Overview
This event will see participants play through a nuclear-focused version of the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl)'s CONTESTED wargame. Dstl, an executive agency of the UK's Ministry of Defence that provides world-class science, technology and analysis expertise, developed CONTESTED to represent strategic competition in an accessible and concise manner.
The game will be followed by a sharing of insights and reflections, analysing the participants' decision-making processes as well as the likelihood of nuclear use.
This event will offer participants an opportunity to gain exposure to questions of both nuclear deterrence and wargaming.
No prior wargaming experience is required, but an interest in nuclear deterrence is desirable.
Who Should Attend
This event is open to members of the UK PONI network. If you are not a member yet, you can sign up here. UK PONI offers an opportunity for early career professionals in the nuclear field (whether in academia, government or industry) and postgraduate students interested in nuclear topics to connect and network in an informal setting.
Joining Instructions
Please register your interest to attend.
This is an in-person only event for UK PONI members, taking place at RUSI, 61 Whitehall, London, SW1A 2ET. The deadline to register your interest for this event is Wednesday 22 July 2026.
We expect a high volume of applications; please note that spaces are limited. You will be notified by Friday 24 July 2026 if you have been selected to participate.
For any questions related to this event, please email [email protected].
