UKINNOVATION UK25 The NATS Technology Roadmaps visualise the many rela-tionships that exist between the various interconnected programmes that make up the UK aerospace innovation process and supply chain. The maps show that research conducted at the science base is ultimately connected to industrial Aerospace Technology Validation Programmes, and that everything is strategically necessitated by global market drivers and products. Why this is important This implementation of the NATS enables UK aerospace to clearly articulate to all of its stakeholders across the sector the areas of technology and investment focus needed to ensure the UK retains its ranking as the world's second- largest aerospace economy in an increas-ingly globalised and competitive market. NATS provides the framework to translate science through to innova-tive technologies and processes, from the research base through to market. Since 2004, NATS has attracted combined industry-government investment of £ 464m across more than 80 projects and programmes which are already validating technologies that will lead to greater efficiency, safety and service in the next generation of aircraft. Current examples are the Airbus UK- led NGCW ( Next Generation Composite Wing), the Rolls- Royce- led EFE ( Environmen-tally Friendly Engine), AgustaWestland- led REACT ( Rotor Embedded Actuation Technology), and the ASTRAEA ( Autonomous Systems Technology Related Airborne Evaluation and Assessment) programme, which is being implemented by a cross- industry consortium. Operations The Aerospace and Defence KTN identifies Knowledge Transfer activities to further the creation of collabora-tive partnerships with effective funding to deliver pro-grammes of technology research and development that are in alignment with the NATS. To do this, we aim to create more connections, with less noise by acting as a revolving door to the sector; if you walk in, we'll spin you around and back out in the right direction! With our unique access to areas of the sector, we are able to deliberate the right direction for you via the following: » » Aerospace and Defence KTN- led or sponsored events. In recent months the Aerospace & Defence KTN has led a Simulation Showcase where UK government departments presented their needs from simulation capability, the next phase will be to enable industry to brief Government on possible solutions. In October 2009 the KTN is delivering the first- ever National Aerospace Technology Strategy Conference including presentations from NATS programmes and updates on emerging research themes. » » One- to- one sessions held at these events with specialist consultants in order to greater arm members, companies and individuals with knowledge on the best way to attract funds. » » Regular webinar conferences hosted by area specialists on a range of topics including European funding, Research Council funding, National Technical Committees and more. » » A fortnightly newsletter promoting key strategies, updates and events across the sector, as well as opportunities to meet and engage with the KTN. » » Monthly topic features on areas of interest across the sector. » » A live and evolving website hosting technology news and information on events, NATS, roadmaps and NTCs. The website also provides collaborative working spaces for members, allowing them to use public/ private user areas in which they can upload/ download documents and information. The Aerospace & Defence KTN is currently working with academia and industry to investigate possible needs for a UK Aerospace Research Institute as well as engaging a broad range of stakeholders regarding varying aspects of sustainable aviation. To learn more, connect to NTCs or register specific requests, e- mail the KTN team directly ( see box, overleaf) or contact: E- mail: aeroktn@ sbac. co. uk Website: www. aeroktn. co. uk The National Technical Comites Providing detailed advice with regards to the R& D pro-grammes are the 12 National Technical Committees ( NTCs). NTCs are points of contact of insight, acting as advisory groups to the other interested communi-ties, the government and other sectors. They relate to key technology themes that will be the foundation for future technology research & development. NTCs currently operate for the following specialist areas: » » Advanced Design & Manufacturing » » Autonomous Systems » » Electrical Power Systems » » Electronics Systems » » Environmental Technologies » » Fluid Dynamics » » Health Management & Prognostics » » Human Factors » » Materials & Structures » » Simulation & Synthetic Environments » » Sustainable Air Transport Services » » Systems Engineering & Open Architecture. The KTN understands that inclusivity is the key to unlocking innovation throughout the nation, and understanding the critical technology themes throughout the sector. If you would like to con-tribute to one or more of the NTCs, e- mail Sameer Savani at: sameer. savani@ sbac. co. uk Aerospace & Defence Aerospace & Defence KTN

26INNOVATION UK Space Special interest group The Aerospace & Defence KTN is now host to the Space Special Interest Group, a pan- KTN interest group seek-ing to create a unified business voice into the recently launched UK Space Innovation and Growth Team ( IGT) Project. The purpose of the Space IGT is to involve the entire UK space community in setting out the challenges and opportunities that will govern its future value, com-petitiveness and hence growth. This will inform a 20- year strategy for the future of the British space industry that will see Britain become a leader in the world space land-scape, as well as contributing revenue, jobs and value to the UK economy. For more information on the Space Special Interest Group contact: Ruth Mallors, Director - A& D KTN E- mail: Ruth. mallors@ sbac. co. uk Mel Witherow, Space SIG Coordinator E- mail: melinda. witherow@ sbac. co. uk Aerospace & Defence Knowledge Transfer Network We challenge conventional wisdom when original thinking delivers better results. Designing her ramp to keep Caimen- 200 stable when beached freed our naval architects to shape her hull for greater speed through the water. She glides along up to twice as fast as more conventional landing craft. Our rapid, multi- disciplinary BMT InSpira ® team approach to research delivers innovative concepts. Our commitment to their development assures their continuing refinement. Our alertness to the possibilities created enables us to exploit these outcomes in many different directions. How about trading higher speed for greater economy and a greener footprint? Contact us to find out more. Green light for innovation © BMT Defence Services 2009, Image credits DefenceImaging. com Caimen and BMT InSpira ® are registered trademarks of BMT Defence Services Active bow ramp design - patent applied for 0805120.3 " Where will our knowledge take you?" BMT Defence Services Ltd Maritime House 210 Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3DQ, UK T: + 44 ( 0) 1225 473 600 E: warships@ bmtdsl. co. uk W: www. bmtdsl. co. uk BMT_ InnovationUK09_ Advert( 124x178). pdf 10/ 8/ 09 10: 42: 20 The Aerospace and Defence KTN - who we are NameRoleE- Mail Ruth Mallors DirectorRuth. mallors@ sbac. co. uk Sameer SavaniOperations ManagerSameer. savani@ sbac. co. uk Daniel JonesCo- ordinatorDaniel. jones@ sbac. co. uk Peter MurrayResearcherPeter. murray@ sbac. co. uk Bettina RiggInfrastructureBettina. rigg@ sbac. co. uk Aerospace & Defence Aerospace & Defence ktn