Howard Body was the Head of Strategic Net Assessment at the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) from its inception to his retirement from government service in March 2024. In this role, he promoted novel analytical approaches, developed new organisational processes, recruited talented and experienced strategists, and oversaw research programmes on the UK’s balance of strategic advantage against major competitors to support long-term strategic planning.

He also played a pivotal role in establishing the Secretary of State’s Office for Net Assessment and Challenge, responsible for the provision of independent advice to the Secretary of State and the Defence Board. Previously, he led the strategic analysis area for the MOD, where he reintroduced strategic wargaming into Head Office.

He began his military career in the New Zealand Army before joining the Royal Navy, where his operational service included submarines, exchange with the RAF and the Royal Marines and served as Military Assistant to the German Chief of Staff at NATO’s Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe.

His educational background is in history (King’s) and international security policy (Geneva Centre for International Security Policy).

Research

• Strategic advantage, its history and practice
• Strategic net assessment approaches and methods
• History and impact of strategic assessments

Teaching

• Royal Naval Staff College
• Royal Naval Engineering College Defence Studies Degree Course