14/08/2026
🚀 Innovation in Action at RAF Brize Norton.
The RAF Brize Norton ASTRA Team recently welcomed colleagues from the Logistics and Support Innovation, Research & Experimentation Team for a productive two-day visit focused on exploring the technologies and ideas helping to shape the future of Defence.
The visit provided an excellent opportunity to share knowledge, strengthen partnerships and discuss how innovation could address real-world challenges across Defence. Topics included AI-enabled vehicle maintenance reporting, advanced manufacturing techniques, Light Fidelity technology for use in explosive environments, and cyber security innovation.
A highlight of the visit was a demonstration by Tactical Medical Wing, which showcased the Critical Care Air Support Team capability aboard a Royal Air Force Globemaster (C-17) aircraft. Attendees saw how the aircraft could be rapidly transformed into an airborne hospital, enabling critically ill or injured patients to be monitored, treated and cared for whilst in flight.
The ASTRA Team also shared its vision for the forthcoming Brize Norton ASTRA Hub, a dedicated innovation and creativity space designed to help personnel develop new skills, experiment with emerging technologies and bring ideas to life.
The ASTRA Hub will offer opportunities to learn and collaborate in areas including:
✅ 3D Printing.
✅ Laser Etching and Engraving.
✅ Coding and Digital Skills.
✅ Virtual Reality.
✅ Drone Racing and STEM Activities.
The visit demonstrated the value of collaboration between innovators, specialists and Defence experts in developing practical solutions, driving continuous improvement and delivering future capability.
A huge thank you to the Logistics and Support Innovation, Research and Experimentation Team and Tactical Medical Wing for their support and expertise. We look forward to building on these partnerships and continuing to drive innovation across Defence.
