UK Ministry of Defence and QinetiQ launch Project Safari to cut testing barriers for smaller firms – Defence Industry Europe

UK Ministry of Defence and QinetiQ launch Project Safari to cut testing barriers for smaller firms  Defence Industry Europe

The UK Ministry of Defence and QinetiQ have launched Project Safari to give smaller businesses a simpler route into military testing facilities. The UK Ministry of Defence and QinetiQ have launched Project Safari to give smaller businesses a simpler route into military testing facilities. The programme will provide a single point of access and streamline trial approvals to help new technologies reach service faster. It targets barriers faced by small and medium-sized enterprises and companies entering the defence market. Multiple layers of approval have prevented some firms from testing their ideas and equipment in realistic conditions. “We know that limited access to test and evaluation facilities have been holding back smaller businesses and new entrants from working with defence,” said Luke Pollard, minister for defence readiness and industry.

“By working hand-in-hand with QinetiQ, we are unlocking British innovation by developing, testing and delivering military capabilities for the UK and our allies at speed.” Project Safari will bring together government, industry, regulators and technology developers to improve access to specialist facilities and expertise. It also aims to modernise testing infrastructure for a digital environment and reduce delays in decision-making. “Turning ideas into trusted frontline capability faster than our adversaries is what delivers military advantage and we’ve got to go faster to stay ahead,” said Steve Wadey, QinetiQ’s group chief executive. “Project