Defence-related news today includes the formation of a new defence innovation panel and the development of unmanned vehicles, the investigation into the Smolensk air disaster and RAF uniforms.
Defence Innovation Panel and Unmanned vehicles
The Sun, The Daily Mail, and The Daily Telegraph report that the Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon has announced that helicopter drones which could shoot down Daesh’s new remote-controlled weapons are under development. The Defence Secretary said Daesh’s latest drone tactics in Iraq - in which they drop grenades from the skies - had been a 'wake-up call' for Britain and that unmanned craft would enable the UK to stay ahead of enemies as they would be faster, fly for longer, and spare pilots from any risk. The articles also reference the MOD’s announcement of a new innovation panel, that will include Tim Peake and Ron Dennis as advisors.
Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon, said:
Backed by an £800M innovation fund, we want to transform defence and work with small firms, academics and others to find solutions to the threats to our security.
This panel of world class innovators will bring their drive and expert insights to the vital task of keeping the UK ahead of our adversaries and boosting our prosperity.
More information about the announcement can be found here.
The Smolensk Air Disaster
The Daily Telegraph reports that scientists from the Forensic Explosives Laboratory will test for traces of explosives on wreckage from the Smolensk air disaster.
A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said:
The Forensic Explosives Laboratory (FEL) has agreed to a request from the Polish authorities to provide explosive trace analysis in relation to the Smolensk air disaster.
RAF Uniforms
The Sun, The Daily Telegraph, and The Daily Mirror report that changes to the RAF’s uniform regulations are being considered.
An RAF spokesperson said:
RAF uniform regulations are regularly reviewed. Changes to female dress for formal parades are under consideration, but no decision has yet been made.
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