[3] He studied geography at the University of Nottingham, graduating in 1977 with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree.

[2] He undertook a Master of Arts (MA) degree in defence studies at King's College, London, graduating in 1993.

[9] Following a tour in the Air Secretary's Department, Staff College (graduating in 1992), a Force Development appointment in the Ministry of Defence,[9] and promotion to wing commander in 1993,[11] Bryant served as a Senior Operations Officer at the Combined Air Operations Centre at Vicenza in 1996, before being appointed Commanding Officer of 43(F) Squadron at RAF Leuchars, again flying the Tornado F3.

[9] Promoted to group captain in 1999,[12] Bryant served as the Personal Staff Officer to the Deputy Supreme Commander at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe before being appointed Commander of British Forces in Oman;[9] he was awarded a Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service in 2002.

[20] Prime Minister David Cameron responded by telling the defence chiefs to stop criticising Libya mission.