Royal Navy Regional Capability Demonstration at Cutlers Hall, Sheffield
The Royal Navy hosted a successful Regional Capability Demonstration at Cutlers Hall, Sheffield. The event highlighted the Royal Navy’s vital role in protecting UK interests and welcomed regional businesses, organisations, and individuals to engage with naval capabilities and explore partnership and collaboration opportunities. The event featured a welcome address by Commodore Tom Knowles, Naval Regional Commander for Northern England and the Isle of Man. Attendees gained valuable insights into the Royal Navy’s current operations, capabilities, and strategic contributions to national security and global stability. In addition to Royal Navy displays and demonstrations, the evening focused on the purpose and ongoing expansion of the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Defence and Security Cluster (Y&H RDSC), showcasing the region’s growing importance in the UK’s defence landscape. The event also featured a performance from Royal Marines Band (Corps of Drums) and was closed with Evening Colours ably conducted by Sea Cadets from the local unit.
Connecting Defence with Industry
Dedicated exhibitors were on hand to explain the wide-ranging functions and roles of the Royal Navy. Attendees had the opportunity to network with Royal Navy personnel and learn how the defence sector is driving economic growth and innovation across Yorkshire and the Humber. Representatives from the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (RFCA YH) discussed opportunities for employers to support the Armed Forces by becoming an Armed Forces Covenant (AFC) signatory and joining the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS). The evening was rounded off with three Armed Forces Covenant signings by Sheffield Forgemasters, WDS Components, and Walker Morris LLP. The signing of the Armed Forces Covenant is described as ‘the nation’s commitment to support the UK Armed Forces community’
Partnerships that will strengthen capability
Commodore Tom Knowles said:
“The Regional Capability Demonstration at Cutlers’ Hall is an important opportunity to showcase how the Royal Navy continues to deliver credible capability, strong partnerships and tangible value across Yorkshire and the Humber. Working closely with the Yorkshire and Humber Defence and Security Cluster, events like this strengthen our relationships with civic leaders, industry and communities, and help build greater understanding of how naval capability contributes to national security and regional prosperity”.
Employers interested in information about AFC and ERS, go to www.rfca-yorkshire.org.uk/employers
More information about YH RD&S at www.yorkshirerdsc.co.uk
