Defence Sector and Industry Join Forces with Launch of New Collaboration Hub at RAF Wyton

RAF Wyton, in collaboration with industry partners, inaugurated the FAIRFAX Collaboration Hub on 27 August 2026, marking a pivotal advancement in transforming the station into the UK’s hub for intelligence excellence. This significant event coincided with RAF Wyton’s annual Families Day, attended by approximately 2,000 families.

Collaborative Efforts in Intelligence Innovation

The Hub, part of a joint initiative involving Defence Intelligence, Huntingdonshire District Council, and four industry partners—CGI, CDS Defence & Security, MAIAR, and Vantor—forms an integral component of Project FAIRFAX. Nestled within the secure confines of RAF Wyton, this facility provides the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and its partners with a dedicated venue to foster innovation, operate a development laboratory, and conduct outreach and STEM initiatives.

Wyton has been earmarked for substantial defence investment over the next five to seven years, with the Collaboration Hub representing the initial phase of an expansive plan to cultivate an intelligence ecosystem emanating from the station. This initiative aims to strengthen connections between Defence, industry, and academia under the auspices of Project FAIRFAX.

The Role of Defence Intelligence

Defence Intelligence operates within the Cyber and Specialist Operations Command, delivering analytical insights that underpin UK defence decision-making. By utilising geospatial and open-source intelligence, it aids commanders, policymakers, and allies. RAF Wyton has historically played a crucial role in this domain, housing the National Centre for Geospatial Intelligence along with other Defence Intelligence capabilities. This established legacy makes Wyton a fitting location for the new Collaboration Hub, building on decades of investment in intelligence capabilities.

Air Vice-Marshal Adam Bone, Director of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance, emphasised the importance of this collaboration, stating, “The threats facing this country are growing more complex by the day. Defence Intelligence’s partnership with industry and academia at Wyton is about staying ahead of those who wish us harm, equipping our personnel with the tools and insights necessary to safeguard the UK.” He further remarked that the Hub represents a tangible step towards creating an intelligence ecosystem that will bolster the nation’s ability to protect its interests in the years ahead.

Significance of the FAIRFAX Collaboration Hub

Wing Commander John Grenville, Station Commander of RAF Wyton, described the launch of the FAIRFAX Collaboration Hub as a significant milestone for both Project FAIRFAX and the station itself. He noted, “This hub is not only the first building of Wyton Campus, but it also exemplifies the strengthening relationship between Defence, Huntingdonshire District Council, and our key industrial partners. FAIRFAX enhances our capacity to deliver for UK Defence while simultaneously providing tangible benefits to the local community. I am confident that under FAIRFAX, Wyton will maintain its reputation as a centre of intelligence excellence, while also offering exciting opportunities for local residents and driving regional growth.”

Project FAIRFAX aligns with the directives outlined in the Strategic Defence Review, positioning Defence as a catalyst for growth in the east of England. By fostering genuine partnerships with industry and local authorities, Defence is evolving its relationships from mere client-supplier dynamics to collaborative alliances.

Community Engagement and Future Plans

Richard Bradley, Managing Director of CDS Defence & Security, highlighted the shift in partnership dynamics, stating, “The FAIRFAX Collaboration Hub signifies a real transition from a client and supplier relationship to a genuine partnership with Defence, where we collaborate with our valued partners at Wyton to address challenges together. Our shared space enables ideas to transition from discussion to tangible capabilities with greater efficiency.”

Plans for the legacy airfield at Wyton include redeveloping the site into a science and technology park, further integrating industry with the station. The establishment of the Collaboration Hub marks the first step in this ambitious journey.

CGI expressed its support for Project FAIRFAX, with Paul March, Vice President of Consulting Services, stating, “We have a longstanding relationship with Defence at RAF Wyton, and our personnel are part of the local community. The vision for FAIRFAX aligns seamlessly with CGI’s objectives to foster innovation, enhance STEM outreach within communities, and prepare the workforce for Defence’s future needs. We regard this as a long-term commitment to Wyton and the broader Huntingdonshire community, and we eagerly anticipate contributing to the success of the FAIRFAX Collaboration Hub.”

Families Day Highlights

Despite the arrival of the first rain in weeks which curtailed planned air displays, the MOD Police drones showcased their capabilities in the skies. Families were treated to a variety of entertainment, including a climbing wall, an inflatable assault course, and a petting farm, alongside static displays and stalls hosted by local charities, clubs, and community groups, as well as food and beverage vendors.

The mission of Wyton remained at the forefront during the celebrations, with displays from the 1 ISR Wing, RAF Intelligence Reserves, and local emergency service partners illustrating the breadth of expertise stationed at Wyton and its ongoing contributions to national security.

For further information about Defence Intelligence, please visit the Military Intelligence Services page on the official government website.