Offshore manufacturing, defence procurement and industrial resilience, with Philippe Odouard and David McLaughlin

How can Australia strengthen sovereign industrial capability while building a sustainable and globally competitive defence manufacturing sector? In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by Philippe Odouard, former CEO of XTEK (now HighCom) and Quickstep, alongside David McLaughlin, co-founder and chief technology officer of 3D scanning technology company Bodd. Odouard brings extensive experience across Australian and international defence manufacturing, including leadership roles in aerospace, body armour production and major defence capability programs. McLaughlin brings experience in innovative advanced body scanning, equipment fitting and human performance data systems with applications across defence and commercial sectors. The podcast conversation includes the following topics: Industry perspectives on the National Defence Strategy 2026 and whether sovereign capability ambitions are being matched by procurement reform. Lessons from Australian defence industry success stories, such as F-35 supply chain participation, protected mobility vehicles and guided weapons manufacturing. The commercial realities behind onshore versus offshore manufacturing decisions and why Australian companies expand into international markets. How dual-use technologies are helping defence SMEs survive long procurement cycles and diversify revenue streams. Debate surrounding local content requirements, sovereign industrial policy and government willingness to support emerging capability. Strategies for Australian companies seeking entry into US and allied defence supply chains. Finally, the discussion wraps up by examining what policymakers can do immediately to support innovation, strengthen industrial resilience and ensure Australian defence capability is translated into long-term sovereign outcomes. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team