Dennis joins UK Ministry of Defence panel!

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Ron Dennis devising about world affairs at the UK's Ministry of Defence isn't exactly what we had in mind for the former McLaren headman following his departure from Woking.

The recently ousted McLaren chairman and CEO will be deploying his expertise on a newly-formed world class innovation panel sponsored by the Ministry of Defence.

Alongside British astronaut Tim Peake and intelligence officer Robert Hannigan, the 69-year-old executive will act as an advisory to the panel, bringing "his global perspective to meet the UK's security challenges."

"There can be nothing more important than our national security," Dennis said.

"I'm enthusiastic to be among the first of those named to this world-class panel, who have joined MOD to spearhead their efforts to innovate across the organisation, from technology to culture -- challenging the status quo, staying ahead of the curve through change and innovation."

The Defence Innovation Advisory Panel, supported by a £800M fund, will be responsible with driving forward the MOD's 'Innovation Initiative', which encourages imagination, ingenuity and entrepreneurship, in pursuit of maintaining military advantage in the future.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.