Jonathan Cole, BT Defence Director, is steering his team through a period of significant transformation within the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD). With a distinguished 35-year career in the British Army, culminating as a Major General and Director of Information, Cole brings a wealth of operational, policy, and acquisition expertise to his role. His leadership is shaping BT’s contribution to the MOD’s digital backbone, ensuring it remains secure, modern, and adaptable to evolving threats.
Cole oversees a diverse portfolio, including the Defence Fixed Telecommunications System (DFTS) and Integrated User Services (IUS), which are critical to the MOD’s operational capabilities. His focus is on fostering innovation and collaboration to deliver a robust digital infrastructure that meets the defence sector’s unique demands.
“This is a time of great change for Defence,” Cole said. “I’m committed to working with our customers and partners to help deliver a modern, secure digital backbone that users can exploit. BT is a trusted partner with world-leading technology products and services that can assist Defence in many ways in pursuit of the national interest.”
Cole’s background in digital and information technology, intelligence, and security positions him uniquely to navigate the complexities of defence technology. His experience as the Army’s Chief Information Officer at board level, combined with his academic credentials—a BEng (Hons) in Electronics, an MSc in Defence Technology, and an MA in International Security and Strategy—equips him with a deep understanding of both the technical and strategic dimensions of defence.
Beyond his professional achievements, Cole is an active participant in a range of activities, from road cycling and hillwalking to surfing and skiing, often sharing these pursuits with his wife and four adult children. His commitment to community and charity work is evident in his roles as Colonel Queen’s Gurkha Signals and a board member of the Gurkha Welfare Trust.
As the defence sector continues to evolve, Cole’s leadership at BT Defence is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of military communications and digital infrastructure. His vision for a secure, modern digital backbone underscores BT’s commitment to supporting the MOD’s mission, ensuring that the UK’s defence capabilities remain at the forefront of technological advancement.