Program Overview

Royal Engineers Force Protection Engineering Course

The Royal Engineers Force Protection Engineering Course is an advanced program that explores the fundamental theory underlying security engineering. It enables experienced practitioners to apply their detailed knowledge to provide appropriate advice and solutions to a range of force protection engineering problems.

Course Overview

The course aims to provide a detailed assessment of the threats and damage mechanisms coupled with a range of solutions or mitigating techniques. It consists of 6 weeks of lectures, presentations, tutorials, and practicals, followed by a week of visits covering vehicle impact, hardened structures, barriers, and perimeter security. The final week involves a project that leads to formal presentations by all students.

Course Structure

• One course per year
• 8 weeks duration per course
• Location: Cranfield University at Shrivenham
• Cost: Fee for 2026 to be confirmed, with concessions available

Core Content

The course covers the following topics:

• Weapon design
• Materials, armour, and terminal ballistics
• Blast loading
• Rapid structural assessment
• Structural response to blast, ballistic, and impact loading
• Groundshock and ground penetration
• Design of structures to resist accidental explosions
• Fences, barriers, and perimeter security

Target Audience

The course is suitable for those with a degree in civil engineering or a similar discipline.

Speakers

The course features a range of expert speakers, including:

• Dr Erik Pickering
• Dr Aimee Helliker
• Mike Harris
• Dr Clare Knock
• Steve Champion
• Dr Richard Critchley
• Dr Lisa Humphreys
• Dr Hugh Goyder
• Dr Rachael Hazael
• Jeremy Smith
• Dr Shaun Forth
• Dr Matthew Healy
• Dr David Crouch
• Dr Guillaume Kister
• Dr Jonathan Painter

Concessions

A limited number of MOD-sponsored places are available.

Location and Travel

Cranfield Defence and Security (CDS) is located at the Ministry of Defence establishment on the Oxfordshire/Wiltshire borders. Shrivenham lies in the picturesque Vale of the White Horse, close to the M4 motorway, which links London and South Wales.

Related Courses

Related courses include:

• Counter IED Capability
• Explosives Ordnance Engineering

Defence and Security

Cranfield University offers a range of programs and research opportunities in Defence and Security, with partnerships and study options available.