Chief of the Defence Staff visits AWE

The Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin KCB ADC, has visited AWE to see first-hand the work being delivered to help keep the nation safe.

As the professional head of the Armed Forces, Admiral Radakin, joined by Madelaine McTernan, the Chief of Defence Nuclear at the Ministry of Defence, had the opportunity to see different areas of AWE to further understand the once in a generation programme to design and produce a replacement warhead for the UK’s Continuous at Sea Deterrent.

The visit provided an opportunity to discuss our shared mission.

AWE’s Chief Executive Officer (Interim) Iain Stevenson, he said:

“The Continuous at Sea Deterrent is the centrepiece of the UK’s national security, and it was a privilege to welcome Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, along with Chief of Defence Nuclear Madelaine McTernan to AWE and showcase our vital role in keeping the nation safe. As Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Radakin is a hugely important partner and advocate for our mission.

“The Chief of Defence Staff’s visit provided a great opportunity to talk about our shared priorities in delivering the national endeavour that is the nuclear deterrent.”

AWE has a long-standing history with the military, and members of the AWE Armed Forces, veterans, reservists, and cadet volunteers community also had the opportunity to talk to Admiral Radakin about AWE’s membership of the Armed Forces Covenant.

Admiral Radakin said:

“The abiding impression I took from my visits to Aldermaston and Burghfield is one of consummate professionalism. Everyone I met was proud of their role and understood their part in this remarkable national endeavour. As we work to modernise the deterrent with new submarines and a new warhead, I was enthused to learn about AWE’s work with universities and colleges, apprentices, reservists and veterans to sustain and expand the workforce that will underpin our nation’s defence for decades to come.”