AWE – the company that provides and maintains warheads for Trident, the UK’s nuclear deterrent – has a new man at the top.

Kevin Bilger has been appointed as managing director of AWE, which has a weapons base in Aldermaston and Burghfield.

Mr Bilger, former vice-president of Lockheed Martin President, Programmes and Quality for Space Systems Company, was previously responsible for programme management, programme planning, supply chain management and quality assurance across a broad portfolio of space and missile systems business.

His association with Lockheed Martin spans over 30 years, spending his early career in satellite design engineering for US national security, civil and commercial space systems.

Referring to AWE, Mr Bilger said: “I’m honoured to join this exceptional organisation, and look forward to continuing the high standard of innovative scientific research, engineering and associated production to ensure an effective UK nuclear deterrent.”

Commenting on the appointment, John McLachlan, chairman of AWE, said: “Kevin has been central to shaping Lockheed Martin’s Space System Company future with a focus on instituting changes in engineering, manufacturing and business methods that have resulted in significant cycle time reduction, cost savings and extraordinary business results.

“His depth of sector experience and technical insight is a great match for our organisation.

“This coupled with his focus on programme performance and quality provides a strong platform to lead AWE through the next phase of change.”

Mr McLachlan has also announced that Rob Fletcher will become AWE deputy managing director.

AWE is contracted to the Ministry of Defence through a Government-owned Contractor Operated (GOCO) arrangement.