In this Edition ...Summer 2026

Colonel Joe Cooper, RSI Director

This Summer 2026 edition of the Journal of the Royal Corps of Signals reflects a Corps - and a profession - at an inflection point. Across its pages runs a consistent theme: that operational advantage in contemporary conflict derives less from individual technologies than from the ability to integrate, govern, and exploit them coherently, at pace and at scale. From strategy and doctrine through to technical delivery and lived experience, the contributions in this issue collectively underline that success in the information age will depend as much on architecture, data, and leadership as on platform or kit.

We open, as ever, by celebrating the people who embody the Corps’ ethos. The report on the 2025 RSI Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony captures an Institution growing in confidence and reach, bringing together serving personnel, veterans, and industry partners in recognition of professional excellence and shared purpose.

There are several strategic contributions. Howard Tweedie’s argument that “strategy is architecture” challenges conventional geopolitical framing, contending that the United Kingdom’s freedom of action will rest on its ability to build and protect a resilient digital backbone across Defence and its industrial base. Complementing this, Dr Martin Crilly explores leadership in an AI-enabled battlespace, emphasising that while artificial intelligence accelerates decision-making, it is human judgement, trust, and culture that will ultimately determine success. SSgt Mat Garman extends this debate into the philosophical and ethical domain, probing the gap between machine processing and human understanding, and the implications for how we perceive - and employ - AI in conflict.

In the context of global competition, Brigadier Mike Fayers’ “Technology 10” highlights the fusion of emerging capabilities as the decisive factor, while Professor Aled Catherall’s examination of GNSS vulnerability is a stark reminder that modern societies - and militaries - are critically dependent on fragile, contested systems. Together, these contributions reinforce the necessity of resilience, interoperability, and a whole-of-system view.

Artificial intelligence and data are explored in depth. Lt Col Elliot Shale’s analysis of narrow AI demonstrates both its immediate operational utility and its inherent limitations, arguing for careful governance and human-machine teaming. Capt Graham Beaver’s “Data Before Algorithms” provides a salutary warning: without robust data foundations, AI risks becoming a liability rather than a force multiplier. Meanwhile, Maj Durgan Cooper highlights the opportunities and risks of AI-accelerated software development, underscoring the need for disciplined adoption aligned with secure-by-design principles.

Technical and engineering perspectives broaden the discussion. From questions of digital sovereignty and “veto power” in globalised systems, to the enduring importance of TEMPEST and cyber leadership in critical national infrastructure, these articles remind us that the fundamentals of assurance, control, and professional competence remain as important as ever. Dr Richard Davis’ critique of defence acquisition adds a candid appraisal of structural and cultural barriers to delivery.

The expanding importance of the Space, Cyber, and Electromagnetic domains is a defining feature of this edition. Contributions from personnel within UK Space Command emphasise that space is not merely an enabler but an operational domain in its own right - one in which data, interoperability, and control of the electromagnetic spectrum confer decisive advantage.

Finally, our people’s professional achievements and our historical pieces reconnect us with the human dimension. From innovative industry placements and mentoring initiatives to accounts of Operation Varsity and the evolution of the telephone, they illustrate continuity amidst change: that while technology evolves, the Corps’ enduring strength lies in its people, their ingenuity, and their professionalism.

Taken together, this issue offers both a warning and an opportunity. The pace of technological change is unforgiving, but with clear thinking, strong leadership, and a commitment to integration, the Royal Corps of Signals is well placed not only to adapt - but to lead.

Best, Joe