Pathfinder International Magazine – the leading UK Military Resettlement Magazine

Tag: Military Discounts

  • Major housing deal completed, bringing benefits to forces families

    Major housing deal completed, bringing benefits to forces families

    Contracts were exchanged between MOD and Annington in December, and the formal completion this week sees taxpayers regaining ownership of 36,347 houses.

    This landmark deal has ended the £600,000 daily rental bill – totalling more than £230 million a year – and makes major housing redevelopment and improvements possible.

    The estate is now valued at £10.1 billion when not subject to leases and is being purchased for just under £6 billion – providing excellent value for money to the taxpayer and representing one of the largest value commercial housing deals in UK history. The impact on net financial debt is confined to £1.7 billion.

    The agreement frees up our ability to build on the Service Family Accommodation estate with more modern houses, helping reduce maintenance costs and, as part of work facilitated by the deal, programmes to build new houses are being accelerated.

    Planning applications will be submitted in the coming days for 265 new houses and apartments at RAF Brize Norton, and further plans will be submitted in the Spring for around 300 new houses at Catterick Garrison.

    National security is foundational to the Government’s Plan for Change. This deal will help to deliver on the Government’s milestones on kickstarting economic growth and boosting housebuilding across the country, and on our commitment to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve.

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said:

    “By reversing one of the worst Tory privatisations of the 1990s, we have opened up a once in a generation chance to improve homes for our armed forces and their families, who sacrifice so much to keep us safe. This deal is already saving the taxpayer £600,000 a day – and will put us back in the driving seat as we renew and rebuild family accommodation.

    “Our forthcoming military housing strategy will draw on leading independent experts to capitalise on these savings. This Government is unrelenting in our commitment to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve.”

    Work on the new military housing strategy has begun, with plans for its publication later this year. Key principles of the strategy will include: a generational renewal of Armed Forces accommodation; new opportunities for forces homeownership; and better use of MOD land to support the delivery of affordable homes for families across Britain.

    The first steps in the strategy will include the rapid development of an action plan to deliver on the “once in a generation” opportunities unlocked by this deal. This work will involve independent experts, forces families and cross-government input.

    The original sale in 1996 did not strike an appropriate balance of risk and reward, and it is estimated the taxpayer is nearly £8 billion worse off as a result. Money which should have been better spent on maintaining and improving our service family homes.

     

  • Thousands of British troops to lead major NATO exercise in Eastern Europe

    Thousands of British troops to lead major NATO exercise in Eastern Europe

    Thousands of UK personnel will continue to deploy to Europe in the next two months to spearhead a major NATO exercise. Leading from the front, the UK is providing the largest contribution of forces with over 2600 personnel, and 730 vehicles deploying to NATO’s eastern flank.

    Throughout January and February 2025, NATO will conduct Exercise Steadfast Dart 25 to practice the deployment of the new Allied Reaction Force, which can rapidly reinforce NATO’s eastern flank. These important exercises will showcase the Alliance’s readiness, capability, and commitment to defend every inch of NATO territory.

    The UK’s 1st Division will be in command of all of NATO’s land forces in the exercise, continuing Britain’s proud tradition of leadership in NATO and demonstrating this government’s unshakeable commitment to the Alliance.

    The exercises will see the UK Armed Forces join thousands of personnel from ten NATO Allies, operating across Romania and Bulgaria coinciding with the anniversary of Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

    Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard MP, said:

    “This Government wants the UK to be NATO’s leading European nation. Exercise Steadfast Dart demonstrates our unshakeable commitment to NATO and highlights the UK key leadership role in the Alliance.

    “As we approach the three-year anniversary of Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we must continue to strengthen our collective defences together to deter Putin effectively.”

    Keeping the country safe is the Government’s first priority, and an integral part of its Plan for Change. The work of the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force, is critical to the security and stability of the UK, supporting all of the Government’s five missions in its plan.

    This exercise will help to improve co-ordination and cooperation between NATO Allies, particularly in the early phases of deployment. The ability of NATO to rapidly deploy is reliant on nations being able to seamlessly operate alongside each other.

    Having a high-readiness forces that can operate across land, air, and sea to respond to emerging threats is a critical component of NATO’s defensive plans. The new Allied Reaction Force will not only support the Alliance’s defence in times of crisis but strengthen deterrence against our adversaries – including Russia.  It will ensure that forces from across the NATO alliance can come together at shorter notice that has ever been possible before.

    730 vehicles including Foxhound and Jackals will deploy by road, air, and sea to Eastern Europe where they will conduct two exercises before returning to the UK at the end of February.

     

  • Royal Navy warship deployed on Christmas mission to shadow Russian naval group

    Royal Navy warship deployed on Christmas mission to shadow Russian naval group

    The Royal Navy kept a constant watch on a Russian naval group throughout the Christmas holidays as it sailed past the British Isles.

    Nearly 200 crew of frigate HMS Somerset were recalled to their ship in Devonport Naval Base on Christmas Day and sailed on Friday December 27, making best speed to shadow the corvette RFS Soobrazitelny and her two support vessels, MV Sparta II and MV General Skobelev.

    From the North Sea, the Russian ships were constantly monitored as they passed through the Dover Strait and into the English Channel. The Russian ships remained in international waters throughout the transit.

    The Prime Minister has stressed that keeping the country safe is the Government’s first priority, and an integral part of its Plan for Change. The work of the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force, is critical to the security and stability of the UK, supporting all of the Government’s five missions in its plan.

    HMS Somerset’s Commanding Officer, Commander Joel Roberts, said:

    “As the UK is an island nation, at all times of the year the Royal Navy maintains units at very high readiness to conduct operations in support of the UK’s national objectives.

    “Maintaining maritime security, demonstrating an assertive presence, ensuring compliance with maritime law, and deterring malign activity in our territorial and adjacent waters are essential components of our maritime strategy and crucial to our national interests.”

    With conditions in the Channel and North Sea foggy, aside from visually monitoring the Russian ships’ progress, HMS Somerset used her extensive suite of hi-tech sensors to follow the trio for more than 500 miles.

    When the weather has cleared, the ship’s Merlin helicopter – provided by 814 Naval Air Squadron at RNAS Culdrose in Cornwall – became airborne to support the monitoring mission and also capture imagery of both the Russian vessels and HMS Somerset’s shadowing operation.

    Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard, said:

    “I would like to thank the crew of HMS Somerset for their dedication after readying themselves for action at short notice during the Christmas period, and promptly setting sail from Devonport to keep the UK safe.

    “All the sailors involved are testament to the professionalism of the UK Armed Forces, with thousands more sailors, soldiers, and aviators keeping us secure at home and strong abroad, throughout the year.”

     

  • British soldiers successfully test drone killer radiowave weapon for first time

    British soldiers successfully test drone killer radiowave weapon for first time

    British soldiers have successfully trialled for the first time a game-changing weapon that can take down a swarm of drones using radio waves for less than the cost of a pack of mince pies.

    The Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (RFDEW) development system can detect, track and engage a range of threats across land, air and sea.

    RFDEWs are capable of neutralising targets up to 1km away with near instant effect and at an estimated cost of 10p per shot fired, providing a cost-effective complement to traditional missile-base air defence systems.

    The RFDEW is different from Laser Directed Energy Weapons – such as DragonFire – because it uses a radio frequency to disrupt hostile threats, rather than a laser beam of light energy.

    The weapon uses high frequency waves to disrupt or damage critical electronic components inside devices such as drones, causing them to be immobilised or fall out of the sky. It can also be used against threats on land and at sea.

    The British Army successfully trialed a demonstrator version of the RFDEW. The development system has been produced by a consortium led by Thales UK and including sub-contractors QinetiQ, Teledyne e2v and Horiba Mira and supports up to 135 high-skilled jobs in the UK.

    This progress helps deliver on the Government’s Plan for Change by rapidly advancing technologies and building on the strong foundation of national ssecurity. It’s high level of automation means the system can be operated by a single person and could be mounted onto a military vehicle, such as a MAN SV, to provide mobility.

    Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, said:

    “The successful firing by the British soldiers of our Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon is another step forward for a potentially game-changing sovereign weapon for the UK. It’s great to see defence experts and industry working collaboratively to put cutting-edge equipment in the hands of our Armed Forces.

    “This is a demonstration of the UK remaining at the forefront of directed energy weapons and developing a crucial advantage against the emerging threats we face.”

     

  • 50 Teams. 1 Epic Race. Are You In?

    50 Teams. 1 Epic Race. Are You In?

    Think you’ve got what it takes to conquer the UK? This September, it’s time to push your limits, outsmart the competition, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime.

    Introducing Race Across the UK, where strategy, grit, and a thirst for excitement will be your greatest tools.

    Use this once in a lifetime adventure to jointly raise money to support Naval families facing challenges such as life changing injuries, mental health issues or financial difficulties.

    Dates: Tuesday 2nd September – Friday 5th September 2025

    Event capacity: 50 teams of 2

    Start: Edinburgh

    End: Dartmouth

    This isn’t just a race—it’s an unforgettable journey. You’ll navigate the country using nothing but public transport, your wits, and your sense of adventure.

    Here’s the challenge:

    ✨ No map apps. No shortcuts

    ✨ Navigate epic checkpoints and thrilling challenges

    ✨ Celebrate the UK’s maritime heritage at iconic seafaring landmarks.

    Your transport, your accommodation, your strategy – it’s all up to you. With only your teammate by your side, you’ll need to craft the perfect plan, conquer challenges, and beat the clock while uncovering the UK’s hidden gems.

    Oh, and did we mention? There’s a limited budget too.

    This isn’t just a race – it’s an epic test of skill, creativity, and endurance, all in support of Royal Navy and Royal Marines families in need.

    🎯 50 TEAMS ONLY!

    Think you can handle it? Spaces are limited, so don’t wait.

    Get involved here

     

  • Top secret lab develops atomic clock using quantum technology

    Top secret lab develops atomic clock using quantum technology

    Military personnel will use groundbreaking quantum technology to conduct more secure and precise operations, thanks to a new high-tech atomic clock.

    Developed at the top-secret Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, (Dstl) the quantum clock will be a leap forward in improving intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance by decreasing the reliance on GPS technology, which can be disrupted and blocked by adversaries.

    The clock’s precision is so refined that it will lose less than one second over billions of years, allowing scientists to measure time at an unprecedented scale. It is the first device of its kind to be built in the UK and will be deployable on military operations in the next five years.

    The applications of quantum clocks extend beyond precision timekeeping. Further improvement to GPS accuracy could transform global navigation systems, aiding in everything from satellite communication to aircraft navigation.

    The development of this cutting-edge technology supports key components of the UK Government’s Plan for Change, safeguarding national security while supporting skilled, productive jobs which foster economic growth.

    In addition, further research will see the technology decrease in size to allow mass manufacturing and miniaturisation, unlocking a wide range of applications, such as use by military vehicles and aircraft.

    Improved clocks, such as this atomic device, will allow the Ministry of Defence to further support current and future capabilities. For example, quantum clocks can:

    • Enable more precise and independent navigation systems, reducing reliance on GPS satellites, which are vulnerable to jamming or destruction in conflict scenarios.
    • Secure communications systems, such as encrypted military networks, which depend on highly synchronised timekeeping.
    • Enhance the accuracy of advanced weapon systems, like guided missiles, which rely on accurate timing to calculate trajectories and coordinate attacks.
    • Allow our Armed Forces to gain an edge over adversaries in timing-critical operations, especially in areas like cyber warfare, where milliseconds can make a difference.

    Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, said:

    “Integrating cutting edge technology into existing capabilities exemplifies the Government’s commitment to innovation in the defence sector, and to ensuring our Armed Forces have the best kit possible to keep us secure at home and strong abroad.

    “The trialling of this emerging, groundbreaking technology could not only strengthen our operational capability, but also drive progress in industry, bolster our science sector and support high-skilled jobs.”

     

  • Celebrating the ASF and Greenwich Hospital Partnership

    Celebrating the ASF and Greenwich Hospital Partnership

    At the Andrew Simpson Foundation (ASF) we believe partnership working significantly expands and diversifies opportunities in and around the water for young people.

    Our new partnership with Greenwich Hospital has seen ASF supporting the launch and delivery of two successful programmes for children and young people from serving Royal Naval families – RNSA Youth Crew and Swim Free.

    Greenwich Hospital supports serving and veteran Royal Navy, Royal Marine and Royal Fleet Auxiliary personnel and their families and have for over 325 years. They aim to make a real and lasting difference to the lives of those who serve our Nation.

    Working in collaboration the Royal Naval Sailing Association (RNSA), the ASF is the delivery partner for RNSA Youth Crew. The programme is delivered from seven locations across the UK and enabled 350 young people from the Royal Navy community to achieve their RYA Stage 1 and 2 certificates in 2024. In total the programme has provided over 2000 days of activity, including family days and regular participation clubs, funded by Greenwich Hospital.

    Deirdre Mills, Director of Greenwich Hospital, said:

    “We are absolutely delighted to be working in partnership with the Andrew Simpson Foundation. The ASF team has proved itself to be amazingly professional and totally dedicated to providing a lifechanging experience for our young people. We look forward to a long collaboration.”

    This year has also seen the launch of the Swim Free, a brand-new programme – funded by Greenwich Hospital and delivered through the ASF – for children and young people from serving Naval families to learn how to swim.

    Swimming is an essential life skill for young people that allows them to develop their confidence in and around the water. Through developing confidence and key skills, Swim Free also broadens the opportunities available to young people, such as participating in the RNSA Youth Crew programme.

    Since launching in November 2024, Swim Free has already supported over 50 young people from serving naval families to access free swimming lessons, with the programme due to support a total of 1000 young people in 2025.

    Richard Percy, the ASF CEO said:

    “As we look ahead to 2025, both the RNSA Youth Crew and Swim Free will support thousands of young people and families from the Royal Navy community. Partnering with Greenwich Hospital has allowed the ASF to reach even more young people, and through working together, transform their lives through sailing and watersports”

     

     

  • Invictus Games Foundation Welcomes Rob Owen OBE as Incoming CEO

    Invictus Games Foundation Welcomes Rob Owen OBE as Incoming CEO

    The Invictus Games Foundation is delighted to announce the appointment of Rob Owen OBE as its new Chief Executive Officer.

    Rob will officially take over the reins at the end of February 2025 following a few weeks of shadowing the outgoing CEO, Dominic Reid OBE, in January.

    Lord Allen, Chair of the Invictus Games Foundation, expressed his confidence in Rob’s leadership:

    “The Board of Trustees is thrilled to welcome Rob Owen OBE as our new CEO. Rob’s proven track record in building strong partnerships, fostering inclusive workplace cultures, and driving innovative funding mechanisms makes him the ideal choice to lead the Foundation into its next chapter. As we look ahead to the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 this February, we are excited for Rob to build on the incredible momentum and global impact that Dominic Reid has established over the past decade.”

    Rob brings with him a wealth of experience, including 16 transformative years as CEO of St Giles Trust. Under his leadership, the charity grew from a regional organisation to a nationally recognised, award-winning entity, delivering impactful programs and saving the UK taxpayer an estimated £2.5 billion.

    Further proving his suitability for the Invictus Games Foundation’s beyond the Games programmes, Rob has climbed Mt Everest and Mt McKinley, reached both the North and South Poles, completed Marathon des Sables, the New York Marathon, the Devizes to Westminster kayak Race, and pulled a sledge three times around the London Marathon.

    Rob Owen OBE shared his enthusiasm for the role:

    “I am honoured to be joining the Invictus Games Foundation, an organisation that has changed lives and saved lives over the past ten years, and inspired the world along the way. As the Foundation prepares for the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, I am eager to start working alongside the team, our partners, and, most importantly, the incredible community of competitors and their families to ensure this mission continues to thrive and grow.”

    Dominic Reid OBE, who has served as CEO since the Foundation’s inception, leaves behind a remarkable legacy. Reflecting on his tenure, Dominic said:

    “Leading the Invictus Games Foundation has been an immense privilege. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved in creating an enduring legacy of support for international wounded, injured, and sick Service personnel and veterans through the power of sport. Rob’s outstanding leadership and empathy make him perfectly suited to take the Foundation forward, and I wish him every success.”

    The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, set to take place in February, will mark a significant milestone in the Foundation’s journey, showcasing the resilience and determination of the international community with new Winter sports for the first time. Rob’s appointment post Games signals a new era of leadership, ensuring the Foundation continues its vital work in supporting those who have served, ahead of the upcoming Invictus Games Birmingham 2027.

     

  • Global Strategic Sealift Contract secures military operations

    Global Strategic Sealift Contract secures military operations

    UK Armed Forces will benefit from a new long-term strategic sealift contract supporting the transport of crucial defence equipment and supplies, as well as sustaining 150 UK jobs.

    The Ministry of Defence has awarded the seven-year contract, worth £476 million, to UK-based Foreland Shipping Limited (FSL), ensuring the continued support of military operations and strengthening national security, through strategic sea lift.

    This comes as Defence Secretary John Healey recently announced that UK based defence firms will be prioritised for government investment under a new Defence Industrial Strategy that will drive economic growth, boost British jobs, and strengthen national security.

    Under the contract, FSL will provide four roll-on roll-off shipping vessels capable of transporting essential equipment and supplies, including armoured vehicles, emergency medical supplies and complex weapons, across the globe.

    Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, said:

    “By ensuring the efficient movement of equipment and supplies, strategic sealift is pivotal to our ability to respond rapidly to emerging threats, project global reach, and sustain critical operations.

    “The long-term nature of this contract guarantees stable employment for workers across the nation. This investment reflects the government’s commitment to supporting jobs, driving economic growth, and safeguarding the UK’s national security.”

    The vessels are operated by UK national sponsored reserves, a unique category of reservists who are members of the civilian workforce and join the reserves as a condition of service. This arrangement allows them to be called up to support the Armed Forces in times of crisis.

    The contract will protect FSL’s UK workforce of around 150 personnel nationally, 97% of whom are reservists. By providing this critical capability to UK Defence, the contract will retain skilled personnel and boost economic growth over the next seven years, acting on the Government’s Plan for Change with investment and reform to deliver growth.

     

  • UK continues to step up for Ukraine as new funding announced to bring war criminals to justice

    UK continues to step up for Ukraine as new funding announced to bring war criminals to justice

    Britain has continued to step up global leadership on Ukraine during 2024, with billions of pounds worth of military, economic, and humanitarian support pledged and delivered. 

    As the government’s ironclad support continues into 2025, £4.5m is to aid Ukraine’s efforts in seeking justice for war crimes committed during Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The funding is designed to support Ukraine’s documentation, investigation and prosecution of war crimes, and complements the UK’s work with US and EU partners via the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group.

    Since the start of Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, the UK has offered or extended sanctuary to over 300,000 Ukrainians and our support will continue to reach Ukrainians who need it most. On 4 February 2025, the Home Office will open applications for eligible Ukrainian visa scheme holders to remain in the UK for an additional 18 months under the new Ukraine Permission Extension scheme.

    Those eligible can apply online, and the scheme will provide the same rights and entitlements as the existing Ukraine Schemes, to access work, benefits, healthcare and education.

    It comes after the Defence Secretary visited Kyiv to announce a new £225m package of military support and meet with his counterpart, Rustem Umerov, to set out the five priority areas for UK defence support in 2025, underlining the UK’s commitment to support Ukraine for as long as it takes.

    The UK has now provided Ukraine with more than 400 different types of military capabilities. These include the delivery of the first 100 of a package of 650 Lightweight Multirole Missiles (announced in September) in recent days, as well as advanced maritime equipment through the UK-Norway co-led Maritime Capability Coalition to bolster Ukraine’s naval capabilities, which have proved critical in denying the Russian navy access to the western Black Sea and enabling Ukraine to restart grain exports.