Jason Crawford

Founder, HardFork Ltd | Defence & Security Transformation Leader | Former RAF Fast Jet Pilot

Jason Crawford brings 32 years of distinguished military, pan-government, and international experience to his role as founder of HardFork Ltd and its registered brands SurgeCell and Drone Match. A former RAF fast jet pilot turned transformation leader, Jason has commanded at the highest levels of UK defence while pioneering acquisition reform and digital strategy initiatives that have reshaped how the Ministry of Defence approaches complex programme delivery.

Strategic Programme Leadership

Jason's recent senior roles demonstrate exceptional capability in conceiving, winning, and delivering transformational defence programmes. As Senior Responsible Owner for Defence Mission Data, he conceived and led the groundbreaking £420 million Mission Data for Information Advantage (MD4IA) Programme—delivering a Defence-wide enterprise approach to Electronic Warfare and Mission Data that ensures military air, land, and sea platforms can survive and operate in contested environments. This pathfinder programme became a cornerstone of broader acquisition reform initiatives across the MOD.

His command experience includes leadership of the Joint Cyber and Electromagnetic Activities Group, where he commanded 1,500 military and civilian personnel worldwide with a £100 million budget. In this role, he delivered sensitive information and data to political and military decision makers across a complex cross-government environment, while encouraging organisational transformation and building endorsed strategic visions for the future.

Acquisition Reform & Innovation Champion

Jason's influence extends beyond programme delivery into fundamental reform of defence acquisition processes. Currently serving as Strategic Adviser to the MOD Department of Acquisition and Programme Delivery, he has been instrumental in delivering the Integrated Procurement Model for Ministers while advising UK Strategic Command and Front Line Commands on portfolio and programme delivery aligned with reform initiatives.

His track record of championing innovation through clear, evidence-based advocacy has resulted in over £1.2 billion of new Defence business during his military service. This ability to translate complex technical requirements into compelling strategic narratives has made him a sought-after adviser to MOD capability teams on building investment cases.

Operational Foundation & Technical Expertise

Jason's strategic acumen is built upon a solid foundation of operational experience as an RAF fast jet pilot and subsequent roles spanning electronic warfare, uncrewed systems, weapons systems, and test and evaluation. His tenure as Director of the Joint Electronic Warfare Operational Support Centre included serving as Lead User for complex operational data projects and UK lead for Allied Electronic Warfare governance and coordination.

This operational credibility, combined with his deep understanding of information warfare and mission-critical data systems, positions him uniquely to bridge the gap between operational requirements and technological solutions in an increasingly complex threat environment.

Commercial Excellence & International Expertise

Through HardFork Ltd, Jason provides 'business development as a service' to both Prime contractors and Small/Medium Enterprises across the UK and Sweden. His client portfolio spans Electronic Warfare, uncrewed systems, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Transformation, IT Services, Systems Integration, Training and Simulation, Military Logistics and Engineering, and sustainable energy sectors.

His international specialisation in UK-Swedish industrial relations reflects broader expertise in overseas market entry and export strategies, helping clients navigate complex international defence markets and forge strategic partnerships.

Academic Leadership & Continuous Learning

Jason's strategic thinking is underpinned by advanced academic credentials including Master's degrees from the University of Birmingham (Air Power with distinction) and the United States Air Force Air University (Global Strategic Studies). As a graduate of the Major Project Leadership Academy at Oxford's Said Business School, he continues to advance best practices in complex programme delivery and organisational transformation.

HardFork & SurgeCell Vision

As founder of HardFork Ltd and the SurgeCell brand, Jason has created a consultancy that uniquely combines operational credibility with strategic vision and commercial acumen. His extensive network across MOD, DE&S, and the Single Services, coupled with broad recognition and respect across the defence industry, enables HardFork clients to access unparalleled insight and influence within the UK defence ecosystem.

Jason's approach to consultancy reflects his military background—delivering clear, actionable solutions that achieve measurable results while building long-term strategic advantage for clients navigating the complex landscape of modern defence and security challenges.