RAD, a leading marine technology company specialising in high performance electric propulsion and maritime autonomy, announced the appointment of Chris Shepherd to lead the expansion of its defence business, effective 1 May 2026.

Chris joins RAD at a pivotal time, as defence customers increasingly seek uncrewed, low signature and energy efficient maritime systems. Building on RAD’s strong reputation in electric propulsion and autonomy, he will focus on extending the company’s capabilities into the defence domain and supporting next generation naval operations.

In his new role, Chris will be responsible for expanding RAD’s involvement in UK defence programmes, developing strategic partnerships across prime contractors, SMEs, and autonomy providers, and positioning RAD’s technology at the core of future uncrewed maritime capability.

Chris Shepherd said: “RAD has already established itself as a leader in electric propulsion and maritime autonomy. The opportunity now is to apply that expertise to defence, where there is clear and growing demand for uncrewed, energy efficient systems. I’m excited to help scale RAD’s impact in this space and work with partners across the ecosystem to deliver meaningful capability.”

Chris brings extensive experience across the defence, aerospace, and autonomy sectors. He has held senior roles at Thales, L3Harris, and MBDA, where he led complex, high value programmes across maritime, land and air. His track record includes leading business units, recovering challenging programmes, and delivering critical capability into service at pace, including in operationally urgent environments.

More recently, Chris has been at the forefront of the uncrewed maritime sector, leading the rapid deployment of autonomous surface systems for defence customers and supporting innovative operations for the UK and allied nations. He has also advised a number of SMEs in the autonomy and maritime sectors, helping them scale, compete and secure wins in demanding defence markets.

Dan Hook, CEO of RAD, said: “Chris brings exactly the blend of strategic insight, delivery experience, and deep customer understanding that we need as we expand into defence. There is a clear shift underway towards electrification, modularity and open architectures in naval capability and RAD is well positioned to play a leading role. Chris’s appointment strengthens our ability to partner, scale and deliver at pace in this important market.”

RAD is committed to advancing clean, efficient and intelligent maritime technologies. With growing demand for uncrewed and electrified systems, the company is uniquely positioned to support defence customers seeking next generation capability.

Chris will also be attending the Combined Naval Event 2026 where RAD is exhibiting and will be launching a new defence focussed product line. Combined Naval Event Overview – Navy Leaders