Skip to main content

Written question asked by Stuart Anderson (Conservative) on Friday, 28 August 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 2 September 2026. It was answered by Calvin Bailey (Labour) on Tuesday, 8 September 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.


Cadets: STEM Subjects

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 92 of his Department’s Strategic Defence Review, published 2 June 2025, what progress he has made on providing a greater focus within the Cadets on developing STEM skills and exploring modern technology.

Answer

The Strategic Defence Review identified the importance of providing cadets with greater opportunities to develop STEM skills and engage with modern technologies.

Progress has already been made in this area. Across the Cadet Forces, cadets currently achieve around 2,300 cyber-related qualifications and 1,000 drone-related qualifications each year, providing valuable skills in digital technologies and emerging capabilities.

The forthcoming Cadet Forces Action Plan, due to be published in October 2026, will set out further measures to increase opportunities for cadets in STEM, cyber, unmanned aerial systems (drones) and other emerging technologies. This will include investment aimed at doubling cadet participation in cyber activities and expanding the drone flying programme.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
21615
Session
2026-27
Related items
Deposited Paper DEP2025-0341
Monday, 2 June 2025
Deposited papers
House of Commons
Subjects
Cadets STEM subjects
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk