James Hanlon is the CTO and Head of Engineering for the Future Capability Innovation (FCI) team within UK MOD Defence Equipment and Support. He has worked in engineering and project leadership roles in the defence environment throughout his career, particularly in support of UK helicopter programmes. James joined FCI in 2024 to provide engineering and technology leadership across the FCI portfolio.

FCI exists to accelerate novel ways of working and technology into operational capability, consisting of a Prototype Warfare Team and a Capability Accelerator Team. Both teams work closely with front line commands, mission partners and the wider MOD, including on the rapid development and fielding of Uncrewed Systems and Digital Battlefield C2 systems.