UDSS is pleased to work with the City of London Club, coordinating the defence speakers for its Breakfast Briefings programme.
This Autumn, two Defence Review Breakfasts will bring together leading perspectives on the technological and geopolitical developments shaping the future of defence.
Richard Drake: The Impact of Autonomous Vehicles on Defence
Wednesday 9 September 2026
Richard Drake PhD FIMechE, General Manager of Anduril Industries UK, will examine how autonomous vehicles are transforming defence capabilities and the wider sector.
Richard leads Anduril Industries’ defence work in robotics and artificial intelligence in the UK. He previously served as Chief Technology Officer at Babcock International and has received the Royal Academy of Engineering Medal for Pandemic Service.
Drawing on his extensive leadership experience, Richard will explore the growing role of autonomous technologies and the opportunities and challenges they present for defence.
Rt Hon Tobias Ellwood: Geopolitics and Defence
Tuesday 3 November 2026
The second breakfast will feature the Rt Hon Tobias Ellwood, Senior Consultant at Universal Defence and Security Solutions, speaking on “Geopolitics and Defence.”
Tobias served as MP for Bournemouth East from 2005 to 2024 and previously chaired the House of Commons Defence Select Committee. He was Minister for Defence Veterans, Reserves and Personnel and began his career as an officer in the Royal Green Jackets, later rising to the rank of lieutenant colonel in the 77th Brigade as a Reservist.
Bringing together his political, military and strategic experience, Tobias will consider the changing geopolitical landscape and its implications for defence and security.
UDSS looks forward to welcoming members and guests to the City of London Club for two timely and thought-provoking discussions. Contact the City of London Club for more information.