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In our latest Global Outlook, we revisit the bond market, look at the aftermath of Xi's visit to Washington, consider the implications of the war in Ethiopia's Tigray region, and what the US deal on Greenland could mean for Australia's Antarctic holdings. Yields increasing on the US bond markets increases cost of their borrowing which makes it hard to spend as much as they want on their military and other discretionary spending. As has been seen many times, the bond markets have the power to make leaders hesitate and, in some cases, to end their careers. Following Xi Jinping's visit to Washington it seems that there was a lot of pomp and pagentry for no significant outcomes aside from further delaying decisions. The Horn of Africa is once again in the news as a civil war within Ethiopia's Tigray province which is introducing problems on the Western side of the Red Sea. Further compounding the issue is their need to route shipping via Djbouti as the formation of Eritrea removed Ethiopia's access to the ocean. Ethiopia also claims Egypt and Sudan are funding the rebels along with Eritrea. It gets even more complicated when you consider that all of the main forces in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel and more have stakes in this region along with many other countries. This is a very complicated situation that's only getting worse. Finally, we look at the USA's recent agreement with Greenland that doesn't get them anything more than they already had aside from a veto of other foreign powers building in Greenland, which Denmark had been blocking anyhow. This approach by the USA to block foreign powers from building there has implications for Antarctica where China is building yet another research base. It is not inconceivable that the USA could pressure Australia to remove China's bases, some of which are on areas of Antarctica claimed by Australia. ------------------ 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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

Ewen Levick and Nigel Pittaway discuss program Land 8710 which is covering the build of Medium and Heavy Landing Craft plus an amphibious vehicle. We start with an overview of the two classes of landing craft vessels, the small amphibious vehicle, and the programs indicated time frames, covering how the two landing craft compliment each other in their operational use cases given areas they're intended to work in and ranges they can cover. Next we look at Army's structure changes as documented in the 2024 and 2026 National Defence Strategy documents, changes that started as far back as 2023. These cover four major areas including Command & Control, emerging concepts, required capabilities, and the culture of Army itself, while also standing up three littoral manoeuvre units in Darwin, Townsville and Brisbane. The discussion moves onto the difference between amphibious operations and littoral operations, while also considering the changes in Army which includes long range strike to support the littoral units. This will mean HiMARS and PrSM, NASAMS for Short Range Air Defence, and the as yet undecided Medium Range Air Defence capability. The latter is under Land 6504 and has been in & out of scope for some years now, despite medium range being just as important as short range in a layered air defence model. Meanwhile, Land 156 is likely to be involved for its Counter Uncrewed Aerial Systems capabilities. We wrap up with a discussion of Army Innovation Day which is happening with Chief of Army Day at Land Forces 2026 and will be focused on the littoral environment. This leads to Army's recent training soldiers in seacraft with Navy, changes in Army's involvement with Talisman Sabre 2027, and the observation that once the transition is completed, Army will be one of the largest littoral forces in the Western world. Links: Building an amphibious Army https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/building-an-amphibious-army Birdon signs major Land 8710 contract https://www.australiandefence.com.au/defence/land/birdon-signs-major-land-8710-contract Army LCM fleet to use Kongsberg Kamewa waterjets https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/army-lcm-fleet-to-use-kongsberg-kamewa-waterjets ------------------ 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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Sean MacKirdy, Elastic's Area VP of National Security, about the rapid extraction of intelligence from oceans of information. We begin our discussion by exploring Elastic’s role in powering everyday technologies like Uber and Netflix and delve into Sean MacKirdy's career journey from Silicon Graphics and Cisco to Elastic. We get an insight into Elastic’s search capabilities for rapid intelligence extraction and how it uses AI to process diverse data sources. This leads to a discussion on navigating secured storage environments, including air-gapped systems, and ensuring critical information can be accessed securely while maintaining a common operating picture across networks. Our discussion addresses the vital topic of preventing AI from causing data spills when accessing multi-classified information, and the importance of maintaining human involvement in decision making despite AI's speed advantages. We wrap up by reinforcing the importance of clear accountability mechanisms and ensuring responsible implementation when deploying AI in critical sectors. Links: Elastic https://www.elastic.co/ ------------------ 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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Editor: Chris Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

This is another of our Global Outlook series where we discuss the latest global geopolitical developments that we're keeping an eye on. We start with the developing story of RAAF F-35 parts being shipped to USA for servicing being diverted to Hong Kong and winding up in Chinese hands, including a canopy which could provide China with classified information. We also look at Xi Jinping's visit to the USA for a summit with President Trump, including whether trade will be impacted, the US$14bn arms sale to Taiwan that Trump is delaying, and the continuing mutual deterrence that is providing some form of strategic stability. Xi Jinping is in the USA to meet with Trump. Will the supply of rare earths continue as per South Korean agreement? Multual deterrance giving some strategic stability. Will the US continue with the $14bn arms sale to Taiwan or use it as a bargaining chip? We wrap with a look at recent Russian manoeuvring near Estonia and the potential for the border township of Narva to become a point where Russia tests a weakened NATO's resolve over Article 5. Infiltrating Russian special forces into a Russian speaking town on the border to then act as separatists seeking independence is a move from Russia's playbook that we've seen occur in Crimea and in Ukraine. Links: Classified Australian F-35 parts disappear in Hong Kong https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/classified-australian-f-35-parts-disappear-in-hong-kong F-35 freight provider partnered with blacklisted Chinese company https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/f-35-freight-provider-partnered-with-blacklisted-chinese-company What China Wants from the Washington Summit https://www.sinification.org/p/what-china-wants-from-the-washington What a Limited Russian Incursion Into Estonia Might Look Like: A Narva Scenario https://understandingwar.org/research/defense-of-europe/what-a-limited-russian-incursion-into-estonia-might-look-like-a-narva-scenario/ ------------------ 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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

In this News Review episode, Grant McHerron, Ewen Levick, Nigel Pittaway and Kirra Davey discuss a few recent news items of interest. We open with the news that DroneShield are working with AIM Defence to include their Fractl laser based C-UAS product in DroneShield's ecosystem of detectors, jammers and C2 products. We also note their DroneSentry-X Mk2 product is being used in the USA. The discussion then moves on to news relating to AUKUS, including the US GAO's report showing that, to the end of 2025, US nuclear submarines had a very large number of "inactive" days across the fleet, either waiting for maintenance or waiting to be decommissioned, during which time they were required to be crewed while tied up at a pier. On further AUKUS news, we also look at the UK government delaying their purchase of new attack submarines plus the indication that design work is only half way completed, which tends to cast doubt on a previous statement a few years ago from our Navy that the design was 70% complete. We also discuss a UK report on issues with production of the nuclear reactors required for the Dreadnaught and SSN AUKUS submarines, which could further delay SSN AUKUS production for Australia. Both the US and UK reports highlight the need for government watchdogs to be able to publically identify issues and hold governments and militaries to task about their ability to deliver on major projects. We wrap with feedback from our previous News Review episode which confirmed that the StrikeMaster vehicle used in the NATO exercise had a right hand drive configuration. Links: DroneShield: https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/droneshield-expands-open-counter-drone-architecture https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/us-accepts-droneshield-dronesentry-x-mk2-on-isvs AUKUS https://news.usni.org/2026/09/01/gao-report-on-attack-submarine-maintenance-challenges https://www.telegraph.co.uk/politics/2026/09/12/labour-delays-buying-new-attack-submarines/ ------------------ 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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

This is another of our Global Outlook series where we discuss the latest global geopolitical developments that we're keeping an eye on. We start by quickly noting that Canada is seeking to become an associate member of the EU in order to balance against threats from the United States, while there are rumours of Xi Jinping's possible health issues which, true or not, highlight the impacts to China's leadership if he should pass without an heir. A situation which would also apply to Russia should Putin's health give out. Moving on we look at Kevin Rudd's recent speach at the Australian Institute of International Affairs where he highlighted the size of our coastline and our dependence on trade to justify the need for a World Class Navy and nuclear attack submarines. While we do not disagree about the need for a world class navy, we note our concerns at the number of maritime and joint capabilities that have been cancelled or reduced in order to fund AUKUS. The list is long and that's not even including purely Army or Air Force capabilities. We also note that Canada has a longer coastline than Australia and they have purchased advanced diesel electric submarines from TKMS, not nuclear boats. We also note that if we want to protect trade, our largest trade partner is China, but we are justifying AUKUS as defence against China. Our concern is that we will not have a world class Navy if we keep defunding new and updated capabilities while not funding sustainment to the levels our current Navy requires. Next up is, of course, the Houthis taking control of Western Yemen and being in the perfect position to deny Saudi vessels access to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. We note that the Saudi's lack of embedded officers with the Yemenis to coordinate strikes from long range fires or aircraft meant that there were no airstrikes on the Houthis. We also discuss the USA declining to support the Saudis and that Iran now has some level of control over two critical oil routes. From there we look at Stephen Miller's claims that rule of power and might is now the way of the world, as it previous has been, ignoring the evidence that demonstrates the fallacy of this argument: Iran hasn't capitulated and Greenland hasn't been invaded. If anything this reinforces the power of the bond market and how the USA remains tied to NATO as the USA's senior leadership becomes an echo chamber following the loss of so many experienced staff from the State Department and Department of Defence. We wrap by returning to nuclear attack submarines and note that, while they are incredible and powerful elements of a world class navy, they are not the solution to everything. A balanced force is required for a world class Navy and Australia is not committing the funds required to ensure it has one. Links: Utopia clip regarding boosting defence to protect our trade with China from China https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgspkxfkS4k Stephen Miller Says ‘Nobody’s Going To Fight’ US Over Greenland https://www.newsweek.com/stephen-miller-says-no-one-will-fight-us-over-greenland-11312514 ------------------ 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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

This is the first of our new Global Outlook series where we discuss the latest global geopolitical developments that we're keeping an eye on. We start with the situation between the UK, Argentina and the USA over the contentious issue of the Falkland Islands where oil reserves have been discovered. While Argentina's capabilities have reduced and the UK has increased its protection of the islands, Argentina continues to claim the islands and the USA is willing to use this dispute against its own ally. If they're willing to do this against the UK, along with their approach to Canada, clearly they would do the same to Australia if they wanted to claim their bases in Australia as sovereign US territory. We then move onto the one thing in the world that could change the Trump administration's course and that's the global bond market, which has toppled a UK Prime Minister and already made the administration blink early in their current tenure. After this, we turn to the Middle East where Israel and Turkey are starting to posture and position against each other, which is also impacting Greece which has improved relationships with Israel. As this develops, all eyes will be on the USA to see how they react if the situation between three of their allies deteriorates significantly. ------------------ 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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

In this News Review episode, Grant McHerron, Nigel Pittaway and Kirra Davey discuss a few recent news items of interest. We start with the news that Defence Minister Marles has met with the US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to discuss increasing US military presence in Australia, with more details expected after the next AUSMIN meetings expected before the end of 2026. The discussion moves on to the news that the StrikeMaster has been involved in NATO exercises in Europe, with Kongsberg and Thales referring to the capability as ready to go now, thanks to the NSM and Bushmaster being in production. Meanwhile, the PrSM increment 2 missile with the ability to hit moving targets remains in development. Finally, we look at a former Italian aircraft carrier being donated to Indonesia on the proviso that Indonesia funds any refurbishment it may require. We wrap with a discussion regarding ADM's presence at Land Forces and the WA Defence Summit next month plus note that the next issue of the magazine will be delivered in time for distribution at both events. Links: Kongsberg and Thales StrikeMaster exercises in Europe https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/kongsberg-and-thales-strikemaster-exercises-in-europe Indonesia acquires Italian aircraft carrier https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/indonesia-acquires-italian-aircraft-carrier ------------------ 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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

In this episode we present the audio from ADM's Women In Defence Network and Women in Defence UK webinar held on the 24th of June. The panelists were Kelly Hopkins, Director of Defence at Hays, Natalie Desty, the founder and director of STEM Returners, Hayley Boswell, founder of Defence Kids, and Helen Callis, director of Recruit for Spouses. The moderator was Kathryn Essex, Head of Defence and Security Industry or Australia and New Zealand at the British High Commission in Canberra. The episode commences with an overview of the issue from Kylie Leonard, ADM's Associate Publisher, who also tells us about the Women in Defence Networks coming up during the year. Next up, Kathryn Essex introduces the panelists and opens the session with the first topic, which was to identify one structural change defence organisations could make to help retain spouses and families over the long term. This leads to the next topic which was how organisations can make use of carers returning to the workforce rather than treating them as a risk. Next up we review the work of Defence Kids and the importance of supporting children through their parent's deployments and relocations. This leads to a discussion of how best to position military spouses as part of the future talent pipeline for AUKUS. We wrap up with a series of questions from the audience and also reflecting on each country's unique approach can benefit others through shared knowledge and coordinated efforts. Links: ADM Women in Defence Network https://admwomenindefencenetwork.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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

In this News Review episode, Grant McHerron and Ewen Levick discuss a couple of topical subjects and their implications for Australia. With the Strait of Hormuz becoming a forever war, there's not much new to mention there so we start with a discussion about Donald Trump dramatically scaling back joint military exercises with South Korea and other countries, incuding Australia, due to cost and not wanting to appear hostile to North Korea. Meanwhile, North Korea is sending troops to Russia to help with Ukraine while Russia is sending them their latest military technology, disrupting the balance of power on the Korean peninsula. How does this development align with Australia's views of Korea and peace in the Asian region? We also discuss President Trump's executive order telling the Pentagon to investigate going back to steam catapults for the new Ford class aircraft carriers and to also move the superstructure (aka "The Island") further forward to improve its looks. What implications could this have to the AUKUS program, SSN AUKUS, and US expectations of Australia's supply of funds to the US coffers. Meanwhile, Australia appears to have recognised the need for Ground Based Air Defence systems that has been demonstrated in the Iran conflict. We discuss our current defensive capability against aircraft, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles, then assess progress to date on the various projects to field Medium Range GBAD including 6502 and 6503 being folded into 6500 then defunded. We look at the reasons for the pause in 2024 and how current efforts reflect against those justifications. ------------------ 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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Geoff Knox, Executive Chairman and Group CEO from HighCom Group, and Bede Galvin, the President of HighCom Technology. We begin our discussion by reviewing the roles of Geoff Knox and Bede Galvin and they explain how HighCom Armour, Technology, and Defence work together to support frontline personnel. The conversation then explores their global business operations with both men travelling extensively recently to stay current with technology trends and client needs across the US and Europe, helping them provide timely solutions for defence and first responders. We also examine HighCom's counter-UAS technologies, including their wearable systems, and how drawing on expertise from Ukraine is ensuring their solutions are relevant for defence operations globally. We then discuss HighCom's body armour that developed from their Australian XTEK lightweight, neutrally bouyant, and moldable to better fit a range of body shapes and lighten loads for soldiers carrying protective gear Links: HighCom Group https://highcom.group/ ------------------ 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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Peter Anusas, the General Manager for Empower Advisory AUS/UK, Gary Meaney, Lendlease’s Defence Construction Director, and Scott Olsen, the Chief Executive Officer of Fredon Group. The topic for the episode is building Australia's defence future with a focus on AUKUS. We begin our discussion by exploring the foundations required for AUKUS success, including political alignment and workforce training needs. The guests then delve into the challenges surrounding security clearances and ensuring Australia has the skilled personnel to sustain nuclear submarines. They also discuss the importance of early prime contractor involvement (ECI) in streamlining processes and fostering collaboration. Furthermore, they assess how Australia can develop sovereign capability without relying on continual foreign involvement, highlighting the need for efficient procurement models and strengthening local industry capacity. Finally, we consider the long-term legacy of AUKUS, focusing on creating sustainable defence jobs within Australia. The episode concludes by reinforcing that government and industry must prioritize these tasks to ensure a successful outcome. Links: Empower Advisory powered by BMD https://www.empowergroup.global/advisory and https://www.bmdgroup.global Lendlease Defence and National Security https://www.lendlease.com/construction/defence Fredon Group https://www.fredon.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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

In this episode, Grant McHerron visits BAE Systems Australia (BAESA) at Edinburgh Parks to talk with Ashley Searl, Director of Strategic Surveillance, and Nathan Herrmann, HF Sensing Program Director, about the Jindalee Operational Radar Network (JORN) and the recently confirmed sale of Over The Horizon Radar (OTHR) technology to Canada. We begin our discussion by reviewing the history of JORN, starting from early experiments in the 1950s with high-frequency signals and progressing to the current three sites in WA, NT and QLD being controlled from RAAF Base Edinburgh. We then cover the current activities on JORN, including its enhancement project and midlife upgrade (Project Air 2025 Phase 6), where BAESA is the prime integrator collaborating closely with the Defence Science and Technology Group. Moving on to the recent sale of JORN to Canada we cover how the sale was established, the changes that will be required to accommodate polar operations, Canada's own research into OTHR systems, and BAESA's involvement in delivering the solution. We also discuss BAESA's exports of high frequency products to the USA along with the importance of export sales to maintaining and recruiting the skilled workforce. We wrap up with an assessment of the future for OTHR sales and opportunities in other areas of the world. Links: BAE Systems’ OTHR and high frequency technology overview https://www.baesystems.com/en/product/over-the-horizon-radar-and-high-frequency-technology BAE Systems' JORN Overview https://www.baesystems.com/en-aus/product/jorn Canada to sign major JORN deal https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/canada-to-sign-major-jorn-deal NOTE: This episode was 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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

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 open with a discussion of the Hormuz Strait being closed once again which leads to the topic of Uncrewed Surface Vessels being used as weapons, indicating a new phase of naval warfare is beginning. This segways into a discussion about Saronic's Corsair USV which is currently being pitched to our Navy. The Corsair has recently been in the news as one was used to rescue the crew of an Apache that had crashed into the water, then a few weeks later a team of Corsairs were used to destroy an Iranian midget submarine that was docked in harbour. Next up is a discussion on Elbridge Colby's recent set of tweets calling the "Middle Powers" strategy a distraction and stating that the USA are "flexible realists." We note that the countries in question are the realists who are reacting to the USA becoming a less reliable ally, discussing the geopolitical situation and the factors that are driving the rise of the middle powers concept. We wrap with a quick look at Exercise Pitch Black 2026 which is starting flight operations with multiple nations bringing aircraft, aircrew and support teams, some of which will be appearing for the first time this year. Links: Saronic pitches Corsair USV to the ADF https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/saronic-pitches-corsair-usv-to-the-adf Elbridge Colby's tweets on the “middle powers” strategy being a distraction https://x.com/USWPColby/status/2077060564900077620 Exercise Pitch Black 2026 to commence flying https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/exercise-pitch-black-2026-to-commence-flying ------------------ 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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026

In this News Review episode, Grant McHerron talks with Frederico Lemos, Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Defence & Security, about the KC-390 Millenium multi-mission airlifter and tanker prior to its appearance at the Farnborough International Airshow. We begin by exploring the KC-390 Millennium's capabilities, including its design for multiple missions such as airlift and aerial refuelling. We then delve into how it can rapidly reconfigure its cargo space between seating, stretchers, or basic cargo configurations, along with the flight management system, load management, and modular multi-mission capabilities. Frederico discusses Embraer's development of a flying boom system alongside existing underwing drogue pods for air-to-air refueling flexibility, and also reviews the aircraft's sales traction in Europe and the Middle East, including interest from the USA and Asia-Pacific regions. We wrap by looking at production rates, the existing global support network and scaling up to address existing and forecast demand. Links: Embraer KC-390 Millenium https://embraer.com/defense-security-air/kc-390-millennium/en/ ADM's articles about the (K)C-390 https://www.australiandefence.com.au/search?q=390 ------------------ 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 [email protected] 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 McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026