Defence Academy

Discover how Lt Col René Laporte supports future leaders on the Advanced Command and Staff Course — from leadership curriculum design to driving innovation through the Hacking for MOD module. 🇨🇦🇬🇧 🔗Read more: da.mod.uk/what-we-do/our…

A new portrait honouring the pioneering Rev (Sqn Off) Elsie Chamberlain has been unveiled, marking 80 years since her commissioning as the first female chaplain in the armed forces. Read more 👉 da.mod.uk/news/2026/port…

Shrivenham Station deepens ties with Oxfordshire’s Civilian Military Partnership. Great to welcome Oxfordshire County Council’s CMP to the Defence Academy for a day focused on collaboration, community support and the Armed Forces Covenant. Read more: da.mod.uk/news/2026/shri…

The Defence Academy is embracing next gen tech to strengthen learning. From a 3D-printed turbojet engine to advanced ISR sensors and the new StormShroud UAV, students are getting hands on with the tech shaping tomorrow’s battlespace. Read more 👉 da.mod.uk/news/2026/defe…

Ahead of International Women’s Day, we look back at a recent visit to the Defence Academy by Viktoriia “Tori” Honcharuk. A former frontline medic in Ukraine, Viktoria’s leadership on and off the battlefield inspires us all. Read her story👉ow.ly/Qqir50YpuvX #IWD2026

Congrats to Capt Tom Harrison RN, Hd of DCMCI’s Tech & Capability Gp, awarded the NATO Meritorious Service Medal for his work with NATO Mission Iraq (2023–24), strengthening Iraq’s defence education and training. A superb achievement and NATO’s highest individual award👏

The Defence Academy strengthens South American partnerships through human security training. Delivered to 30 students from across the region at Chile's National Academy of Political and Strategic Studies, covering women, peace and security, and protection of civilians.

A productive visit with Brig Gen Tan Tiong Keat, Comdt SAFTI Military Institute, exploring command & staff courses, PME and, leadership and trainer development. Valuable discussions on curriculum transformation and future collaboration. 🇬🇧🤝🇸🇬 UKinSingapore

Seeing the new portrait honouring Christopher “Kit” Tanner — the most decorated chaplain in Royal Navy history was a privilege. Painted by renowned maritime artist Geoff Hunt, the portrait celebrates an extraordinary legacy of courage & service ⚓️ @RoyalNavy

A new portrait of Christopher “Kit” Tanner GC, the most decorated Royal Navy chaplain in history, has been unveiled at the Armed Forces Chaplaincy Centre. His courage continues to inspire. ✨⚓Read more: ow.ly/vblm50Y3FYt

After an immersive first term exploring global security, alliances and strategic thinking, Advanced Command and Staff Course 29 members ended the term travelling overseas to Europe for Regional Security Exercise 1. Read more👉ow.ly/cnWF50XVuG4

✨Happy New Year from the Defence Academy! As we step into 2026, we celebrate the achievements of the past year and look forward to new opportunities, learning, and growth together. Here’s to a successful year ahead!

🎄Merry Christmas from the Defence Academy! We extend our warmest wishes to staff, students, and our local community. Enjoy this festive season with family and friends, and we look forward to welcoming you back for an exciting new academic year in 2026!

On 10 Dec in Tirana, Advanced Command and Staff Course personnel honoured the fallen at Commonwealth and German War Graves cemeteries during the Regional Security Exercise in Albania. A powerful act of remembrance and reconciliation, the UK and Germany now stand united in NATO.

Last week, Pre-Royal Military Academy Sandhurst officer cadets met a Sandhurst team for briefings and interviews, then celebrated at a passing-out parade led by Brigadier Mark Beynon. Congrats and best wishes for the next stage! Read more👉ow.ly/6b0950XK9sV @RMASandhurst

It was one of the greatest honours as PM to work so closely with our amazing Armed Forces. So it was a privilege to speak to those completing the Advanced Command and Staff Course at @DefAcUK - from both the UK and our allies - as they embark on the next stages of their careers.

ICYMI: On #HumanRightsDay, we’re reflecting on an earlier highlight, when HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh visited the Defence Academy to observe the Human Security in Military Operations course. Read more👉ow.ly/3C1n50XGJuC

International Day at the Defence Academy brought together families from 50 nations for a vibrant celebration of culture, connection, and community. 🌍✨ From traditional dishes to national dress, the Cormorant Building became a global showcase👉 ow.ly/jcq650XFChX

How do ideas become operational capability? BTC students saw it firsthand at RM Instow: trials, data-driven decisions, and cutting-edge tech like unmanned surface vehicles are shaping the future of amphibious ops. [2/2]

Students from the Battlespace Technology Course visited the Amphibious Trials and Development Wing at RM Instow, gaining insight into how trials turn concepts into trusted capability. From USVs to deep-wading demos—innovation meets reality. [1/2]