About this Event
We're pleased to invite you to this year's WJB Christmas Debate:
'Cultural Transformation for a Hybrid Navy'
As navies around the world embrace autonomy, artificial intelligence and uncrewed systems, much of the conversation focuses on technology. But is technology really the hardest part?
This year's debate will explore the cultural challenges of delivering a Hybrid Navy, and what needs to change if new capabilities are to reach their full potential.
Panelists:
- Hybrid Navy Programme Director, - Mike leads BAE Systems' Hybrid Navy campaign and previously served as the Royal Navy's Head of Future Capability Development, where he was responsible for shaping future fleet concepts and accelerating maritime innovation. His experience spans naval operations, capability development, acquisition and the introduction of autonomous and uncrewed systems into maritime operations.
- Owner and Managing Director of - Claire brings extensive expertise spanning operations, programme delivery and supply chain management. Under her leadership, FDS has supported pioneering maritime capability initiatives, including the NavyPOD programme and the development of Hybrid Navy concepts. Claire's experience across both major defence primes and innovative SMEs will provide a valuable perspective on the opportunities and challenges of delivering a successful Hybrid Navy.
- Chief Engineer, - Andy comes with extensive experience across some of the Royal Navy’s most significant maritime programmes. Before joining Helsing, he served as Chief Engineer across major programmes within MOD Defence Equipment & Support, leading the MRSS engineering team and supporting FADS and MHC OSV. His career has also included contributions to the Type 45 destroyer and Type 26 and Type 31 frigate programmes. At Helsing, he is now working at the intersection of maritime engineering and software-defined capability.
Chief Naval Architect for Naval Ship Design, - Andy is a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects, with more than 35 years’ experience in naval ship design. He has led concept, feasibility and acquisition studies for UK and international clients across surface combatants, support ships and submarines. His experience includes the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers, Tide-class tankers and Type 31, alongside numerous future ship concept designs. Andy has also written extensively on future warship design, adaptability and mission modularity.
More panelists across the and the will be announced over the coming weeks.
📅 7 December 2026
🕕 1800-2000 (arrival from 1745)
🥂 Drinks reception from 2000
📍 Apex City of Bath Hotel, Bath
We look forward to welcoming members, guests and colleagues from across the maritime, defence and technology communities for what promises to be a lively and thought-provoking evening.
Event venue & nearby stays
Apex City of Bath Hotel, James Street West, Bath, United Kingdom
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