Defence: Training

Defence is progressing the implementation of the Pan Defence Skills Framework (PDSF), which is the Defence Skills Framework referenced in the 2025 Defence Industrial Strategy. The PDSF represents a transformative shift in how Defence understands, develops and deploys skills across both military and civilian workforces, supporting Defence’s ambition to become a more agile, skills-based organisation.

Programme governance is in place and Tranche 1 of activity is underway. The onboarding of the single Services and the Civil Service (those under the pre-Defence Reform structure of MOD Main) is scheduled to begin from December 2025, in a phased rollout.

Initial implementation has already seen:

• The first trial cohort for Engineering (Army, Royal Air Force (RAF), Royal Navy (RN)) onboarded, with the enablement of the Skills-Based Supplement, which went live on 22 April 2025. The Skills Based Supplement trial is informing a new flexible and targeted approach to remuneration that aligns with Defence's transition to a Skills-Based Organisation. This trial provides 3,200 engineering service personnel with payments of up to £2,700, which will help Defence evaluate wider implementation of skills-based rewards to enhance retention in highly demanded skills across the Armed Forces.
• The RN and RAF onboarded their first cross-skill area cohort for the Digital, Data and Technology (DDAT) profession on 13 October 2025.

Mass onboarding is expected to follow:

• The RN and RAF are preparing to begin broader onboarding from December 2025.
• The Army is expected to follow in early 2026, with onboarding phased by rank.
• MOD Main civil service onboarding is anticipated to commence from February/March 2026.

Looking ahead, Tranche 2 will expand PDSF to cover additional skills, onboarding of Arms-Length Bodies, and refine the underpinning technology. This will ensure Defence has the agility to align skills with future workforce demands, evolving technology, and the challenges of a rapidly changing security environment.