supporting the Plan for Change.
• Delivers the Strategic Defence Review’s focus on warfighting readiness to deter and follows historic uplift in defence spending.

The UK will build at least six new munitions and energetics factories and thousands more long-range weapons to strengthen Britain’s Armed Forces and create new jobs across the country.

Through the Strategic Defence Review – published in the coming days – the UK’s defence and deterrence is being bolstered with thousands of long-range weapons and a new £1.5bn government investment in munitions and energetics factories.

Together the investment will back around 1,800 highly-skilled jobs across the UK, putting money in the pockets of working people, and supporting the government’s Plan for Change by driving growth in every region and nation.

The SDR recommends creating an ‘always on’ munitions production capacity in the UK allowing production to be scaled up at speed if needed. It says the MOD should also lay the industrial foundations for an uplift in munitions stockpiles to meet the demand of high-tempo warfare.

Taking the lessons from Ukraine which shows that our military is only as strong as the industry that stands behind it, the measures will boost British jobs while improving the warfighting readiness of both British Armed Forces and industry.

The additional funding will see UK munitions spend hit £6bn this Parliament. It follows the Prime Minister’s historic commitment to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, recognising the critical importance of military readiness in an era of heightened global uncertainty.

Commitments include:

• £1.5bn in an “always on” pipeline for munitions and building at least 6 new energetics and munitions factories in the UK. Creating more than 1,000 skilled manufacturing jobs, the factories will produce munitions and energetics, which are key components of weapons, including propellants, explosives, and pyrotechnics.
• Up to 7,000 UK-built long-range weapons for the UK Armed Forces, supporting around 800 defence jobs. The lessons from Ukraine demonstrate the importance of long-range weaponry and boosting our military capabilities.

The SDR sets a path for the next decade and beyond to transform defence and make the UK secure at home and strong abroad. It ends the hollowing out of our Armed Forces and will also drive innovation, jobs and growth across the country, allowing the UK to lead in a stronger NATO.

Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said: “The hard-fought lessons from Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine show a military is only as strong as the industry that stands behind them.  We are strengthening the UK’s industrial base to better deter our adversaries and make the UK secure at home and strong abroad.  We will embrace the Strategic Defence Review; making defence an engine for economic growth and boosting skilled jobs in every nation and region as part of our Government’s Plan for Change.”

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: “A strong economy needs a strong national defence, and investing in weaponry and munitions and backing nearly 2,000 jobs across Britain in doing so is proof the two go hand-in-hand. We are delivering both security for working people in an uncertain world and good jobs, putting more money in people’s pockets as part of our Plan for Change. The new investments will form an ‘always-on’ approach for priority munitions. They will provide a steady drumbeat of investment to industry sustaining a thriving defence industrial base that drives growth and jobs to deliver on the Plan for Change, while strengthening the UK’s commitment to NATO.  The funding will help transform the UK’s Armed Forces readiness and ability to endure in prolonged campaigns, providing the industrial foundations needed to support our Armed Forces in warfare, as demonstrated by the conflict in Ukraine.”

 

01 Jun  25. The BBC reported today that the defence review will send a “message to Moscow” about Britain’s “readiness to fight if required”, Defence Secretary John Healey has told the BBC.

Sources suggest that the announcement might include the purchase of a number of Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning jets along with the missiles.

He was speaking as the government announced it would spend £1.5bn on at least six new defence factories and create 1,800 jobs across the UK.

The strategic defence review, to be published on Monday, is expected to conclude the UK faces a “new era of threat” and will warn of the “immediate and pressing” danger posed by Russia and other countries, including China.

John Healey told Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg the review would set out “big new investments in our national security” and send a strong signal to hostile states.

The Conservatives said they welcomed investment in new munitions but shadow defence secretary James Cartlidge called for “greater ambition for the pace and scale of rearmament our armed forces require”.

On a visit to a factory in Stevenage, where Storm Shadow missiles are assembled, Healey said the government would support the procurement up to 7,000 UK-built long-range weapons.

The new funding will see UK munitions spending hit £6bn during this parliament, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said.

Healey told the BBC: “Six billion over the next five years in factories like this which allow us not just to produce the munitions that equip our forces for the future but to create the jobs in every part of the UK – 1,800 new jobs in every nation of the United Kingdom.”

He added: “This is a message to Moscow as well. This is Britain standing behind making our Armed Forces stronger but making our industrial base stronger, and this is part of our readiness to fight if required, but the strength in which to deter those fights in the future.”

The war in Ukraine has highlighted serious deficiencies in the West’s ability to produce weapons and munitions, and senior British military officers have long warned about the UK’s depleted stockpiles.

As part of its defence review, the government said it would build new factories to make key munitions and explosives to have an “always on” munitions production capacity that could be scaled up quickly.

Long-range weapons including drones and missiles would be procured over several years.

Ministers said the extra investment – which came after Healey said that UK defence spending would rise to 3% of GDP by 2034 at the latest – would strengthen the armed forces and boost British jobs.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: “A strong economy needs a strong national defence, and investing in weaponry and munitions and backing nearly 2,000 jobs across Britain in doing so is proof the two go hand-in-hand. We are delivering both security for working people in an uncertain world and good jobs, putting more money in people’s pockets.”

In a statement, Healey said the UK’s defence industry would become an “engine for economic growth” and “boost skilled jobs in every nation and region”.

“The hard-fought lessons from [Russian President Vladimir] Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine show a military is only as strong as the industry that stands behind them,” he added. “We are strengthening the UK’s industrial base to better deter our adversaries and make the UK secure at home and strong abroad.”

The Tories, however, said it was hard to believe Labour was prepared for “always on” munitions production when procurement had been “largely switched off for the past year”.

“We welcome investment in new munitions factories, but we don’t know when they will be ready, only that these orders should have been placed months ago,” Cartlidge added.

“Rachel Reeves has deliberately used the SDR to put an effective freeze on new orders for the kit our military needs,” he said.

Senior Western military chiefs have long been warning the UK would quickly run out of ammunition in the event of a war.

In 2021, the former head of the US Army in Europe, Gen Ben Hodges, told MPs in a simulated wargame most of the British Army’s inventory was exhausted after just eight days.

The former head of the British Army, Gen Sir Patrick Sanders, has also been calling for the UK to boost weapons production.

He recently said the Army’s diminished stocks of artillery rounds and missiles “would put hairs on the back of your neck”.

The UK has now significantly increased production of artillery shells.

New contracts have been signed to produce more complex weapons, such as next generation light anti-tank weapons (NLAW) and long-range Storm Shadow (also known as Scalp) cruise missiles.

Both have been supplied to Ukraine but production rates have, in the past, been slow. Exact numbers are not made public.

With the war in Ukraine, global demand for explosives and propellants has also been high.

The UK has often had to source materials from abroad.

BATTLESPACE Comment: Sources suggest that one of the plants being renovated is a former Royal Navy Depot in South Wales. Leidos appears to be the managing partner for this project with the MoD to onshore key munitions such as .338 Lapua which come from Switzerland .50 cal which comes from CBC in Brazil a new 6.5 ammo plant for the Royal Marines rifle, modular charges from Hanwha now made in RoK and a new propellant plant and energetics.