QinetiQ has been announced as a major sponsor of the 2026 national Armed Forces Day event.
Farnborough, the home of QinetiQ’s headquarters, and nearby Aldershot have been chosen to host the annual event on Saturday 27 June. The announcement of QinetiQ’s involvement comes as Rushmoor Council and the Ministry of Defence mark 100 days to go until the event, which will take place at Queen’s Parade in Aldershot.
Based at Cody Technology Park in Farnborough, QinetiQ employs 1,200 people at its headquarters who are part of a 8,000 strong workforce delivering critical, mission-ready military capability to the UK and its allies.
Steve Wadey, Group Chief Executive Officer, QinetiQ, said: “Throughout our 25-year history, we’ve been a vital part of the UK’s defence industrial base, working alongside armed forces personnel at sites across the country and around the world.
“We’re one of the biggest employers in Farnborough and Aldershot and our people, many of whom are veterans or reservists, have deep connections to the military, either through their families or the highly skilled work they do to support warfighting readiness.
“We’re excited to be partnering with Rushmoor Council and the Ministry of Defence to deliver this year’s Armed Forces Day, celebrate our incredible armed forces personnel and highlight the role that local companies, like QinetiQ, play in providing the UK’s defence and national security.”
Through world‑class test and training facilities, specialist mission support and operations, cutting‑edge research and development, and deep engineering expertise, QinetiQ is a vital part of keeping the UK safe at home and abroad.
As well as being a strategic partner to the Ministry of Defence, QinetiQ works closely with allied governments, industry, academia and SMEs to develop advanced technologies, including laser directed energy weapons, and keep frontline assets such as the RAF’s Typhoon in action.
Alex Baker, MP for Aldershot and Farnborough, said: "I am absolutely delighted that QinetiQ has come on board as a Platinum Sponsor of National Armed Forces Day 2026. Working alongside Rushmoor Borough Council, I was proud to secure the bid to bring this national celebration to Aldershot and Farnborough, and it is fantastic to now be partnering with companies like QinetiQ, whose expertise plays a vital role in ensuring our Armed Forces can meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.
“As one of the largest employers across Aldershot and Farnborough, and a company with deep connections to our Armed Forces community, their support means a great deal. Our towns are the home of the British Army and the birthplace of British aviation, and companies like QinetiQ are part of our proud story, developing the technologies and capabilities that help keep our country safe.
“This national celebration will bring our community together to thank the men and women who serve, as well as the veterans, reservists and cadets who are such an important part of life here. I’m grateful to QinetiQ for helping us ensure that Aldershot and Farnborough deliver a celebration worthy of our Armed Forces, and a weekend our towns will remember with pride."
