AFCEA/USNI WEST 2022

CDR Derek Powles, RN
Assistant Naval Attaché on the British Naval Staff
Royal Navy


CDR Powles is the Assistant Naval Attaché on the British Naval Staff in Washington, DC. He has served extensively at sea, primarily in Engineering roles, to include as Engineer Officer in HMS SCOTT and Marine Engineer Officer in HMS RICHMOND. Ashore, he has served in numerous challenging roles in shipbuilding, ship repair, logistics, acquisition and training. Most recently, he served as Staff Marine Engineer Officer (SMEO) to Flag Officer Sea Training, South (FOST(S)). A challenging assignment maintaining world class operational sea training, including for First of Class HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH and coalition warships ahead of CSG21, delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2012, he served in an ashore Joint operational role in Afghanistan on the staff of the UK National Contingent Commander (UKNCC). In this role he was responsible for the oversight of all UK tri-service posts embedded within HQ ISAF organisations. CDR Powles holds a Masters in Engineering from the University of Surrey.

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