23 Nov 10. Institution of Mechanical Engineers, 1 Birdcage Walk, Westminster, London, SW1H 9JJ. Visit the website and book online at: www.imeche.org/events/s1548
Event highlights:
* Hear the MoD’s thoughts on present and future requirements from unmanned military vehicles
* Examine the future of unmanned military vehicles and how technology is furthering their applications
Event Overview:
Unmanned Military Vehicles (UMVs) is a rapidly developing industry which will play a major role in future military operations. The applications of UMVs is vast, and their labour-saving – and indeed life-saving – functions can include reconnaissance, patrolling, and casualty evacuations. However, as the potential of UMVs develops, procurers will have a better idea of their own requirements and will demand an ever-increasing standard of UMV capability and technology.
The Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) has organised this one-day seminar to examine the latest challenges facing UMV engineers and manufacturers as they seek to meet procurer’s requirements. With presentations from leading UMV manufacturers and military technology companies, this event will provide a comprehensive guide to the immediate and longer-term future for UMVs.
Confirmed speakers so far include:
* Hisham Awad, GCS Vehicles – Programme Manager, BAE Systems
* Dr Julia C Richardson, Director, Stellar Research Services Ltd
* Andy Wallace, Programme Manager, Marshall SDG Ltd
* Raglan Tribe, Managing Director, Mindsheet
* William Bardo, Technical Director, Systems Engineering for Autonomous Systems Defence Technology Centre (SEAS DTC)
Benefits of attending:
* Improve your understanding of procurer’s requirements for unmanned military vehicles
* Discuss the definition of autonomy in UMVS: what can we do at the moment?
* Deliver UMVs to successfully meet a variety of threats
* Gain an insight into the current and potential applications of unmanned vehicles
* Strike the right balance between technology and human intervention
* Learn more about systems for vehicle navigation, control, obstacle avoidance and decision-making
* Discuss robot development for the dismounted soldier
* Hear about tactical surveillance robots: what is the future?
* Learn from the latest research of SEAS DTC (Systems Engineering For Autonomous Systems Defence Technology Centre)
Who should attend the event?
International government and ministry procurers, technology manufacturers and consultants, senior executives from research and development organisations, electronics and software manufacturers, prime contractors and subcontractors.
For further information or sponsorship enquiries contact: Jason Williams on +44 (0)20 7973 1273. Or email j_williams@imeche.org

05 Mar 10. Organisers of this summer’s Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford in the Cotswolds believe there will be so much for people to see and do at the airshow that they are offering a special discounted two-day ticket. The Air Tattoo, which takes place on July 17&18, not only stages a seven-and-a-half-hour flying display but it also features a large, static aircraft park and a wide range of ground-based entertainment and interactive activities. Deputy Director of Marketing Helen Webb said the decision to introduce the new weekend ticket was in response to feedback from the public who said there wasn’t enough time in one day to enjoy all the attractions.She said: “We open our gates at 7.30am and don’t close them until 8.30pm but even then, the feedback we get is that people need more time to see everything. I believe the best way to make the most of the Air Tattoo is to spend one day enjoying the thrilling flying display and free evening concert with the second day spent exploring the static aircraft park and the many showground attractions.” In addition to aerial displays by a range of fast jets, helicopters, large transport aircraft, aerobatics display teams and historic warbirds, this