Exail Appoints New Leader for Mine Warfare Systems Development in the UK

1 May 2026

Ben Vickery. (Image credit: Exail)

Exail, a global leader in maritime robotics, navigation solutions, and aerospace, has appointed Captain Ben Vickery for Mine Warfare Systems development. Following a distinguished career in the Royal Navy, Ben Vickery brings top-tier strategic expertise in Mine Countermeasures (MCM). He will primarily focus on driving Exail actions in the UK and will also support the company’s development overseas.

This appointment reflects Exail’s commitment to strengthening its ties with Navies and accelerating the adoption of its cutting-edge solutions in the underwater battlespace, particularly in MCM and autonomous underwater robotics

Operational Expertise in the Service of Innovation

Prior to joining Exail, Captain Ben Vickery served with distinction in the Royal Navy. An expert in Mine Warfare and Military diving, he most recently held the position of Head of the UK Military Diving Capability. He has commanded at every level from a MCM Vessel, the coalition Surface MCM Force Commander in the Arabian Gulf, to being the Force Commander for MCM, Future MCM, Diving and Patrol Forces. He has overseen a number of complex operations and transformations, including playing a pivotal role in modernizing the Royal Navy’s mine clearance capability, whilst his leadership was instrumental in integrating these new technologies to protect critical infrastructure and ensure freedom of navigation.

“We are honored to welcome Ben to our Mine Warfare team. His operational experience at the helm of the Royal Navy’s Diving and Mine Warfare Branch is an invaluable asset. As underwater threats evolve rapidly, his strategic vision will enable us to better meet the critical needs of modern naval forces. His extensive experience will not only reinforce Exail’s expertise in Mine Countermeasures but will also play a key role in fostering long-term support and partnerships within the UK and beyond, ensuring the sustained delivery of high-performance, innovative solutions,” said Antony Penn, MCM Commercial Director of Exail.

“I am delighted to join Exail at such a pivotal time for the defense industry and global security, especially regarding Mine Warfare challenges. Having witnessed the effectiveness of Exail’s technologies, I am convinced that our autonomous robotics solutions are key to both removing personnel from the danger zone and increasing operational efficiency. I look forward to contributing to the company’s global expansion and strengthening our partnerships with allied defense forces,” said Ben Vickery.