The Defence Nuclear Enterprise (DNE) is proud to have sponsored a new foresighting report from the Workforce Foresighting Hub, delivered by the MTC through the High Value Manufacturing Catapult. This pivotal study outlines the future skills and capabilities required to implement advanced Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) systems in the maintenance of in-service nuclear submarines – a critical step in modernising the UK’s defence infrastructure.
As the Royal Navy and its industrial partners work to reduce the Deep Maintenance Period (DMP) at Devonport Dockyard, the adoption of cutting-edge NDT technologies will enable smarter, more predictive maintenance and condition monitoring. However, this transformation demands a change in workforce capability.
The report identifies 120 future capabilities, many of which align with existing Skills England Occupational Standards. Yet, it also highlights the need to look beyond traditional frameworks – referencing technology roadmaps such as BINDT’s NDE 4.0 – to ensure training and education keep pace with innovation.
Key engineering standards, including those for NDT engineers and robotics specialists, form a strong foundation. But gaps remain, particularly in emerging roles like NDT Data Analyst and Condition Monitoring Engineer. These roles will be essential as data science, machine learning, and AI become increasingly integrated into engineering practice.
The DNE are now exploring how to take forward this activity with colleagues from across the enterprise including the validation of new skillsets and how to support the early stage development of educational content, striving to build a resilient, future ready defence workforce.
DNE will continue to collaborate across sectors to ensure the UK remains at the forefront of defence innovation.
