Australian Defence Magazine Podcast

In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Nick Ross, Head of Defence for Pexip, about their secure video collaboration software platform.We begin our discussion by exploring Pexip’s background specializing in video collaboration software for interoperability and security and its mission to provide communication tools irrespective of technology or security level. The conversation then delves into Pexip's focus on connecting diverse platforms and supporting self-hosted secure deployment. We learn about its partnerships with Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Nvidia to deliver AI features like language translation in meetings, and emphasize the importance of controlling data within firewalls in a defence context.We wrap up by discussing future plans: expanding into tactical environments, leveraging new satellite connectivity with Project Kuiper, and enabling secure collaboration across the defense supply chain.Links:Pexip Secure Video Communicationswww.pexip.com------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

This episode collects a number of interviews recorded at the Indo Pacific 2025 event held in Sydney at the start of November. Starting with Grant McHerron and Max Blenkin talking with Marcus Hellyer, Strategic Advisor at C2 Robotics, to explore the company's guiding philosophy of generating mass affordably using autonomous systems. We delve into C2 Robotics' heritage in electro-optical sensors and machine learning for navigation within GPS-denied environments, and the development of their Large Uncrewed Underwater Vessel, Speartooth, We wrap up by reviewing the company's initial export success and participation in the Royal Australian Navy's Autonomous Warrior trials, and emphasizing the need for diverse systems across different missions and price points.=—-=Next up, Grant speaks with Phil Guy, Managing Director at Mellori Solutions, Christo Swanepoel, Structural Engineer and Michael Ashelford, Project Manager at Global Defence Solutions, and Jacob Hobbs, Systems Engineer and Adel Swanepoel, Testing and Technology Manager (NSW) at Mellori Solutions. We discuss their recent announcement of Blue Jay Horizon, a test and assurance system for electromagnetic sensors installed on helicopters, naval vessels, and land-based platforms. Built in regional NSW, the system’s target markets are the Australian and New Zealand Defence Forces, as well as export markets including the UK, Europe, and the US. We wrap up by assessing the immense technological challenge involved in miniaturising powerful electronics for naval deployment, requiring innovative solutions for heat management, power conditioning, and operator interfaces.=—-=We then move to Fortinet's stand where we talk to Nicole Henry, Head of Government Affairs for Australia and New Zealand, and Istvan Takacs, Enterprise Solutions Architect, about cybersecurity's importance to national productivity, the risk that post-quantum cryptography poses, and how Fortinet has introduced quantum-safe features in its operating system. We wrap up by discussing ASD requirements and NIST standards for implementing post-quantum cryptographic systems to help assure security into the future.=—-=Grant was able to catch up with Mike Hanlin, Senior Director of International Strategy & Business Development at Shield AI, to talk about its mission to protect service members and civilians using intelligent systems. Our discussion examines V-BAT, their low-cost, long-range VTOL aircraft designed for search and strike missions in contested environments, highlighting its successes in Ukraine. We then turn to X-BAT, the world's first AI-piloted fighter jet leveraging proven GE F110 engines, advanced autonomy, and vertical landing capability. We wrap up by assessing Shield AI's role in the Indo-Pacific market, including Australia as a hub for expansion and strategic investments to address long logistics chains and enhance naval operations with their innovative autonomous solutions.Links:C2 Robotics' Speatooth LUUVc2robotics.com.au/products/speartoothMellori Solutions' Blue Jay Horizonmellori.com.au/products/blue-jay-horizonFortinetwww.fortinet.comShield AIshield.ai------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If...

This episode collects a number of interviews recorded at the Indo Pacific 2025 event held in Sydney at the start of November. Starting with William Egan, Senior Vice President - Sales & Marketing at Teledyne Marine, covering the company's water gliders, which are designed for long duration deep ocean travel, as per their Sentinel Mission circumnavigating the world. We then assess their modular design that allows changing sensor packs for various missions like surveying and surveillance, and review the importance of seabed mapping and projects such as Seabed 2030, which highlights how these technologies enable discovery of new marine species and support safe submarine operations with forward-looking sonars.=—-=Next up are John Eva, Senior Director - Sales & BD Asia Pacific, and Nathan Grove, Director APAC BD & Sales, both with Teledyne FLIR Defense. Our discussion reviews the company's advancements in forward-looking infrared technology for various platforms, including drones and vessels. We explore how AI enhances sensor feeds for threat detection and classification, reducing cognitive load on operators while improving situational awareness across different missions.We wrap up by assessing their ecosystem approach of partnering with competitors under open system architecture to support integration efforts globally. The discussion highlights strong market opportunities in Australia and the Asia Pacific region, including Southeast Asia due to ongoing conflicts, and emphasizes their role in AUKUS partnerships for interoperability.=—-=We then get an update from John Fry, Managing Director of Kongsberg Defence Australia. Our discussion explores Kongsberg Defence Australia's current activities surrounding the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) and Joint Strike Missile programs. We discuss the recent Australian-made certification for NSM launchers, along with progress on the new missile fabrication environment under construction at Newcastle airport, highlighting its complexity compared to a warehouse and its forecast for local build of NSM and JSM commencing in early 2027. We wrap up by assessing the recent successful test firing of StikeMaster in Norway using a Bushmaster platform to launch an NSM blast test vehicle, and potential export opportunities for missiles made in Australia.=—-=On the Leidos stand we receive an update from Vice Admiral (Rt’d) Frank Pandolfe, Vice President and Strategic Account Executive for the Navy and Marine Corps, and Kevin “Q” Quarderer, Director Science and Technology. Our discussion explores Leidos' approach to autonomous systems in the maritime environment, including their long-term work with unmanned vessels like Seahawk and Seahunter for the Navy and partners. We then assess how they are developing a common operating architecture for different vessel scales, emphasizing modular open systems for plug-and-play capabilities, before reviewing lessons learned on training humans to use and maintain these technologies effectively, and the deterrence effect of autonomous systems from operational insights in Ukraine where low-cost unmanned platforms complicate adversary decision-making.=—-=Wrapping up the episode is Sam Vye, CEO & Founder of SYOS Aerospace regarding the company's range of autonomous unmanned vehicles covering the air, land, sea, and subsurface domains, which focus on providing industry leading capability at an affordable price point. We explore its modular software approach, the strategic partnership with Starboard Maritime Intelligence, and expansion into Australia with a focus on providing long term capability development. Link:Sentinel Mission: Redwing Glider Launches Historic Global Ocean Expeditionwww.teledynemarine.com/sentinelmissionTeledyne FLIR...

In this News Review episode, Grant McHerron, Ewen Levick, Nigel Pittaway and Kirra Davey review and discuss some of the news of interest that's occurred recently in the world of Defence.We start with a look back at Indo-Pacific 2025 event to discuss what stood out for us now that we've had some time to recover and return to regular tasks. From there we move on to discuss the recent news about DroneShield's directors selling shares (lots of that info in the news feeds) and how the counter-UAS domain requires continuous innovation as systems evolve to beat the non-kinetic systems used to detect and defeat them.This leads on to a discussion about the difficulty governments and defence forces have globally when trying to buy into new technologies given the rapid pace of change, especially in the unmanned systems domain. Cultural and procurement changes are vital but there's also the difficulty in fielding some capabilities such as long-range strike. We note that Australia's industry can, indeed, support building more capability in-country, as evidenced by South Korea and France, and note that the Australian government's purchase of CEA represents a good example of identifying a critical technology and investing in it once it has demonstrated its capability.We wrap with a reminder that our December/January issue will be released soon with the Top 40 and plenty of other content.Links:ADM's Indo-Pacific 2025 Coveragewww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/the-first-day-of-indo-pacific-2025www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/day-two-of-indo-pacific-2025www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/day-three-of-indo-pacific-2025------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Andrew Chapman, Director - Aerospace, and Christopher "Planko" Plain, Business Development & Strategy Manager, at BAE Systems Australia about sustaining the RAAF's F-35 and Hawk aircraft along with supplying Aviation Technical Training in Wagga Wagga.We begin our discussion by reviewing BAE System’s current expansion of facilities to support the F-35,  how Andrew and Christopher’s careers prepared them for their roles, and the modernisation of the Hawks so they can be utilised to train pilots for the F-35. We get an insight into the evolution of the training program, the current methods and equipment being utilised to improve training, and assess the balance between live and synthetic training. Our discussion gives us an insight into how training is continuously improved, the preparation for future technologies such as UAV’s, and the changes seen by pilots in the cockpit.We wrap up with an overview of the Aviation Technical Training Academy and how it is preparing defence personnel to undertake aircraft maintenance and support across the Australian Defence Force.Links:BAE Systems Australiawww.baesystems.com/en-ausBAE Systems Australia's Aviation Serviceswww.baesystems.com/en-aus/what-we-do/airThis episode has been sponsored by BAE Systems.------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

In this episode, Grant McHerron, Ewen Levick, Nigel Pittaway and Kirra Davey provide their overview of the themes they've observed across the IndoPac 2025 event.There have been many noteworthy announcements but we do acknowledge the implications of the combat system partnership between BAE Systems, Raytheon Australia, General Dynamics Mission Systems and Thales. There's also the local manufacture of foreign systems to provide an additional source for global markets while also increasing Australia's ability to manufacture items when supply lines are delayed or blocked.Another major item is New Zealand's ANZAC class Frigate replacement which is in its early stages and may be delayed if New Zealand wants to maximise its investment on the recent ship capability upgrade that has been rolled out. There's also the potential for TKMS to deliver new MEKO A200 ships, via their Renner Group partners, to the German Navy as an interim capability, which could see the first of those ships arriving before Australia receives its first Mogami.As many companies are now moving to sustainment instead of acquisition, there's also plenty of opportunities for SMEs with innovative solutions while autonomy is now a standard component of any vehicle design, we just need Defence to start introducing them into service. Meanwhile issues with supply chains are being resolved and GWEO is getting into gear.We wrap with a discussion of the second Women's Walk held on Day 3 of IndoPac25, the observation that anyone with a defence.gov.au email address needs to get in contact with the Defence Library for help with transitioning to the new internal mailing system, and a reminder that the ADM Sustainment Summit is going to be in Canberra towards the end of the month.Links:Day Three of Indo-Pacific 2025www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/day-three-of-indo-pacific-2025Women in Defence Networkadmwomenindefencenetwork.com.auADM Sustainment Summitadmevents.com.au/adm-sustainment-summit------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

In this episode, Grant McHerron, Ewen Levick, Nigel Pittaway, Kirra Davey and Julian Kerr provide their overview of the IndoPac 2025 Day 2 event, where the number of people attending certainly seemed to be much higher than on Day 1, making it even trickier to get around the displays.There were plenty of announcements across the day but the big news was that BAE Systems, Raytheon Australia, General Dynamics Mission Systems and Thales announced the establishment of an AUKUS Collaborative Team to develop a combat system for SSN-AUKUS based on General Dynamics existing AN/BYG-1 system. Julian's attention was caught by Sentinel Boats' large sea boat on display but also learning that one of their craft will be sent to Special Forces next week for evaluation.Kirra spent the day with the WIDN Women's Walk as the group toured the floor helping those new to defence to learn and network. There is another walk organised for a second group tomorrow at IndoPac Day 3.Other topics being raised at the event include the potential vessel to replace the Royal New Zealand Navy's ANZAC Frigate replacement, the implications for Australian industry and ship sustainment from South Korea's nuclear submarine plans, and the future of the Henderson precinct, including the potential for the Commonwealth to take over the entire site. Meanwhile, BAE Systems have a model of their Type 83 concept vessel which is being proposed as a replacement for the UK Navy's Type 45 and Australia's Air Warfare Destroyers.Links:Day Two of Indo-Pacific 2025www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/day-two-of-indo-pacific-2025Four primes propose combat system for SSN-AUKUSwww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/four-primes-propose-combat-system-for-ssn-aukusWomen in Defence Networkadmwomenindefencenetwork.com.au------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

In this episode, Grant McHerron, Ewen Levick, Nigel Pittaway and Kirra Davey provide their overview of the IndoPac 2025 Day 1 event, with Associate Producer Kylie Leonard joining us as well.There's been plenty of news, lots of good conversations, and many steps logged here at Day One of IndoPac 2025 but no major or exciting announcements. There's been good news for PMB Defence along with Ocius, plus Hunter class frigate updates and plenty of optional crewed and/or fully autonomous vessels. There's a large Japanese presence, many Korean representatives, and a general indication from many Australian companies that they're finding more success from overseas markets.We also get an update from Kylie on the very successful Women in Defence Network breakfast event held this morning that was at capacity with a waitlist of others hoping to attend. There will also be two guided walks happening on Days Two and Three of the event so keep an eye out for them if you're on-site.You can see all the news from Day One at the link below but for now it's time to recharge and be ready for Day Two. Links:The first day of Indo-Pacific 2025www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/the-first-day-of-indo-pacific-2025Women in Defence Networkadmwomenindefencenetwork.com.au------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Mark Nunn, Strategic Projects Development Lead at Vocus, and Dr Matthew Ilic, National Solutions Specialist – Defence at Vocus, regarding how telecommunications underpins humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, as well as stability operations across the Indo-Pacific.We begin our discussion by reviewing Mark and Matthew’s experiences tackling communications challenges, the types of failures that can occur during operations, and how a lack of connectivity can shape government decisions. We also explore how today’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) mobile networks have improved response times, the connectivity differences between Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and Stability and Support Operations (SASO), and the delays experienced in delivering modern technology to the field. We wrap up by getting an insight into the benefits that modern technologies would have brought to missions that Mark and Matthew have previously been involved with.Links:Vocus Satellite Comms: www.vocus.com.au/enterprise/connectivity/satellite-services------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Steve Roughsedge, Toll Group’s Senior Vice President of Theatre Supply Chain at Toll Group, about the Defence Theatre Logistics contract they’ve been awarded by the ADF.We begin our discussion by getting an overview of Toll Group as a logistics provider, Steve’s career to date, how Toll Group is involved with the Defence Theatre Logistics Contract, and their current involvement in Australia with capabilities to extend internationally. We review how its extensive background in working with Defence has assisted in winning the contract, how the commercial logistics network provides improved resilience to military logistics particularly in the Indo-Pacific, and how it has continued to meet the Defence clearance requirements. We wrap up by seeing how Toll Group is looking to expand its capabilities as a 3rd party logistics contractor to international parties. Links:Toll Groupwww.tollgroup.com------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

In this News Review episode, Grant McHerron, Nigel Pittaway and Kirra Davey review and discuss some of the news of interest that's occurred recently in the world of Defence.We open the episode by discussing the recent news from the meeting between Donald Trump and Anthony Albanese where AUKUS was not cancelled but the focus seemed to be on the critical minerals deal and the significant investment in the US market to come from Australian super funds. The works at HMAS Sterling and the ambiguity remaining in the agreement were touched on along with Minister Conroy's upbeat views, his reference to the sovereignty of any Virginia subs we may obtain, and the recent acknowledgement by our government that the future disposal of nuclear reactors had not yet been costed.After AUKUS we note that Kongsberg and Thales have test fired a missile booster from a Bushmaster vehicle in Norway, demonstrating that the StrikeMaster concept is functional and supporting its consideration for Army's Land 8113 Phase 2 Land Based Maritime Strike program. Currently up against HIMARS and PrSM Increment 2, there's a chance that the ADF could select both platforms which would be quite the development.We return to the US to note that GA-ASI has been selected to produce the conceptual design for the US Navy's Collaborative Combat Aircraft. It's getting very crowded in the CCA market with Boeing's MQ-28A Ghost Bat, the GA-ASI and Anduril products, a Korean product and even one from Turkey. This will be a very interesting space to watch going forwards.We wrap with news from ADM's Women In Defence Awards evening, the upcoming ADM 30 Under 30 Awards, our presence at Indo-Pac next week, and the two ADM Women in Defence Network Women's Walks that will occur at the event. We're looking forward to seeing you at Indo-Pac so please do come and say hello.Links:AUKUS deal through to the next roundwww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/aukus-deal-through-to-the-next-roundKongsberg and Thales fire Naval Strike Missilewww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/kongsberg-and-thales-fire-naval-strike-missileGA-ASI to design CCA for US Navyhttps://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/ga-asi-to-design-cca-for-us-navyADM Women in Defence Awardsadmwomenindefenceawards.com.auADM 30 Under 30 Awardsadm30u30awards.com.auADM Women In Defence Network - Women's Walk at Indo-Pac 2025admwomenindefencenetwork.com.au/event/adm-womens-walk-indopac2025------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest...

In this News Review episode, Grant McHerron, Ewen Levick, Nigel Pittaway and Kirra Davey review and discuss some of the news of interest that's occurred recently in the world of Defence.We start with a review of the International Astronomical Congress that Kirra attended during the week, including Australia signing agreements with the USA and seeking to get more engagement with the European Space Agency. It was noted that if Australia is in Eurovision, perhaps being in the ESA isn't such a stretch, especially given the launch sites Australia has to offer for both equatorial and polar orbits.We then move on to notification that Australia has requested approval from the USA to potentially purcase another 48 HIMARS vehicles in addition to those we have already order. This is likely to ensure that, if Lockheed Martin and HIMARS are selected for Land 8113 Phase 2 (Land Based Maritime Strike) there won't be any concerns from the USA. The other contender for Phase 2 is Thales Australia with Kongsberg Defence Australia with their StrikeMaster offering (a Bushmaster with Naval Strike Missile launchers). We also discuss how the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) offers improved targeting in GPS denied and contested areas once Increment 2 becomes available, plus how HIMARS plus PrSM could help provide Australia with control over shipping in the straits to our North.Next up is a discussion of the pending AUKUS Review from the USA along with the many sources saying that the Virginia submarines for Australia could be delayed (or even cancelled), how more money may be requested from Australia, or that maybe SSN AUKUS gets an accelerated timeline. We also note that AUKUS is currently more favoured towards the US & UK given the US$3bn we're sending each of them, plus the infrastructure development we're establishing to support Submarine Rotational Force - West. Will our US$3bn payments count towards the 3.5% of GDP target?We wrap by noting that the Women in Defence Awards night is approaching and that submissions for the 30 Under 30 awards have closed. There's lots going on and plenty to keep us busy with bringing you the important news in Defence and industry.Links:Australia and US sign aeronautical agreementwww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/australia-and-us-sign-aeronautical-agreement Astroscale seeks Australian footholdwww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/astroscale-seeks-australian-foothold Australian space institute launches at IAC 2025www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/australian-space-institute-launches-at-iac-2025 Australia buys M142 HIMARS (GWEO starting to walk faster?)www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/australia-buys-m142-himarsADM Women in Defence Awardsadmwomenindefenceawards.com.auADM 30 Under 30 Awardsadm30u30awards.com.au------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department...

In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with two people from KBR's Australia Defence and Security Solutions group: Christine Gillon, Director of People and Culture, and Ben Kelly, Senior Director of Sustainment and Integration. We discuss KBR’s growth in Australia and their role providing Defence with sustainment and engineering solutions.We begin our discussion by getting an overview of Christine and Ben’s career to date and KBR’s decades of experience in delivering science, technology, and engineering solutions to governments and companies around the world. Our conversation explores the key areas of focus for KBR in Australia particularly around sustainment and sovereign capability, and the roles and careers available at KBR and the range of benefits that they bring.We wrap up by getting an insight into how you can progress your career with KBR.Links:Careers at KBRhttps://careers.kbr.com/us/en ------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with James Heading, the Director and General Manager for Missiles and Fire Control at Lockheed Martin Australia, and Wayne Harrison who is responsible for International Business Development at the Missiles and Fire Control team at Lockheed Martin, We'll be talking about the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) and HIMARS.We begin our conversation by getting a background of James' and Wayne’s careers to date, then get an introduction to the HIMARS and PrSM systems and assess the improved capabilities they are bringing to Army. Our discussion goes on to explore the global significance of the successful Talisman Sabre PrSM live fire exercise, why Australia has invested heavily into its development, and an insight into the two variations of PrSM. We wrap up by reviewing the opportunities that local manufacturing and testing brings to Australia, and how this system is the best solution for our land-based ground and maritime Strike capabilities. Links:Army adds long range strike capabilitywww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/army-adds-long-range-strike-capabilityTalisman Sabre trials long-range fireswww.australiandefence.com.au/defence/land/talisman-sabre-trials-long-range-fires------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

In this episode, Grant McHerron and Kirra Davey talk with Sophee Clark, Babcock International Group's Australian Production Manager for Marine projects, about her experiences as a 30 Under 30 Award winner and working at Babcock.We begin our conversation by getting an overview of the ADM 30 Under 30 award program, the challenges of recruitment for defence, and the available careers from Babcock. We also get an insight into Sophee’s experience in the industry, her advice for starting a career in Defence, and the achievements she has made since winning the ADM 30 Under 30 award. We wrap up by discussing the importance of these awards, and review the nomination process.Links:ADM 30 Under 30 Awardsadm30u30awards.com.auBabcock Australasiawww.babcock.com.au------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherEditor: Chris VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Air Commodore James Badgery, Director General of the Defence Aviation Safety Authority, about DASA and their engagement with the Australian Space Agency, and space in general.We begin our discussion by getting a general overview of James’ career, how DASA operates, and how Defence has adopted European military regulation structures whilst also working with US platforms. Our conversation also gives us an insight into DASA’s increased involvement in space, the approach the Authority has taken to write and roll out regulations, how DASA engages with the Australian Space Agency, and the importance of the Memorandum of Understanding between both agencies. We also review the evolution of international space agencies as well as the rapid development and changes in technology and regulations.We wrap up by looking ahead for DASA’s involvement with space and how it keeps up with the everchanging technologies, regulations, and requirements.Links:Defence Aviation Safety Authority (DASA)dasa.defence.gov.auAustralian Space Agencywww.space.gov.au Australian Space Agency signs MoU with DASAwww.australiandefence.com.au/defence/cyber-space/australian-space-agency-signs-mou-with-dasa Working together for space safetywww.defence.gov.au/news-events/news/2025-04-03/working-together-space-safety ------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

Grant McHerron talks with David Goodrich OAM, Executive Chairman and CEO of Anduril Australia, about the big news from Wednesday morning regarding Anduril being awarded $1.7bn for the Ghost Shark Program of Record.We start with an overview of the contract, then move on to Ghost Shark's pedigree from the Dive LD and Dive XL AUVs, and how much Australian content there is in Ghost Shark. David talks to us about its majority Australian share which prevents ITAR issues and their engagement with Australian organisations in their supply chain. This leads to a discussion about how their manufacturing plant was funded, its location, their intentions for the USA and UK, plus how Ghost Shark is an example of AUKUS Pillar 2 in action.The discussion moves on to the number of Ghost Sharks that are expected to be delivered over the coming years, usage scenarios for Ghost Shark and its modular payload system, along with its evolution to have more capability, more payloads and longer endurance. We then review the successes they've had with a Dive XL unit being evaluated by the US Navy before wrapping up with a look at the future for manned platforms along side AUVs and David's acknowledgement of the partnership between Navy, DSTG and ASCA which has made this all possible.Links:Anduril wins Ghost Shark contractwww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/anduril-wins-ghost-shark-contract------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

In this News Review episode, Grant McHerron, Ewen Levick and Kirra Davey review and discuss some of the news of interest that's occurred recently in the world of Defence.We start with a look at Land 156 with plenty of releases lately, including the announcement that the EOS Slinger cannon will be included and that Leidos has been selected as the system integrator. There's also been news of expanded UAS and Counter UAS systems as the government wants to show they're spending on Defence industry now, not just in the future. We also discuss the need for C-UAS layers covering EW, kinetic, high energy and so on, plus the cost of kill vs the cost of the drones themselves.Next up is the news that Norway is purchasing BAE's Type 26 Frigate which is the basis for our Hunter class and has also been selected by the Canadians. We note that this demonstrates the cooperation between the UK and Norway but also ponder whether BAE has the capacity to deliver the first vessel by 2030, although perhaps being kept the same as the UK's vessels will help.This naturally leads to a discussion about Hunter, mainstream media references to it being a "troubled" program, and how more engagement with media would help. There's also a quick chat about who gets to name the new ships.We wrap with the news that the keel of the sixth and final Offshore Patrol Vessel has been laid, along with the observation that there's a lot of maritime news lately and thoughts regarding the pending IIP update.Links:Leidos selected as Land 156 systems integratorwww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/leidos-selected-as-land-156-systems-integratorDefence expands UAS and CUAS capabilitieswww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/defence-expands-uas-and-cuas-capabilitiesNorway selects Type 26 frigatewww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/norway-selects-type-26-frigateDefence lays keel for Offshore Patrol Vesselwww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/defence-lays-keel-for-offshore-patrol-vessel------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronEditor: Chris VisscherProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025

In this News Review episode, Grant McHerron and Kirra Davey review and discuss some of the recent news of interest that's occurred recently in the world of Defence.We open the episode with Kirra's comments on the Hunter Defence Conference that she attended, including reference to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries being present, which leads to a discussion on Mogami, MHI's capabilities, and observations that there's still a way to go before the contract is signed. We also consider Minister Controy's recent speech to the QLD Media Club which, among other topics, noted that Land 156 will be "both a benchmark and a blueprint for how we will deliver speed to capability in the future," and also that these systems could be deployed to assist civil society while referencing the Brisbane Olympics in 2032.The subsequent topics include Lockheed Martin Australia signing a contract with Avalon Airport to store GMLRs jigs and other components at the airport until their manufacturing site is ready to use them, plus Kongsberg have won another contract to export their NSM launchers and control consoles, all of which are made entirely within Australia with no foreign parts or companies involved. We then move on to discuss South Korea wanting to further engage with Australia for both training and for launching satellites, which could lead to Australia gaining access to more innovative technologies while also being a boon for ADM's next Australia-Korea Defence Congress.We wrap the episode with a reminder that ADM's 30 Under 30 Awards have opened for 2025 and Kirra's recent interview with previous award winner, Nasstassja Regan.Links:Hunter Defence Conference 2025www.hunterdefence.org.au/hdc2025ADM Eyes on Asia - August 13th - Japan reacts to MHI's Mogami winning Sea 3000www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/adm-eyes-on-asia-13-august-2025Minister Conroy's address to the QLD Media Clubwww.minister.defence.gov.au/speeches/2025-08-19/address-queensland-media-club-delivering-australias-defence-capabilityLockheed Martin Australia signs agreement with Avalon Airportwww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/lockheed-martin-australia-signs-agreement-with-avalon-airportKongsberg Defence Australia secures missile launcher dealwww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/kongsberg-defence-australia-secures-missile-launcher-dealSouth Korea seeks closer tieswww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/south-korea-seeks-closer-tiesADM 30 Under 30 Awardsadm30u30awards.com.auWhy enter ADM's 30 Under 30 Awards?www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/why-enter-adm-30-under-30------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title...

In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Phil Guy, Managing Director of Alkath and Darrel Madden Manager for Testing and Training at Mellori Solutions QLD, regarding updates in the world of electronic warfare over the past year.We begin our discussion by getting an overview of Darrel’s career and time in the army, then review the major lessons learned from Ukraine and the Middle East, particularly around the rapid development and delivery life cycles, and evaluating tradeshow presentations against the reality of the battlefield. We also explore the difficulties of testing EM Spectrum weapons that are considered to ‘break’ exercises, how training can be improved to better address EW technologies, and how security classifications and legacy systems have restricted the training of AI. We wrap up by getting an insight into their Blue Jay Mobile test and emitter system, and how it has been received in the market following its launch in November 2024.Links:Alkathalkath.groupMellori Solutions' Blue Jaymellori.com.au/?products=blue-jayMellori Solutions launches portable radiofrequency testing systemwww.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/mellori-solutions-launches-portable-radiofrequency-testing-system------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherEditor: Chris VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2025