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Job Of The Week!
HR Advisor – Defence
Salary: Position: Full Time Location: Barrow-in-furness
Job Type: Contract
Job Description:
HR Advisor
An HR Advisor is required to work on a six month contract, with the possibility of extension for our Defence client based in Cumbria.
Overview of the HR contract role
The HR Advisor will provide coaching, advice and support to Line Managers on lower complexity ER cases across all in scope UK businesses.
Responsibilities
Works in partnership with other members of the UK Case Coaching Team and others to deliver a timely, accurate and effective casework.
Provides balanced advice that is legally compliant & in line with company policy to managers, and employees in order to manage risk.
Supports and manages cases in an accurate, timely fashion ensuring all cases are updated regularly and records maintained appropriately (using the appropriate technology solution)
Ensures effective working relationships are created and maintained including Business HR and Trade Union / Employee representatives, Occupational Health etc. who interface with the Case Coaching Team
Works with key stakeholder groups to continuously improve line leader capability by challenging, influencing and supporting managers in a way that increases their knowledge, understanding and ability to manage ER cases effectively
Identify, support & contribute to changes and developments in technology solutions, policy & process to ensure the continuous improvement of the efficiency of the service.
Contributes to identify and implement continuous improvement activity.
Knowledge of UK and businesses’ policy & processes.
ER discipline expertise including basic understanding on UK employment law
Sufficient on the job experience and/ or working towards CIPD qualification
Exercises judgment to advise on a variety of employee relations matters.
Contributes to defining standards and specifications around which the team operates in the ER discipline.The role is based in Barrow in Furness, Cumbria – commutable from Carnforth, Milnthorpe, Lancaster, Morecambe, Penrith, Workington, Whitehaven and The Lake District
If you are a HR Advisor looking for a new contract either apply online or if would like to find out about other Defence opportunities please contact Kris Foston on or phone (phone number removed)
Do you know anyone who might be looking for a new role? You could benefit from our candidate referral scheme. Contact me on the above contact details for more information.
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LOCATIONS
AIR
03 Feb 21. Lockheed Martin reports reduced F-35 deliveries for 2020 due to Covid-19. Lockheed Martin delivered fewer F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) aircraft to domestic and international customers than planned in 2020, with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic affecting supplies to its production plants.
Having set itself the goal at the beginning of the year to deliver 141 aircraft to customers, the company announced on 28 December 2020 that its final tally for the year would be 123 aircraft instead.
However, in line with the company’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) report released in late January, the actual figure was 120. In response to an Aviation Week enquiry on the discrepancy between the 123 figure first announced and the 120 figure revealed in the SEC report, Lockheed Martin noted that the outstanding three aircraft had been double counted from the 2019 deliveries.
“In response to Covid-19-related supplier delays, in May [2020] the initial annual delivery goal was revised from 141 to 117–123 aircraft to strategically avoid surging, which would increase production-related costs and create future delays and disruption,” the company said in its initial announcement. “Lockheed Martin took proactive measures to mitigate Covid-19 supplier impacts and position the programme for the fastest possible recovery by adjusting employee work schedules, maintaining specialised employee skillsets, and providing accelerated payments to small and vulnerable suppliers. Lockheed Martin provided accelerated payments to more than 400 F-35 suppliers in 45 states and Puerto Rico. Though Covid-19 will have short-term impacts on production, the F-35 programme continues to work diligently and is on track to meet the joint government and industry recovery commitments over the coming years.” (Source: Jane’s)
04 Feb 21. Aero India 2021: Indian TEDBF naval fighter showcased by HAL. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has showcased for the first time its Twin-Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) concept for the Indian Navy (IN), with a scale model displayed at Aero India 2021.
Shown during the biennial event at Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bangalore, in the first week of February, the single-seat concept is a development of HAL’s land-based Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). It has been created in response to the national Multi-Role Carrier Borne Fighter (MRCBF) requirement to augment and eventually replace the IN’s fleet of carrier borne MiG-29K ‘Fulcrum’ fighters.
As the name suggests, the TEDBF concept features twin engines for better short take-off performance from the Indian Navy’s Short Take-off But Arrested Recovery (STOBAR) aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and Indigenous Aircraft Carrier 1 (IAC 1) INS Vikrant.
Other features geared towards its maritime role include folding wingtips for easier stowage on and below deck, and an arrestor hook. Physically, the TEDBF has a wingspan of 11.2 m (7.6 m when folded for carrier stowage), and is 16.3 m in length. With canards located ahead of its wings, the TEDBF is similar in appearance to the Dassault Rafale that is operated by the Indian Air Force. Performance specifications released by HAL give the TEDBF a maximum take-off weight of 26 tonnes; a maximum Mach number of 1.6; a service ceiling of 60,000 ft; and a g limit of +8/-3. (Source: Jane’s)
03 Feb 21. US to deploy B-1B bombers to Norway for first time. The United States is deploying Rockwell B-1B Lancer bombers to Norway for the first time, US European Command (USEUCOM) announced on 2 February. Final preparations are currently under way for an expeditionary squadron of B-1B bombers and 200 support personnel to deploy from the 12th Air Force’s 7th Bomb Wing at Dyess Air Force Base (AFB) in Texas to Orland Air Base in Norway.
”Operational readiness and our ability to support Allies and partners and respond with speed is critical to combined success,” General Jeff Harrigian, US Air Forces in Europe and Africa commander, was quoted as saying.
USEUCOM declined to say how many B-1Bs will be assigned to the Bomber Task Force (BTF) in Norway, but noted that the mission will see the aircraft operate in a variety of areas, ranging from operating in the high north to improving interoperability with allies and partners across the European theatre.
“While details of specific missions or numbers of events are not discussed as part of routine operational security standards, US Air Forces in Europe routinely host a variety of US aircraft and units across the theatre in support of USEUCOM objectives,” USEUCOM said.
The US Air Force (USAF) fields 62 B-1B Lancer bombers, the first of which entered service in 1985. Now used exclusively in the conventional strike role, the supersonic B-1B can carry up to 48 500 lb Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) bombs, as well as other precision guided weaponry. (Source: Jane’s)
03 Feb 21. RAF receives fifth Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. The British Royal Air Force (RAF) has received its fifth Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft (MPA), named Fulmar, from Boeing. The British Royal Air Force (RAF) has received its fifth Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft (MPA), named Fulmar, from Boeing. The aircraft flew directly from Boeing Field near Seattle to RAF Lossiemouth, completing the journey in around eight hours.
A Poseidon Commander said: “Monitoring and tracking all activity in seas around the UK is paramount to our security. The arrival of this latest aircraft helps to ensure that we have the continued capability to defend our waters and support our Nato partners.”
In 2016, the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) awarded a contract to Boeing for nine P-8A Poseidon MPA under a foreign military sale programme of the US Government.
The UK is procuring these multi-role Poseidon MRA1 (P-8A) aircraft to boost its surveillance and search and rescue mission capabilities. The aircraft is also capable of launching torpedos for anti-submarine warfare.
It is equipped with an APY-10 radar for high-resolution mapping, an acoustic sensor system, an electro-optical/IR turret and electronic support measures (ESM) for search and tracking capabilities.
In a statement, RAF said: “Its arrival represents another milestone in the development of Lossiemouth’s Maritime Patrol capability and it comes at a time of unprecedented submarine activity, close to UK waters.
“Poseidon MPA can react quickly to track potential threats over large areas of sea or ocean and defend our own submarine fleet.”
RAF received the third Poseidon MPA in October and the fourth a month later in November. (Source: airforce-technology.com)
02 Feb 21. F-15EX First Flight Clears Path for Deliveries to U.S. Air Force. Newest U.S. Air Force fighter completes 90-minute test flight.
Deliveries to begin this quarter, less than nine months after contract award. The new Boeing [NYSE: BA] F-15EX fighter jet completed its first flight today, paving the way for the early delivery of the first two jets to the U.S. Air Force later this quarter. The jet took off and landed from St. Louis Lambert International Airport, completing a 90-minute test flight before returning to the airport.
Boeing F-15 Chief Test Pilot Matt Giese checked out the multirole jet’s avionics, advanced systems and software. A test team monitoring the data collected during the flight in real time confirmed that the aircraft performed as planned.
“Today’s successful flight proves the jet’s safety and readiness to join our nation’s fighter fleet,” said Prat Kumar, Boeing vice president and F-15 program manager. “Our workforce is excited to build a modern fighter aircraft for the U.S. Air Force. Our customer can feel confident in its decision to invest in this platform that is capable of incorporating the latest advanced battle management systems, sensors and weapons due to the jet’s digital airframe design and open mission systems architecture.”
The fighter’s digital backbone means it can serve as a testbed for future technology insertion, a key capability for the Air Force. Modern variants of the F-15 also include fly-by-wire flight controls, an all-new digital cockpit, modern AESA radar and the ADCP-II, the world’s fastest mission computer. The F-15EX, the most advanced version to date, features the Eagle Passive/Active Warning and Survivability System electronic warfare system to improve mission effectiveness and survivability for operators.
In July, the Air Force awarded Boeing a contract to build the first lot of eight jets. Future plans call for as many as 144 aircraft. For more information on Defense, Space & Security, visit www.boeing.com. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense and @BoeingSpace.
Boeing is the world’s largest aerospace company and leading provider of commercial airplanes, defense, space and security systems, and global services. As a top U.S. exporter, the company supports commercial and government customers in more than 150 countries. Building on a legacy of aerospace leadership, Boeing continues to lead in technology and innovation, deliver for its customers and invest in its people and future growth.
02 Feb 21. HAL completes licensed production of final two of 222 Su-30MKI fighters for IAF. Indian state-owned company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has completed the licensed production of the last two of 222 Sukhoi Su-30MKI multirole fighters ordered for the Indian Air Force (IAF) from 2001. A senior HAL official told Janes on 2 February that one of the twin-engined aircraft had already been certified by the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) in Bangalore for integration with the 292 km-range BrahMos cruise missile. Certification for the second fighter is still pending.
That said, HAL is expected to licence-build another 12 Su-30MKIs for INR107.30bn (USD1.47bn). India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD), which approved the acquisition of the additional fighters in July 2020, is now in “advanced negotiations” with Moscow, with a deal likely to be reached by 2022, according to industry sources. These aircraft are meant to be replacements for the Su-30MKIs lost in accidents, the most recent of which took place in August 2019.
In 1996 the IAF initially acquired 50 Su-30s for around USD1.8bn, all of which were later exchanged for Su-30MKI aircraft. This was followed by three agreements to licence-build a total of 222 Su-30MKIs for USD10bn–USD12bn at HAL’s Nashik facility in western India under a transfer of technology agreement. Over years, these HAL-built fighters have incorporated indigenously developed avionics, alongside French- and Israeli-made sub-systems and weaponry, to emerge as the IAF’s largest single aircraft type and the backbone of its fighter fleet. (Source: Jane’s)
MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT
PERSONNEL
03 Feb 21. Nato conducts study on integration of women in ground combat units. Nato’s Science and Technology Organization (STO), a forum that provides advice and scientific solutions to the military alliance, has conducted a study on the integration of women into ground combat units.
Nato’s Science and Technology Organization (STO), a forum that provides advice and scientific solutions to the military alliance, has conducted a study on the integration of women into ground combat units. The move comes after several Nato members and other partner countries have started inducting women in close combat units. The report identified the influence of social, cultural and psychological factors that impact gender integration in military organisations particularly in ground close combat units. It also identified effective strategies and processes to assess the integration of women, as well as its impact on combat effectiveness.
The recommendations, along with empirical evidence, will be shared to support defence research programmes within participating nations. STO will also publish a compendium report on the role of women in the military.
“Nato recognises the vital roles women play in peace and security, and the importance of incorporating gender perspectives in all that the alliance does,” a statement said.
Nato is an intergovernmental military alliance comprising 30 countries that are committed to the principle of collective defence. It also works with several non-member countries on a range of political and security related issues.
Last month, Nato completed a multi-year project to improve Mongolia’s cyber defence capabilities.
Overall, the project involved establishing a cybersecurity centre for the Mongolian Armed Forces as well as providing specialised training and equipment. Last year, Nato Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg rejected a UN treaty that calls for a ban on nuclear weapons. (Source: army-technology.com)
EUROPE APPOINTMENTS
03 Feb 21. RAF air commodore to be first head of UK Space Command. A Royal Air Force (RAF) air commodore is to lead the UK’s new Space Command when it stands up later this year as a joint organisation to run the country’s military space operations. Air Commodore Paul Godfrey was named as the new organisation’s first commander, the RAF announced on its website on 1 February, laying out for the first time its command responsibilities and linkages across the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD).
The RAF said that Space Command will be a joint organisation staffed by personnel drawn from all three UK armed services, MoD civilians, and members of the commercial sector at the RAF Air Command site at High Wycombe in Buckinghamshire. The service explained that Space Command would bring together three functions: space operations, space workforce generation, and space capability under a single two-star military commander. A senior RAF source told Janes on 2 February that new organisation would likely be up and running by early summer.
Satellite communications and navigation support, as well as intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance activities, would remain the responsibilities of UK Strategic Command from its headquarters at Northwood, west London.
“Direction from the [UK] National Space Council will flow through the Space Directorate in Ministry of Defence head office [in London] to Space Command and other relevant elements of defence,” said the RAF announcement. “It is envisaged that Space Command will interact with the [civilian] UK Space Agency, as required, to deliver joint national space capability.” (Source: Jane’s)
02 Feb 21. Appointment to roles of Independent Reviewer of National Security Arrangements and Chair of the Northern Ireland Committee on Protection. The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Rt. Hon Brandon Lewis CBE MP today announced the extension of appointment of His Honour Brian Barker CBE QC to the dual role of Chair of the Northern Ireland Committee on Protection and Independent Reviewer of National Security Arrangements in Northern Ireland.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Rt. Hon Brandon Lewis CBE MP today announced the extension of appointment of His Honour Brian Barker CBE QC to the dual role of Chair of the Northern Ireland Committee on Protection and Independent Reviewer of National Security Arrangements in Northern Ireland.
The extended appointment will take effect on 1 February 2021.
The Northern Ireland Committee on Protection (NICOP) was established in 2009 to determine the policy in relation to the provision of close armed protection to individuals living in Northern Ireland. The Independent Reviewer of National Security Arrangements in Northern Ireland reviews annually the operation of the arrangements for national security matters.
Biography of Appointee
His Honour Brian Barker CBE QC is a former British judge. He served as the Recorder of London and senior judge at the old Bailey 2013 – 2015 and previously was the deputy senior judge and Common Serjeant of London from 2005 to 2013. He currently holds an appointment as an Assistant Surveillance Commissioner.
Terms of Appointment
- The position is a part-time appointment.
- The position attracts a daily remuneration of £848.
- The appointment will be from 1 February 2021 for a period of up to one year.
Political Activity
His Hon. Brian Barker declared no political activity in the past ten years. Regulation. This appointment is not regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
01 Feb 21. New inspector appointed for police forces and fire services. The Home Office has appointed a new inspector to lead on investigations for Her Majesty’s Inspectorate for Constabulary Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS). Andrew Cooke QPM will take up the posts on Monday 12 April 2021.
Mr Cooke has been appointed to take up the dual roles of Her Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary and Inspector of Fire and Rescue Authorities in England, overseeing inspections primarily in the North of England.
Mr Cooke has worked in UK policing and law enforcement for nearly 36 years, where the majority of his service has been with Merseyside Police. He served at every rank with the force, being appointed to Chief Constable in 2017.
During that time he also served as Assistant Chief Constable at Lancashire Constabulary for a period and became the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) lead for the United Kingdom Protected Persons Service.
In 2019 he became the national lead for Crime Operations.
Mr Cooke has also been commended on 10 occasions and was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal in 2014.
Mr Cooke said: “Although I am leaving what has been for me a vocational career as a serving police officer in an exceptional police force, I am proud to have been appointed by Her Majesty to the Inspectorate.
I look forward to working with my new colleagues and both the police and fire services to further improve public safety.
Mr Cooke was selected following a stringent recruitment process, which followed the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments (OCPA) Code of Practice.”
The selection panel was led by an independent chair, Olivia Grant OBE, and also included a Home Office Non-Executive Director (Michael Fuller QPM), a senior civil servant and Sir Thomas Winsor, HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary and Chief Inspector of Fire and Rescue Authorities in England.
HMICFRS inspectors are then appointed by HM The Queen on the advice of the Home Secretary and the Prime Minister. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
01 Feb 21. Appointment of Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for East Lothian: 1 February 2021. The Queen is pleased to appoint Mr Roderick Macduff Urquhart as Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for East Lothian in succession to Major Michael Williams MBE, who is due to retire on 15th March.
Background
Roderick Urquhart, whose early years were spent living in Stenton in East Lothian, was educated at Loretto School, Musselburgh. He later read Law at University and subsequently joined the family law firm Urquharts in Edinburgh, in 1982. He is the fourth generation of his family to have worked for the firm, which was established in 1876. He has been Senior Partner since 2009, and is due to retire from Urquharts on 31 March 2021. In addition to being a solicitor, Mr Urquhart is a Writer to the Signet and a Notary Public. In his professional life, he has sat on various management and executive committees, including the Society of Writers to Her Majesty’s Signet, and the Boards of various private companies and family trusts.
In 1990, Mr Urquhart was appointed Clerk to the Governors of Loretto School, a post he held for 19 years. He worked closely with the Chairman of the Board of Governors, and with the Heads and Bursar, and was responsible for providing administrative support.
In 1997, he was elected as a member of the High Constables and Guard of Honour of Holyroodhouse. His obligations include assisting with Royal visits to the Palace, and with the Lord High Commissioner’s Week. He has been a senior Office Bearer for the past six years, and was previously Captain of the Guard.
Mr Urquhart became a Trustee of the Lamp of Lothian Trust in 2009, and he sat on the Trust for nine years before retirement. The Trust, based in Haddington, East Lothian, is a key provider of an extensive range of buildings available for community use. In 2016, he was appointed Deputy Lieutenant for East Lothian. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
U.S. APPOINTMENTS
02 Feb 21. The Senate voted Tuesday to confirm Alejandro Mayorkas as Homeland Security secretary, the first Latino and immigrant to serve at the helm of the department. His confirmation will fill a critical role in the new administration and he’ll be expected to swiftly begin rolling back Trump administration immigration policies while juggling the response to a global pandemic and national security threats, along with restoring a department that’s been rattled by leadership turnover and vacancies in recent years. The Senate also voted Tuesday to confirm Pete Buttigieg as transportation secretary, making him the first Senate-confirmed LGBTQ Cabinet secretary. (Source: CNN)
02 Feb 21. Army Command Sgt. Maj. James “J.R.” Cook, currently assigned as the command sergeant major, 3rd Operational Support Group (Airborne), Fort Bragg, North Carolina, has been selected to replace Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sgt. Andrew D. McCurry as the command senior enlisted leader for the Special Operations Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve.
INDUSTRY
INDUSTRY TEAMINGS
03 Feb 21. Quickstep to collaborate with Queensland start-up. The advanced composites manufacturer has signed an MOU with a Brisbane-based technology start-up in a bid to develop new products for the defence and aerospace sectors. Quickstep and battery casing technology company Vaulta have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at combining the firms’ respective services to develop new products and capabilities for the high growth market in electric-powered land and air vehicles.
Specifically, Vaulta is seeking to create a shift in battery casing technology, which “significantly reduces” cost, complexity, weight and space in all vehicle types, while also increasing efficiencies in safety and workforce deployment.
“The work Quickstep is doing in aerospace is all about lighter and better vehicles and we are looking forward to matching our innovative casing system with their new projects,” Vaulta founder Dominic Spooner said.
“We love designing and building the new casings that help fulfil the visions of those forging new capabilities, particularly in defence and aerospace.
“The work we are doing at Vaulta will support Quickstep with specially-created battery casings that are intended to be significantly lighter and stronger. Our casings are also designed to reduce waste and contain more reusable parts.”
Mark Burgess, CEO of Quickstep, said the MOU comes amid growing interest in electric vehicles and electric flight, adding that Quickstep requires more sophisticated battery casing technology to service demand.
“We identified this as a segment that we wanted to focus more on, as it is an important opportunity across the markets we operate in,” he said.
“We are proud to be working with an exciting Australian start-up and have already commenced working on our first customer proposal with the Vaulta team.”
This latest announcement comes just over a week after Quickstep signed an MOU with vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) supplier Volansi.
The firms agreed to jointly engage various regulatory, operational, and commercial stakeholders to promote the delivery of Volansi drones to the commercial and defence services markets across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.
In exchange, Volansi has committed to consider leveraging Quickstep’s proprietary aerospace manufacturing process, ‘AeroQure’, to manufacture its drones. (Source: Defence Connect)
02 Feb 21. Teal Global Launches Enhanced Aerospace, Defense and Security Consultancy. Teal Global, a newly launched joint venture between Teal Group (US, est. 1988) and Hawk Information (UK, est. 1992) is a consultancy focused on market intelligence, strategy and identifying growth opportunities in the aerospace, defence and security markets. The joint venture utilizes operational headquarters in Washington, DC, and London. Teal Global will also deploy its extensive network of strategically located in-country agents, offices, associates, analysts, and intelligence professionals.
“With the inability to travel and get business done on a global scale, COVID has shown us the importance of local support,” said Teal Global president William C. Storey, Jr. “Supply chain disruptions, procurement delays and equipment delivery issues are just three of the many risks government and industry face as we move into 2021.”
“The aerospace, defense and security sectors must adapt if they are to continue to be competitive and our service will help them do this. Post-US-elections, post-Brexit, post-COVID, we hear the mantra of ‘build back better’ and Teal Global positions itself to capture this idea with a model of agility and resilience – ‘Global Vision, Local Support’ – that provides informational and strategic advantage for government and industry around the world.”
Through the joint venture, Teal Global’s international team is uniquely placed to deliver evidence-based, intelligence-led D2D (data-to-decision) services to public and private sector organizations, covering:
- Monitoring and tracking of global aerospace, defense and security programs, supply chains, procurement budgets and future business opportunities
- Emerging aerospace, defense and security technology and threats, industry trends, future force requirements and capabilities
- Industry standard market analysis and open-source intelligence
- 10-year aerospace and defense program and production forecasts
- Local market business dynamics
- Contract management services at national or multi-national level
Teal Global provides this through: (1) subscription and member-based services; (2) customized research and analysis; and (3) strategic intelligence and consulting projects.
The joint venture is currently seeking collaboration from partners, as Michael Hobbs, Head of Strategic Partnerships, said: “Our position during the global health crisis is that we, as an industry, should stand together. That is why we are inviting interest from the global aerospace, defense and security community to join the Teal Global trusted-business-partners program. I believe that only through more active industry participation will we be able to effectively bounce back from COVID.”
The launch of the global consultancy marks a watershed moment in the history of the two companies, having both operated for three decades: Teal has developed world-renowned market intelligence and consulting expertise and Hawk has developed leading analytical and OSINT expertise. Both companies have extensive experience working with aerospace, defense and security organizations, managing projects and developing business internationally. This combination of skills in intelligence gathering, analysis and strategic consultancy will enable organizations operating in aerospace, defense and security to better identify, measure and exploit global opportunities and ensure they remain competitive in the years ahead. Teal Global’s ‘Global Vision, Local Support’ will provide a trusted and time-tested partner for better decision making and a more resilient and sustainable future for aerospace, defense and security.
02 Feb 21. Davie, Canada’s premier builder of Polar and ice-capable ships, today welcomed GE as a strategic partner in its Polar Icebreaker program, which is the flagship of Canada’s National Icebreaker Centre (NIC).
Launched in August 2020, the NIC is a centre of excellence for Polar technologies and Arctic expertise. It reflects Davie’s role as Canada’s icebreaking partner and builder of the new icebreaker fleet, under the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS). This will create thousands of good jobs, a vibrant world-class maritime cluster in Québec and drive exports of Canadian innovation.
Canada’s current Polar Icebreakers are very old. CCGS Louis S. St-Laurent is deep into its sixth decade and CCGS Terry Fox is fast approaching 40 years in service. A new Polar class will enable Canada to maintain a continuous Arctic presence benefiting all Canadians, including the northern communities, enabling ice-choked trade, supporting Arctic sovereignty and protecting the Polar environment.
GE’s Power Conversion business offer a full spectrum of best-in-class integrated electrical propulsion and power systems, including its SEAJETTM podded propulsion units. The ice-class range of SEAJETTM – a technology jointly developed with AETC Sapphire – is available for Polar Class notation, with a power range of 7.5MW to 15MW. In the SEAJETTM system the electric motor is housed in the hull mounted pod and directly connected to the propellor, freeing up cargo and operational space in the ship. Manoeuvrability and efficiency are greatly improved, and total fuel consumption and exhaust emissions are reduced. Customizable for different ship types, with simplified installation, SEAJETTM pods can enhance performance in an array of commercial, offshore marine, and ice breaking ships.
Davie is fully capable and ready to begin work on the Polar today. Davie is Canada’s only mega-yard with 50% of total capacity, able to build up to eight large, complex ships simultaneously. The 150-metre Polar will be easily accommodated in Davie’s 351-metre Champlain Dry Dock. An integrated build schedule would ensure Polar would complement other Davie programs such as the six Program Icebreakers (PIBs) it is set to build under the NSS. In fact, it would facilitate a steep learning curve and economies of scale to significantly benefit both programs by mitigating cost, schedule and performance risks.
Moreover, a recent analysis conducted for Davie by Deloitte[1], drawing on ISED and StatCan numbers, concluded that building Polar Icebreakers at Davie will generate up to 2,500 well-paid jobs, engage over 1,300 suppliers (with 900+ in Québec) and contribute up to $2.5bn to the Canadian economy.
GE joins Vard and Serco as partner in Davie’s Polar program. Davie expects to soon announce steel, critical systems and other service partners.
01 Feb 21. IMCO Industries and Innocon Sign MOU to Promote Joint UAV Venture. IMCO Group, a leading provider of complex solutions for air, land, and naval defense applications, and Innocon Ltd., an innovative Israeli developer and manufacturer of Tactical UAVs ranging from micro-UAVs to full-size light airplanes, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) showing intention to combine their capabilities for establishing a joint venture in the field of Unmanned Aerial Systems for defense, HLS, and security applications.
IMCO Industries CEO, Mr. Eitan Zait: “We are happy to partner with Innocon, an innovative developer of tactical UAVs. IMCO Group, together with its subsidiaries, affiliates, and partners, offers One-Stop-Shopping for end-to-end integrated defense solutions. The MOU with Innocon will allow us to offer customers all around the world uniquely tailored tactical superiority defense solutions using UAVs equipped with sensors, communications, and independent computing power on the battlefield.”
Zvika Nave, Innocon CEO: “We are excited to cooperate with IMCO Industries, a Prime System Integrator of complete defense solutions, and believe that together with the high-end capabilities Innocon brings in the field of UAV development and manufacture, we will be able to provide advanced tactical solutions for different defense applications”.
IMCO Industries Ltd. (Tel Aviv Stock Exchange TASE: IMCO) is a leading defense provider of complex solutions for air, ground, and naval applications. With proven manufacturing capabilities in Israel, the USA, and India, IMCO combines state of the art design, global production and project management capabilities to provide what the customer needs where it needs it. Together with its subsidiaries, affiliates and partners, IMCO Group offers design, development and production of unique Terrain Dominance range of solutions, that offer scalable tactical superiority capability using drones and UAVs equipped with sensors, communications, multi axial positioners and independent computing power for the defense, HLS, and security markets.
Innocon Ltd. is an Israeli developer and manufacturer of Tactical UAVs ranging from micro-UAVs to full-size light airplanes. The company delivers either complete systems or major sub-systems, and offers avionics integration services. Innocon’s technological advantages are clearly demonstrated in the superior performance of its core command and control technology on all company UAVs.
Innocon will be part of the IMCO Group stand at the IDEX 2021 Defense Exhibition in Abu Dhabi.
31 Jan 21. DroneShield Ltd (ASX:DRO) (“DroneShield” or the “Company”) announced the appointment of Pyne & Partners to assist its rapid growth within the Australian defence and government agency market. Pyne & Partners are led by Christopher Pyne who served as the 54th Australian Defence Minister, and was responsible for delivering the $200bn build-up of Australia’s military capability, the largest in Australia’s peacetime history, and Adam Howard, with an extensive Australian Government background, whose recent successes have included the South Australian Government’s campaign for the National Space Agency.
Pyne & Partners will support DroneShield’s executive team, identifying business development and strategic growth opportunities, and assist the Company’s aspirations to achieve Australian sovereign defence prime status.
PERSONNEL
02 Feb 21. Submarine maker to add jobs amid $39bn backlog in work. General Dynamics Electric Boat plans to add 2,200 jobs this year in Connecticut and Rhode Island as it tackles a $39bn backlog of work, the submarine maker’s top executive said Monday.
Kevin Graney, Electric Boat’s president, made the announcement during a video briefing for stakeholders.
He said the company is facing the largest backlog of work in its history, with orders to build two new ballistic missile submarines and 19 new attack submarines, 11 of which are currently under construction.
The company added more than 2,000 jobs a year ago, much of it at the company’s Quonset Point site in Rhode Island.
The new jobs will include shipyard workers, engineers and support staff, Graney said, and the firm expects to be in a “stable hiring mode pretty much for the next decade.”
“We’re going to need to sustain the Rhode Island workforce as we grow the Connecticut workforce,” he said.
Electric Boat employs more than 17,000 people, including about 12,000 at its Groton shipyard and more than 4,000 in Rhode Island.
Congress increased funding for submarine programs from about $11.1bn during the last fiscal year to $11.6bn this fiscal year.
Members of Connecticut’s all-Democrat congressional delegation, who took part in the video conference, said the defense contractor can expect to continue receiving work under the Biden administration.
“It may be unmanned as well as manned weapons platforms, but the future of the submarine is critically important,” U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal said. (Source: Defense News Early Bird/Defense News)
29 Jan 21. Defence jobs weekly snapshot: Robotics on the rise in January. Robotics jobs in the aerospace, defence and security (ADS) sector increased from 404 to 441, or 9%, month-on-month in January 2021 according to the GlobalData jobs analytics tool.
Robotics jobs in the aerospace, defence and security (ADS) sector increased from 404 to 441, or 9%, month-on-month in January 2021 according to the GlobalData jobs analytics tool.
In the same period, 3D printing jobs increased 4% from 259 to 269, cybersecurity jobs fell 4% from 5,396 to 5,623, big data jobs were down 3% from 499 to 483, internet of things (IoT) jobs were down 9% from 350 to 319 and artificial intelligence (AI) jobs remained almost unchanged at 965 vs 961.
US-headquartered prime Raytheon was the biggest recruiter over the month, with 6,119 active jobs. Its biggest thematic growth was in 3D printing, which saw jobs increase 52% from 21 to 32. Raytheon was last year awarded an $841K contract to work on additively-manufactured optical systems for US Air Force surveillance drones. However, cybersecurity remains the prime’s biggest area for recruitment in raw numbers, with 1,213 jobs posted. Of its vacancies, 93% of its vacancies are North America-based, with 3% in Europe and 2% each in the Middle East and Africa and 2% in Asia-Pacific.
The recruiter with the second-highest number of jobs according to GlobalData was Defence, Aviation, Information Technology, and Biomedical Research company Leidos Holdings, formerly known as Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), which posted 3,421. While down 3%, cybersecurity was also its biggest recruitment theme, with 1,061 posted. However, AI saw the biggest growth, up 133% from 6 to 14. IoT jobs were up 40% from 10 to 14 and AUI roles increased 23% from 132 to 162. Of its roles 90% were based in North America, 5% in Europe, 3% in Asia-Pacific and 1% in in the Middle East and Africa.
Third in jobs posted rankings was Northrop Grumman with 3,157. It saw a 27% hike in VR roles, up from 15 to 19, 19% more 3D printing jobs, up from 21 to 25 and 3% more big data roles, up from 33 to 34. Cybersecurity jobs were down 12% from 265 to 235 and AI down 2% from 62 to 61. In contrast to the overarching trend, its robotics jobs were down 17% from 35 to 29. North America-based roles dominated with 99% and just 1% in Asia-Pacific.
The highest-ranking recruiter based outside of North America was French prime Thales which came sixth in GlobalData’s rankings with 2,035 jobs posted. In contrast to its US rivals, robotics recruitment took a dive in January, down 33%, but this represented just four jobs posted. AI hires were up 23% from 44 to 54 and big data job increased 4% from 122 to 127. Cybersecurity jobs were down 10% from 1,772 to 1,591, IoT down 13% from 63 to 55 and VR down 6% from 18 to 17. Its jobs were based mainly in Europe – 86% – with &% in Asia-Pacific, 5% in North America and 1% each in South and Central America and the Middle East and Africa.
Methodology: GlobalData’s unique Job analytics enables understanding of hiring trends, strategies, and predictive signals across sectors, themes, companies, and geographies. Intelligent web crawlers capture data from publicly available sources. Key parameters include active, posted and closed jobs, posting duration, experience, seniority level, educational qualifications and skills. (Source: Google/army-technology.com)
EUROPE APPOINTMENTS
01 Feb 21. Lockheed Martin has today announced the appointment of a new chief executive who will lead its UK business from April this year. Paul Livingston, currently vice president and group managing director of the company’s U.K. Rotary and Mission Systems business, will assume leadership of Lockheed Martin UK, a key strategic partner for the UK’s national defence and its supply chain, on April 1. This follows the decision by Peter Ruddock CB CBE to retire after five years in post. Peter, who has been with Lockheed Martin since 2011, will continue to support the company’s UK business activities to ensure a smooth transition until his retirement at the beginning of August. On his appointment Paul Livingston said: “During his time as chief executive Peter Ruddock has successfully underpinned Lockheed Martin’s position as a trusted partner not only for the UK’s defence and security, but for the national aerospace supply chain and the UK economy too. As the business enters the next phase of its development I’m excited by the opportunities ahead as we develop our presence in new areas such as UK space, directed energy, cyber security and 5G technologies that will support 21st century defence and security operations. Paul Livingston began his career as an engineering apprentice working in civil and military simulation and has since spent more than 30 years in the aerospace sector.
03 Feb 21. Jean Gauthier is appointed Director of Naval Group’s transformation program, “Naval 2025.” On February 1, 2021, Jean Gauthier took charge of Naval Group’s transformation program. This program sets out the group’s five-year aim to achieve the standards expected by the company’s customers: to be the benchmark for naval applications and defence systems, especially in terms of health, safety and environment, quality of delivery, and customer satisfaction. The Naval 2025 transformation program is based on four pillars: growth, performance, innovation and talent. These four pillars form the backbone of our roadmaps both at company level and within each of its sites and entities. Jean Gauthier is now responsible for ensuring the overall management of this structuring program, the consistency of the roadmaps, and the sharing and capitalisation of the results obtained.
01 Feb 21. Roke announced the appointment of James Luke as Innovation Director with immediate effect. James, who was previously Chief Technology Officer with responsibility for the UK Public Sector within IBM Global Business Services, will focus on driving and further leveraging Roke’s world-class expertise to solve customers’ most complex problems.
As Roke embarks on the next phase of its growth strategy, James will be responsible for the investment, development and exploitation of the company’s innovation activities. He will balance a focus on current customer campaigns with exploratory work to build opportunities, skills and intellectual property for Roke’s future. A key focus will be supporting current and future product development in domains including cyber, electronic warfare, electronic countermeasures, agile software and situational awareness technologies.
Paul MacGregor, Managing Director of Roke, commented: “Innovation is the beating heart of Roke and represents a significant annual investment in order to maintain Roke’s leading edge position in science and engineering. James brings both extensive technical knowledge and 25 years’ experience leading some of IBM’s greatest advances in Artificial Intelligence and cyber. I’m delighted to add such a high calibre engineer to our leadership team and am confident that he will make an extremely valuable contribution to both our strategic roadmap and in opening new horizons.”
James brings 25 years’ experience delivering artificial intelligence solutions to National Security and Defence clients. He has held several key leadership roles including Chief Architect for IBM Watson Tools and the lead architect for the IBM Text Analytics Group. Prior to joining IBM, he worked for Data Sciences on ballistic missile defence and electronic warfare solutions funded by the US Star Wars programme.
Serving in the Royal Navy, he read for his first degree in Electronic Engineering Systems at the Royal Naval Engineering College (RNEC), working on radar, communications and electronic warfare. After leaving active duty, James worked on data analysis in Formula 1. He completed his PhD, in 2003, with the Image, Speech and Intelligent Systems Group of the University of Southampton, and researched the application of intelligent agents to detect previously unseen computer viruses.
U.S. APPOINTMENTS
01 Feb 21. Byrna Technologies Inc. (OTCQB: BYRN) (CSE: BYRN) today announced that Luan Pham has been named Chief Marketing Officer, effective January 18, 2021. In this newly created role, Mr. Pham will report directly to Bryan Ganz, Byrna’s Chief Executive Officer, and will have global responsibility for developing and implementing integrated marketing programs aimed at building brand awareness and increasing demand for the Company’s flagship self-defense product, the Byrna HD, and the numerous new innovations in Byrna’s R&D pipeline. (Source: PR Newswire)
03 Feb 21. The board of directors of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD) has elected Robert K. Steel to be a director of the corporation, effective February 3. He has been appointed to serve on the Finance and Benefit Plans Committee. Steel, 69, is a partner at Perella Weinberg Partners, a global financial services firm. His previous positions include New York City’s deputy mayor for Economic Development, CEO and president of Wachovia Corporation and undersecretary of the U.S. Treasury for Domestic Finance. Steel spent nearly 30 years at Goldman Sachs, rising to head of its Global Equities division and vice chairman of the firm. (Source: PR Newswire)
30 Jan 21. Lockheed’s F-35 program head to lead aeronautics biz. Lockheed Martin announced Jan. 29 the appointment of Greg Ulmer as the company’s executive vice president of aeronautics, making him the top executive overseeing flagship aviation programs such as the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter as well as the secretive Skunk Works development shop. Ulmer, 56, has spent the past three years leading the F-35 program, Lockheed’s largest effort and one of its biggest money makers. As vice president and general manager, Ulmer oversaw the program as the focus transitioned from development to driving down procurement and sustainment costs. He also previously worked as the head of operations at Skunk Works, the advanced development arm of Lockheed known for its work on secret projects.
“With Greg’s wide-ranging experience and impressive record of leadership, we are confident that Aeronautics will continue its legacy of success under his leadership,” said Lockheed President and CEO Jim Taiclet.
Ulmer replaces Michele Evans, who passed away earlier this month. Over the past two years, Evans had taken medical leaves of absence due to a cancer diagnosis. During those periods, Ulmer filled in as the head of the aeronautics business. He officially takes over the executive vice president role on Feb. 1, the company stated. Ulmer graduated from California Polytechnic State University with a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering and obtained a master’s degree in business management from the University of Tennessee.
In addition to Ulmer’s appointment, the company announced that Taiclet will become chairman of the board on March 1, after former CEO Marillyn Hewson retires as executive chairman. Hewson will continue work as a strategic adviser to Taiclet until Feb. 28, 2022. (Source: glstrade.com/Defense News)
29 Jan 21. Lockheed Martin Board Elects James D. Taiclet as Chairman; Marillyn A. Hewson to Serve as Strategic Advisor and Gregory M. Ulmer as Executive Vice President of Aeronautics. The Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE: LMT) board of directors has elected President and CEO James D. Taiclet as chairman of the board, effective March 1. Executive Chairman Marillyn A. Hewson informed the board of directors of her intention to retire as executive chairman and as a member of the board.
“Marillyn provided leadership that helped us to implement a smooth and successful transition. As a result, we were able to accomplish strong financial and operational performance in 2020 and shape a vision for how we will support our nation and allies to meet the heightened threats of the 21st century,” Taiclet said. “Her confidence in our executive leadership team and wise counsel over the past months illustrate her legacy as one of Lockheed Martin’s most successful and respected leaders.”
Hewson will transition to be a strategic advisor to the CEO through Feb. 28, 2022. “I am proud to continue to support Jim and the important mission of Lockheed Martin as we deliver innovative, affordable, and leading-edge solutions for our customers,” Hewson said.
The board also elected Gregory M. Ulmer, 56, as executive vice president of Aeronautics. He succeeds Michele A. Evans, who passed away earlier this year. Ulmer has served as acting executive vice president, Aeronautics since Dec. 1, 2020, and as vice president and general manager, F-35 Lightning II Program since March 2018. Ulmer has led critical initiatives for Lockheed Martin throughout his career. His appointment is effective Feb. 1.
“With Greg’s wide-ranging experience and impressive record of leadership, we are confident that Aeronautics will continue its legacy of success under his leadership,” Taiclet said.
04 Feb 21. Vita Inclinata, which stabilizes chaotic motion, swing and spin with the touch of a button, today announced that the Honorable Patrick J. Murphy, Bronze Star veteran, former congressman, undersecretary and acting secretary of the Army, and champion of veterans’ issues and innovation, will join its Board of Directors. Patrick’s work with Vita will bring unmatchable insights on how best to work with the US Army and Department of Defense to ensure that Vita’s life-saving innovations get into the hands of those who need them: American war fighters and rescuers. (Source: PR Newswire)
REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS
03 Feb 21. archTIS appoints new global COO. The Canberra-based tech firm has announced senior executive changes, including the appointment of a new COO, following on from its acquisition of Nucleus Cyber. ArchTIS has appointed former Nucleus Cyber CEO Kurt Mueffelmann as its new global chief operating officer (COO) and president of its US division. Mueffelmann will be charged with defining and overseeing the group’s overall business and growth strategy. The new COO joins archTis’ leadership team with over 25 years of industry experience, during which he has overseen the growth and sale of five technology companies.
Mueffelmann has served as CEO of Nucleus Cyber, Cryptzone, HiSoftware (acquired by Cryptzone), Create!form International (acquired by Bottomline Technologies), and RealWord (acquired by Microsoft Great Plains).
“I am thrilled to be joining the archTIS team to accelerate growth and scale the business to meet market demand. ArchTIS provides a solution to a significant information security challenge — how allow employees and partners share and collaborate on sensitive information securely without risking data misuse, theft, or accidental sharing,” Mueffelmann said.
The firm has also appointed former Nucleus Cyber executives Irena Mroz as chief marketing officer (CMO) and Leigh Rowland as chief engineer. (Source: Defence Connect)
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