In this episode, marking the inaugural National Cadets Week, Brig. Anthony Lamb MBE DL, Head of Youth and Cadets at the Ministry of Defence, and Sqn. Ldr. Kath Lane, Deputy Wing Commander for the Cumbria and Lancashire Wing of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, explore the role of the cadet movement in reconnecting defence with society, supporting young people, and strengthening national resilience.
In conversation with Viktorija Starych-Samuolienė, Co-President (Strategy) of the Council on Geostrategy, they examine how the cadet experience can build confidence, teamwork, discipline, and practical life skills. The discussion also looks at opportunities in cyber capabilities, drones, aviation, engineering, and STEM, and how these experiences can introduce young people to future careers across defence, industry, and the emergency services. Drawing on her own experience as both a former cadet and an adult volunteer, Sqn. Ldr. Lane reflects on the impact the organisation can have on young people from a wide range of backgrounds.
The conversation considers what sustainable expansion will require, including more adult volunteers, improved facilities and digital support, and stronger partnerships across government, education, charities, and industry. Brig. Lamb also explains how cadets can reach parts of society that traditional defence does not and contribute to greater national resilience. Looking to the future, he sets out an ambition for the cadet forces to be recognised not simply as a defence activity, but as a national youth asset embedded across British society.
