Today’s defence related news includes coverage of the extension of Op ORBITAL, continued investigation into the F-35 programme, reporting on the threat of drones and the announcement of two MOD contracts awarded to Carillion.
Op ORBITAL
Following the announcement of an extension to Op ORBITAL, the Ukraine training mission, The Daily Telegraph has reported that this is part of a wider series of measures that the UK is taking in the face of increasing Russian aggression.
Defence Secretary, Sir Michael Fallon, said:
We continue to stand side by side with our Ukrainian friends in the face of Russian belligerence and aggression. This training, defensive in nature, will help protect Ukrainian troops against the threats that they face on a daily basis. By stepping up our training programmes we are sending a clear message that we support the people of Ukraine and are firmly committed to its sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.
F-35 Investigation
The Times investigation continues into the costs of the F-35 programme, reporting on the increased profits for the US manufacturer of the F-35 Lockheed Martin as a result of increased maintenance.
An MOD spokesperson said:
The UK F-35 Programme is fully accountable to the public and faces regular external scrutiny and reviews. We have the same process in place as the US, with an officer that looks after all test and evaluation of UK military aircraft.
Despite inaccurate claims to the contrary, the UK F-35 programme is on time, on budget and offers the best capability for our Armed Forces.
Drone Threat
The Daily Mirror reports that a collision between a drone and a military helicopter is among the serious concerns faced by the Armed Forces. This is following MP, Jeremy LeFroy, citing Joint Helicopter Command in claiming that drones were the fifth greatest threat to military helicopter pilots' lives in a Westminster Hall Debate.
An Army spokesperson said:
The Joint Helicopter Command takes safety extremely seriously and regularly reviews risks linked with military helicopter flights.
Carillion awarded two MOD contracts worth £158m
Infrastructure company Carillion, which has seen its share price drop by 70%, has secured two contracts with the Ministry of Defence worth £158m. The Times, The Scotsman, The Daily Express, The Independent, and The Daily Mirror all report that the contracts have helped lift Carillion’s stock.
An MOD spokesperson said:
The welfare of our personnel and their families is of the utmost importance. Carillion has committed to honouring their defence contracts and we will work closely with them to ensure their obligations are met.
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