George Allison
George has a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and has a keen interest in naval and cyber security matters and has appeared on national radio and television to discuss current events. George is on Twitter at @geoallison
MOD moves to streamline defence procurement
The move would be a cultural shift within UK defence procurement, aiming to prioritise practicality over excessive customisation, which has historically caused delays and increased costs.
New support ships redesignated as Multi-Role Strike Ships
The Multi-Role Strike Ships will now be Royal Navy crewed warships with a combat system, self-defence and offensive capabilities. The amended name, say the Government, "better reflects the platform’s function".
MOD to award £80m for Area Weapons Effect Simulation
The Ministry of Defence intends to award a £80 million contract to Cubic Defence UK for the continued support and enhancement of its Instrumented Live Training – Area Weapons Effect Simulation (ILT-A) system.
Aussie submariners qualify as Royal Navy nuclear engineers
In a major milestone for the AUKUS partnership, the first cohort of Royal Australian Navy (RAN) submariners has successfully qualified to serve aboard the Royal Navy’s Astute-class submarines as nuclear engineers
Tories press Govt on defence amid Barrow spending plans
Amid a visit to Barrow, the PM hails defence investment & lays the keel for a Dreadnought-class sub—but the Tories warn Labour has “wasted months stalling” on defence spending & must act fast.
Ferguson Marine appoints ex-Babcock frigate head as new CEO
Graeme Thomson, who previously oversaw the Royal Navy’s Type 31 frigate programme at Babcock, will assume his new role on 1 May 2025, taking over from interim CEO John Petticrew.
Sweeney stands up for Scottish shipbuilders, offers solution
Labour MSP Paul Sweeney has criticised the Scottish Government’s procurement strategy, arguing that its failure to integrate social value has directly contributed to Scotland losing out on shipbuilding contracts.
MOD confirms no market engagement on Aermacchi M-345 trainer
In response to a question from Ben Obese-Jecty MP regarding the procurement of the Aermacchi M-345 trainer, the MOD has confirmed that no market engagement has taken place concerning the aircraft.
British forces shadow Russian warships near UK
The Royal Navy and RAF have conducted a multi-day operation shadowing a Russian task group returning from Syria through the English Channel and North Sea, marking the third such operation in six weeks.
UK collaboration with Israel sparks heated Commons debate
A heated debate in the House of Commons has reignited concerns over the UK’s military collaboration with Israel, as MPs from across the political spectrum questioned arms exports, intelligence-sharing, and potential legal implications.
