AWE NUCLEAR SECURITY TECHNOLOGIES Partnering for National Defence 2025/26 Working together to deliver the mission Contents ABOUT AWE BY CEO, NICK ELLIOTT CB MBE: 2 FOREWORD BY MANDY SAVAGE, AWE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ENGINEERING & P3M: 3 PARTNERING TO SUPPORT THE NATIONAL ENDEAVOUR: 4-5 ACADEMIC PARTNERSHIPS: 6-19 INDUSTRIAL AND PUBLIC SECTOR PARTNERSHIPS: 20-29 BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS: 30-31 INVESTING IN OUR COMMUNITY AND FUTURE SKILLS: 32-35 OUTREACH EVENTS: 36-41 RECOGNISING OUR PEOPLE AND OUR PARTNERS: 42-49 LOOKING AHEAD BY AWE CHAIRMAN, SAM LAIDLAW: 50 WHAT AWE OFFERS: 51 MORE FROM OUR PARTNERS: 52 About AWE Nick Elliott CB MBE, AWE CEO At AWE, we understand the critical importance of our role in the defence of the UK and our allies. We have been at the heart of the UK's nuclear deterrent since the Continuous at Sea Deterrent (CASD) began in the late 1960s. Throughout this time, our purpose – to protect the UK through nuclear science and technology, has remained the same. In a changing global landscape, our mission to design and manufacture warheads and provide nuclear services that meet the needs of defence and government is vitally important to keep the nation safe. We are at a pivotal time in our history, with a once-in-a-generation challenge ahead. We must maintain our current warhead, design and manufacture a replacement warhead, recapitalise our ageing infrastructure and continue to be ready to provide support to national security. This year, we proudly commemorate 75 years since AWE commenced work on the UK's deterrent programme at Aldermaston. Over that time, we've led the way in pioneering technological innovation and cutting-edge nuclear research, playing a critical role in safeguarding our nation against the most significant threats to our democratic way of life. To protect our nation for the next 75 years and beyond, we must work collaboratively with industry, academia, wider government and the broader public sector. We remain committed to building purposeful, effective and enduring partnerships across industry and academia, founded on the principles of trust and collaboration. These strategic partnerships are crucial to our success and to STEM research and innovation – strengthening the UK's capabilities to remain credible on the world stage. Foreword Mandy Savage, AWE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ENGINEERING & P3M As we reflect on another year of innovation, collaboration and growth in support of AWE's mission, it is with immense pride that in this report we celebrate our key partners and our people, who play a vital role in our mission and the wider defence enterprise. This year has been marked by significant accomplishments that have not only advanced our strategic ambitions, but have also strengthened our commitment to building meaningful relationships with our partners across academia, industry and beyond. Some of the key highlights described in this report include the launch of new strategic alliances with the University of Strathclyde and The University of Manchester where we are investing in cutting-edge technologies and capabilities – creating a dynamic and vibrant ecosystem that promotes academic excellence and drives groundbreaking advancements. We have also been working with the High Value Manufacturing Catapult network to expedite our R&D capabilities and nuclear skills agenda. This reflects our aim to be a leader in technological development and application which drives real benefits. Another notable achievement is our enduring relationship with industrial partners in which we continue to support an environment of learning – sharing best practice, insights, and knowledge to meet the skills needs of the future whilst boosting the UK's economy. An example of this is AWE joining RAICo alongside UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), Sellafield Ltd and The University of Manchester to develop robotics and AI technologies solutions for the nuclear sector. During this year, we have also worked with the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), a cross-Government team from a range of backgrounds including defence, security, the private sector and academia, to explore opportunities for innovation while actively engaging with suppliers who have ambitions to work with government. Creating innovations which enable us to stay ahead of the threats the nation faces, not just now, but in the future, is key to our national security. Furthermore, you will see incredible examples of achievements from our people and collaborators with some appointed to prestigious academic positions. It cannot be overstated that our partnerships with academia and industry are vital to defence and keeping our nation safe. AWE's partnerships across government and multiple agencies are vital to supporting the National Endeavour, underpinning a concerted and continued commitment to the defence and security of the UK. DEFENCE NUCLEAR ENTERPRISE (DNE) AWE is a member of the DNE, a partnership of organisations including the Defence Nuclear Organisation (DNO), Royal Navy and Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA) that operate, maintain, renew and sustain the UK's Continuous-at-Sea Deterrent – delivering nuclear capability that deters threat and protects the nation. This collaborative effort spans government, industry, and military sectors, ensuring access to cutting-edge technology and nuclear expertise, sustaining a highly skilled workforce and bolstering the UK's defence capabilities. As an arm's length Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB) wholly owned by MOD, we work in close collaboration with the DNO, who set our requirements. Furthermore, we continue to work with partners across Government to ensure that our complex infrastructure programmes are delivered effectively, safeguarding our unique capabilities into the future. PROTECTING OUR NATION We work with government to protect our country from radiological and nuclear threats and provide advice on issues relating to national security – including counterterrorism, nuclear forensics and detection, treaty verification and arms control, border control, and emergency preparedness and response. A recent example of work undertaken to safeguard our nation was Exercise Diamond Dragon, an international multi-agency operation between the UK and US – involving a complex simulation during which the UK's national emergency arrangements were successfully demonstrated. GLOBAL COLLABORATIONS AWE partners with international organisations, which include some of the US National Laboratories and other nuclear plants, while in France, we work with French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) jointly operating EPURE, the France-based radiographic and hydrodynamics testing capability. These global collaborations enable AWE engineers and scientists to access resources and expertise, which are critical to delivering our mission and in advancing scientific discovery and innovation. Our experts and specialists, some of whom are world renowned, collaborate with universities across the UK. Together, we deliver research projects, create innovations, and pursue new opportunities to benefit national defence and advance the Government's STEM agenda. Our relationships with academia are essential for enhancing AWE's technical programme, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and bridging the gap between theory and practice. Key Statistics: - 124 Postgraduate & Postdoctoral research contracts across Physics, Materials & Analytical Science, Engineering and Nuclear Security - Strategic Alliance university partners - Engaged with 31 different universities across the UK - 190 papers published across STEM journals and conferences in 2024/25 - 10 William Penney Fellows - AWE supported 17 new Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) in the last year (7 Physics, 5 Engineering, 5 Materials & Analytical Science) - 115 visiting academic positions, of which 17 are visiting professors AWE has Strategic Alliances with six universities – each providing technical expertise and knowledge that are mutually beneficial for our partnerships, the national skills agenda, future capability and wider UK academia. THE UNIVERSITY OF MANCHESTER We are working with The University of Manchester to develop innovative modelling and simulation solutions, and advance nuclear chemistry and materials science to address complex scientific challenges. Through close collaboration and interaction, this partnership will inspire current and future generations of mathematicians and scientists in a shared mission to support the security of the UK. UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL The University of Bristol hosts the Nuclear Threat Reduction Network (NTR-Net) designed to drive research and development into national nuclear security and keeping the UK safe. Elsewhere at the university, research areas relating to supercomputing, materials science and non-destructive evaluation support our wider technical programme. CRANFIELD UNIVERSITY We are working with Cranfield University on major areas of defence and security to train and develop the next generation of scientists and engineers, covering topics as diverse as aerospace, energetics and precision engineering. We partner with the university to deliver the MSc Defence Nuclear Safety Engineering course. UNIVERSITY OF STRATHCLYDE Engaging with the University of Strathclyde is furthering our interests in advanced manufacturing techniques alongside pulsed power, satellite and sensor research allowing the university to provide technical solutions that support AWE's programmes. HERIOT-WATT UNIVERSITY We partner with Heriot-Watt University to support our unique sensing and metrology capabilities, manufacturing, and through-life programme. Our collaboration centres on photonics, including optical sensors and analysis, and aims to leverage expertise being developed at The National Robotarium, the UK's centre for Robotics and AI. IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON We are collaborating with engineers and physicists at Imperial College London to understand the behaviour and characteristics of materials – utilising high-fidelity testing and plasma regimes that are vital to scientific research and development. AWE has a number of established research groups that deliver technical expertise through academic, postgraduate and postdoctoral activities – covering engineering, materials science, physics and nuclear security. UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD: Oxford Centre for High Energy Density Science (OxCHEDS) OxCHEDS based at the University of Oxford brings together research groups from the atomic and laser physics areas, with an enduring focus on advancing AWE's understanding of the behaviour of matter at extraordinary temperatures and pressures usually encountered only in planetary or stellar interiors – which is critical to our research in plasma physics. UNIVERSITY OF SURREY: Materials Ageing, Performance and Lifetime Prediction (MAP-Life) The MAP-Life Centre of Excellence at the University of Surrey is focused on a range of technical themes, resulting in the expansion of mission-centred projects and the development of bespoke training approaches – delivered through increased collaboration between staff, doctoral researchers, undergraduates and visiting fellows from AWE. THE UNIVERSITY OF MANCHESTER: Materials Modelling Research Hub AWE's collaboration with the Materials Modelling Research Hub at The University of Manchester continues to support our knowledge and understanding of computational modelling and simulation – vital to theoretical understanding of experimental studies in engineering and science. CRANFIELD UNIVERSITY: Centre of Excellence in Energetic Materials (CoEEM) AWE's collaboration with CoEEM continues to champion energetic materials as an essential national capability through our sponsorship of the International Explosives Conference (IEC-2024). This event brought together experts in energetics and explosives to debate cutting-edge technological advances and innovations. ORION ACADEMIC ACCESS Our state-of-the-art Orion laser facility at AWE Aldermaston, which conducts high-energy density physics research, provides up to 15% of its system campaign time for collaborative experiments led by UK academics. Researchers at the University of Oxford investigated the extreme conditions prevalent in the universe, with a particular focus on instabilities and magnetic field generation. Such experiments help us to further our understanding of the fundamental nature of our universe. AWE is investing in strategically important Centres of Excellence across nuclear science and technology, that support our research and innovation, to deliver future capability requirements. In the next five years, AWE has an ambition to expand our Centres of Excellence to deliver strategic and collaborative R&D across academia, national laboratories, the Catapult network and UK industry. 1. Centre of Excellence for Scientific Computing (ScCoE): Developing unique techniques and methods to enhance AWE's capability in physics, covering novel architectures, code efficiencies, algorithms, and large-scale computer modelling. 2. Centre of Excellence for Future Systems Materials Technology (FSMT): Enhancing AWE's expertise in non-nuclear components and associated technologies. 3. Quantum Centre for Nuclear Defence and Security (QCNDS): Creating different methods to enable a better understanding of quantum sensing and quantum computing, and how the technologies could potentially be applied to AWE's programme. 4. Centre of Excellence for Actinides (ACE): Ensuring that AWE maintains and grows its knowledge and capability in actinides research. 5. Centre of Excellence for Nuclear Data (ND): Providing essential inputs in the form of calculations and other data that underpin the safety, performance and reliability of AWE's product. AWE actively contributes to IABs across engineering, where our subject matter experts support the development of academic programmes to align with industry needs, facilitating course accreditation and fostering research links. Through guest lectures, project guidance and academic engagement, we help strengthen the skills pipeline and promote collaboration between industry and academia. - 17 One Engineering Staff cover 29 IABs at 26 universities (General engineering, Civil engineering, Mechanical engineering, Aerospace engineering, Electrical & electronic engineering, Design engineering, Automotive engineering). Quotes and Feedback: - Professor David Ndzi (University of Portsmouth): 'AWE is a vital partner in advancing engineering education at the University of Portsmouth...' - Dr Rajesh Madarkar (Buckinghamshire New University): 'I would like to extend my sincere gratitude for your insightful manufacturing lecture today...' - Dr Paola Falugi (University of East London): 'Your guest lecture provided an invaluable real-world perspective on control and instrumentation...' - Dr James Campbell (Brunel University London): 'This year AWE supported two undergraduate dissertation projects in our Department...' - Dr Diogo Montalvão (Bournemouth University): 'AWE's involvement through the IDEAS Board and student projects has been key in aligning our engineering programmes with industry needs...' Industrial and public sector partnerships are fundamental to AWE's approach to external engagement and building our defence and security capabilities, whilst also benefitting the UK economy and skills pool nationwide. AWE has a number of different collaborative agreements with industry, government partners, the public sector and the UK's network of High Value Manufacturing Catapult centres, each of which is designed to support our mission through effective partnering and shared ambitions. Our partnerships are also providing AWE with access to the UK supply chain and expertise to support the requirements of our work and capability – now and in the future. Key Partners & Catapults: - High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult - University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC): Tier 1 member since June 2015. - National Composites Centre (NCC): Tier 1 member since November 2023. - Centre for Process Innovation (CPI): Platform to accelerate technology adoption in advanced materials. - Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC): Joined in January 2024. - Satellite Applications Catapult: Exploring space technology and satellite-enabled services. - Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC): Close collaboration since June 2015. - Digital Catapult: Practical adoption of deep tech capabilities. - Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC): Harwell Space Cluster and Energy Tech Cluster access. - UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA): Operating in extreme conditions, radiological protection, robotics. - Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA): Mission relevant technical challenges. - National Physical Laboratory (NPL): Metrological standards and technical data. - Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl): Advanced materials, strategic systems, energetics. - UK National Nuclear Laboratory (UKNNL): Processing AWE material and advanced nuclear skills. - Met Office: High-performance computing and climate services. - Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Collaboration (RAICo): Joined in 2025 to develop robotics and AI technologies. - Alpha Resilience and Capability (ARC): Safe handling and management of alpha-emitting materials. - Space Park Leicester: Over a year of partnership, environmental testing, secondee deployments. AWE has strategic business partnerships with organisations, institutions and the supply chain across the UK, delivering value in our operations, practices, processes, new build and infrastructure projects. These relationships are essential for ensuring AWE's continued commitment to delivery of our mission and providing maximum impact for the benefit of the UK. - National Laboratories Alliance (NLA): Network of 12 public sector research establishments. - Infrastructure Industry Innovation Partnership (i3P): Joined as Client Member in March 2024. - Royal United Services Institute (RUSI): Insights on defence/security; participation in UK Project on Nuclear Issues (PONI) Conference. - Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS): Bespoke leadership education for senior and mid-level leaders. - Professional Institutes: Corporate memberships including Chartered Management Institute and Institute of Collaborative Working. Through our partnerships with educational institutions and programmes across the UK, we continue to invest in a skilled, diverse workforce and future talent pipeline – creating exciting career opportunities in nuclear science and technology. Key Metrics: - Over 50,000 young people reached in primary, secondary schools and colleges in the academic year - In 2025, AWE has hired from 41 universities across the UK - Over 110 schools reached in the same academic year - Sponsorship of Primary Science Centre at Queen Mary's College reaching 3,400 children - 240 joiners across three early careers programmes during 2025 (Evolve Graduates, Year-In-Industry, Apprentices) - 93 Evolve Graduates joining AWE - 82 Apprentices joining AWE in 2025 - 65 Year-in-Industry students joining from 27 universities - 67 DSUS graduates joining for nine-week summer programme - Over 350 STEM Ambassadors - Over £3.4M of social value generated through work in schools Our industry-leading early careers programme: - Evolve Graduate Scheme and Year-in-Industry Programme partnering with UK universities across Engineering, Science, Operations, Project Management, Finance, and HSEQ. - Apprenticeship Programme spanning Level 2 to Level 6 Bachelor's degree. Defence STEM Undergraduate Sponsorship (DSUS) Scheme: - In partnership with MOD, sponsoring STEM studies and hosting undergraduates on a nine-week summer programme. Securing a skilled workforce and inspiring future generations: - Delivery partner of the Nuclear Skills Plan launched in May 2024. Investing in construction skills for the future: - Sponsorship of the BSc Construction Management course at the New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE). AWE hosted several high-profile events and conferences that promote partnerships and collaborations across industry and academia: - Physics Student Conference: Annual event bringing together sponsored PhD students across leading UK universities. - Regional Defence & Security Cluster Event: Hosted with OBC RDSC and STFC on 'Delivering the UK's nuclear warhead: a National Endeavour'. - Farnborough Airshow 2024: First-time exhibitor engaging around missions and supply chain opportunities. - Computing Insight UK Conference (CIUK): Sponsored and presented new Centres of Excellence. - NuFor 2024: Multidisciplinary nuclear forensics conference co-organised with the Institute of Physics marking its 6th anniversary. - Strategic Alliances Partners Conference: Held at Armourers' Hall in London with DNO and NCUB. - DPRTE: Engagement with the UK's leading defence procurement and supply chain forum. - Engineering Expo 2025: Inaugural expo with over 1,300 attendees, interactive workshops, and STEM exhibits. Honours, awards, and recognitions for AWE colleagues and academic partners: - AWE's Defence Industry Early Careers Engineering Prize: Awarded to Catherine Smith (Reliance Precision) with Worshipful Company of Engineers. - 2025 Women in Construction & Engineering (WICE) Awards: Mel Rechert and Nicky Cox won in Mentor and Civil Engineering categories. - 2025 Women's Engineering Society (WE50) Awards: Anna Terry and Davina Urquhart named among Top 50 Women in Engineering. - Year-in-Industry Prize: Chloe McAlister (University of Brighton) sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Armourers and Brasiers. - King's Birthday Honours 2025: * Professor Andrew Randewich CBE (Executive Director Science) * Giles Hartill MBE (Chief Technologist) * John Whitaker OBE (Retired nuclear defence engineer) - STEM for Britain 2025: Max Merrett (Gold Medal in Physics category) and Wayne Lack honoured as finalists. - Academic Appointments & Fellowships: * Caroline Bull: Director of UK Research Centre in Non-destructive Evaluation (RCNDE). * Ian Vernon: Appointed William Penney Fellow. * Nick Bazin: Visiting Professor at University of Surrey. * Scott McCulloch: Visiting Professor at University of Strathclyde. * Roy Awbery: Honorary Professor at Bangor University. * James Benstead: Visiting Professor at University of Surrey. * Mark Whiting: Full Professor at University of Surrey. Looking Ahead by Sam Laidlaw, AWE Chairman: 'In a dynamic global environment, effective, safe and secure delivery of our mission is vital to the UK and for international security. To achieve this, we must continue to cultivate partnerships with industry and academia, harnessing world-leading knowledge and expertise to keep our country safe... Partnering effectively in support of our National Endeavour is a critical ambition to which AWE remains fully committed.' What AWE Offers: By working in collaboration with academia and industry, we are investing in knowledge, skills and expertise for the nuclear defence sector and the UK's STEM pipeline. Contact Us: External Technical Partnerships Office (ETPO) Email: [email protected] Website: WWW.AWE.CO.UK Social: @AWE_PLC