Ultra Intelligence & Communications (Ultra I&C) marked the inauguration of its Cyber Centre of Excellence in Maidenhead, a testament to bolstering cybersecurity resilience while nurturing Stem talent in the UK.
Unveiling the facility at a ceremony on 22 March following a £30m ($37.8m) investment, the site is poised to become a focal point for cybersecurity advancement and talent cultivation. Occupying a sprawling 56,000 square feet, the facility will serve as a nucleus for 250 engineers, reinforcing the UK’s cyber technology development.
Moreover, the centre will actively engage with local schools and participate in initiatives like the CyberFirst programme to identify and nurture young talents interested in cybersecurity.
Richard Dingley, president of Ultra I&C’s cyber business, emphasised the strategic significance of the Maidenhead Cyber Centre of Excellence, stating: “Opening this location solidifies our long-term commitment to developing the skills and capabilities required to ensure the UK and our partners are protected and prosperous in the future.”
Cyberattacks are increasingly targeting critical national infrastructure, global financial institutions, and the power grid. The UK has published a cyberattack strategy; however, as GlobalData’s intelligence on the UK defence market outlines, even maintaining best practices in this field does not guarantee protection.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed a convergence of industry leaders, government officials, and clients, including representatives from the UK Ministry of Defence.
Former UK Prime Minister and current Member of Parliament for Maidenhead Theresa May lauded Ultra I&C’s initiative, highlighting its role in fostering STEM careers and fortifying the nation’s resilience against evolving cyber threats.
She remarked: “Ultra I&C’s Maidenhead facility represents a significant investment in the community to build skills, develop more careers in STEM and support the UK’s ability to respond to, and combat, the threats of the future.”
May also highlighted the attractiveness of investment in Maidenhead: “It’s close to London” and also emphasised that she hopes that this is a “catalyst for a cyber excellence hub in Maidenhead” in the hope that it will attract other investments.
In addition to its strategic location near London, the Maidenhead Cyber Centre of Excellence underscores Ultra I&C’s commitment to sustainability. It features on-premise Solar PV energy generation and an Integrated Building Management System (IBMS) to optimise energy efficiency.
With its launch, the Maidenhead Cyber Centre of Excellence symbolises a landmark achievement for Ultra I&C and hopes to improve cybersecurity resilience and STEM empowerment in the UK.
