Defence & Security Podcast Network

Each and every day, the world is becoming more unpredictable, yet Australia continues with the post-Cold War status quo. As things continue to deteriorate, we're going to have to ask ourselves some particularly confronting questions. Australia and its allies are entering an "age of chaos" in which the assumptions that shaped the post-Cold War order are rapidly breaking down. Rather than dealing with isolated crises that can be managed and resolved individually, governments, militaries, and societies are now confronting overlapping and mutually reinforcing disruptions, including strategic competition, technological upheaval, economic fragmentation, supply chain vulnerability, and the rise of networked authoritarian powers. Central to Australia's response is understanding the distinction between traditional "crisis management" and "chaos management". Crisis management assumes stability will eventually return and institutions can revert to previous norms once a disruption passes. Chaos management, by contrast, accepts that instability, uncertainty, and persistent competition are now enduring features of the strategic environment. In this episode of the Contested Ground podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by expert defence and security analyst and White House veteran Robbin Laird to discuss the impact of the emergence of the era of disruption. This only becomes more important and pivotal as we grapple with the reality that the international system is no longer defined by uncontested Western dominance, nor is it returning to a simple Cold War-style bipolar structure. Rather, the world is evolving into a fragmented and highly interconnected environment where economic dependency and geopolitical rivalry coexist simultaneously, particularly between the United States and China. This creates strategic complexity for middle powers such as Australia, whose decisions on defence, trade, industrial policy, and alliances will increasingly shape the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. Australia's response to this is recognising the growing importance of resilience and sovereign capability. The author argues that efficiency and globalisation can no longer be the sole priorities for democratic nations if they undermine strategic security. Supply chains, industrial capacity, digital infrastructure, and technological innovation are increasingly viewed as national security issues rather than purely economic considerations. In this context, adaptability, redundancy, and the ability to rapidly regenerate capability are presented as critical determinants of national power. Ultimately, democratic nations must rethink how they approach leadership, preparedness, and strategy in a world defined by accelerating disruption. Rather than attempting to restore an increasingly obsolete status quo, governments and institutions must develop the capacity to operate effectively amid prolonged uncertainty, while strengthening alliances, industrial resilience, and societal cohesion to navigate an increasingly contested global order. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground Team

Questions remain around Australia's defence modernisation efforts. Can the nation continue expanding advanced capabilities while balancing cost, readiness, and strategic priorities? In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, Robert Dougherty and Bethany Alvaro discuss concerns surrounding the Arafura Class offshore patrol vessel program, including delays, capability questions, and reductions to planned vessel numbers. The discussion also explores the Australian Army's UH-60M Black Hawk fleet, emerging technologies such as sonic weapons and autonomous underwater systems, as well as sustainability in defence capability development. Attention then turns to proposals for Australia to consider B-21 Raider bombers as part of its long-range strike capability, alongside broader questions surrounding AUKUS, defence spending, and strategic alignment with the United States. Rounding out the episode, the team examines expectations ahead of the upcoming federal budget and what it could mean for future defence priorities. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

Australian students and teachers have been compromised by an international data breach, with thousands of kids likely impacted. David Hollingworth and Daniel Croft break down how it happened, why it matters, and what schools need to do to protect themselves. PLUS! Cyber Daily partners with Austrade to bring you a series of interviews direct from the RSA Conference 2026. Artificial intelligence is having an impact on almost every industry, and finance is no exception – that's why the US Federal Reserve is helping the sector navigate the global impact of AI. And while organisations are adopting the technology at pace, they're often too slow to secure it. Understand why that matters and what your organisation can do. The big news of the week stems from a breach of cloud education platform provider Instructure, and Aussie schools – and staff and students – have already been compromised. Find out what happened, who did the hacking, and what it means for the education sector at large. If you're a school CISO, this is vital information! Finally, the podcast wraps up with a pair of special guests, as Austrade's investment director at the Australian embassy in Washington sits down with ThreatLocker's Rob Allen to talk about the company's philosophy, its operations in Australia, and the importance of application control in the modern enterprise. Just another week in cyber security. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

How close can a modern reproduction come to the legendary Supermarine Spitfire from World War II? And what does preserving and flying these aircraft reveal about aviation engineering, military history and innovation? In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by Keith Russell, owner and pilot of the Whitsunday Spitfire, a 90 per cent scale reproduction of the iconic World War II Mk26B Spitfire aircraft. Formerly known as the Port Hedland Spitfire and White Gum Spitfire, Russell's aircraft recently appeared at Warbirds Over Scone 2026 in NSW and Warbirds Over Wānaka in New Zealand. Russell is also the former owner of Golden Eagle Airlines, a regional airline previously operating out of Derby, Western Australia, and has spent decades immersed in aviation operations and historic aircraft. Drawing on his experiences flying both reproduction and original wartime Spitfires, including a two-seat Spitfire flight at Duxford in 2005, Russell discusses the engineering, handling and passion behind operating one of the world's most recognisable fighter aircraft. The podcast conversation includes the following topics: How the reproduction Spitfire compares to original wartime aircraft in handling, flight dynamics and pilot experience. The engineering evolution of the aircraft, including modern modifications, experimental aviation regulations and replica aircraft manufacturing. The strong international warbird community and the passion driving private ownership of historic military aircraft. Operational realities of flying tailwheel aircraft, aerobatics and maintaining aviation discipline and safety. Paint schemes, restoration authenticity and the challenges of balancing historical accuracy with personal customisation. The role of innovation in aviation, from handcrafted aircraft design through to CNC manufacturing and experimental engineering. Finally, the discussion explores the nature of warfare with older aircraft making a return to defeat drones and autonomous systems during the conflict in Ukraine. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

Qualys ANZ managing director Sam Salehi joins the Cyber Uncut podcast to expose the expanding AI attack surface, the governance gaps exposing organisations, and why boards must translate cyber risk into dollars to take it seriously. This week on the Cyber Uncut podcast, host Liam Garman speaks with Qualys ANZ managing director Sam Salehi about the rapidly evolving "AI attack surface" – from shadow AI usage and prompt injection risks to data leakage and model vulnerabilities – and why a lack of visibility is leaving businesses exposed before they even realise it. Salehi outlines the core problem facing security leaders: organisations often don't know what AI tools are already in use, let alone how to secure them. The conversation explores how fragmented tooling, poor asset inventory, and missing business context are undermining risk management efforts, while boards continue to push AI adoption for efficiency gains. Salehi argues that leaders are flying blind, prioritising the wrong threats while leaving critical exposures unaddressed. From data minimisation and API security to continuous monitoring and the rise of the "risk operations centre", Salehi emphasises the need for a unified, risk-based approach. His bottom line is blunt: in an environment where exploitation timelines are shrinking to hours, the only metric that matters is how quickly organisations can detect and close exposure – before attackers do. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

Questions remain around sovereign manufacturing. Can Australia continue scaling its land and cyber capabilities while balancing industrial capacity and long-term strategic priorities? In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, Stephen Kuper, Robert Dougherty and Bethany Alvaro discuss a significant week across Australia's defence landscape, in particular the $750 million investment to expand the Bushmaster protected mobility vehicle fleet (PMV). The discussion explores the platform's operational performance, lessons learnt from deployment in Ukraine, and emerging considerations around counter-drone technologies, including the potential integration of directed-energy systems. The team also assesses news about the broader land capability developments, including a $2.3 billion push to enhance the Army's long-range strike capacity through systems such as the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System. Attention then turns to domestic industrial capacity, with a closer look at Australia's ability to manufacture key components locally, such as vehicle engines. On leadership, the team discusses the appointment of a new defence secretary, marking a historic milestone and signalling a potential shift towards stronger alignment between defence strategy and domestic industry policy. Rounding out the episode, the panel dives into emerging cyber defence priorities, including proposals for a national cyber reserve force. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

How is Australia building a specialised space workforce while balancing sovereign capability, allied integration and the operational demands of a contested domain? In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Commander of Australian Space Command, Major General Gregory Novak AM, to discuss the rapid evolution of the space domain and its growing importance to national security. MAJGEN Novak outlines the role of Space Command as a force generation organisation responsible for raising, training and sustaining Australia's space capability. The discussion explores direct entry pathways and creation of dedicated space workforce streams, including space operations officers and specialists as well as how these roles will build deep technical mastery while maintaining integration across land, sea, air and cyber domains. The episode also examines how Australia is prioritising key mission areas such as satellite communications, space domain awareness and missile warning while balancing sovereign capability development with allied and commercial partnerships. The podcast conversation includes the following topics: Introduction of direct entry recruitment pathways for space operations roles. Development of a specialised Australian Defence Force space workforce and career progression model. Key priority mission sets, including satellite communications, space domain awareness and missile warning. Balancing sovereign capability with allied, partner and commercial integration. The role of space in enabling joint force operations and national resilience. Growth of Australia's domestic space industry and opportunities in launch capability. Challenges of operating in a contested and congested space environment. The importance of public awareness and understanding of space's role in everyday life. Finally, the discussion reflects on the future of the space domain, the need for speed in capability development, and the importance of nurturing the next generation of space professionals. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

The release and messaging surrounding the 2026 National Defence Strategy and 2026 Integrated Investment Program is just the latest salvo in the government's effort to direct the national conversation about our national security. With the government emphasising major increases in Defence spending over the next decade, the government is hoping that the headline figures and a lack of public understanding of Defence spending will be enough to convince the nation we're doing enough to protect our interests. Hosts Phil Tarrant, Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson and Steve Kuper deep dive into the current battle for control of the narrative and the unfolding strategies being leveraged to target various Australian demographics, with specific examples in the economic domain as Australians face increasing inflation and fuel insecurity despite what they're being told. The trio also unpack the latest announcements around the winds of change sweeping through the Department of Defence, with the recent appointments to chief of Defence, chief of Army and the appointment of the new secretary of Defence designed to emphasise the government's priority areas: national resilience and sovereignty. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

The world of maritime operations is built on a bedrock foundation of modern naval sustainment. In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by David Astbury, Asia-Pacific general manager for Defence at Serco, to explore the evolving challenges and opportunities shaping maritime maintenance and sustainment. Kuper and Astbury discuss the growing importance of resilient, sovereign sustainment capabilities as Australia prepares for the delivery of future naval platforms, including AUKUS submarines and an expanded surface fleet. The pair explore advancements in autonomous systems and digital technologies that are reshaping traditional sustainment models, requiring new skill sets across electrical, electronic and software domains. They discuss the impact of life cycle management, with defence organisations placing greater emphasis on designing platforms with sustainment and upgrade pathways in mind. Platforms must be adaptable, with more frequent upgrades and modular architectures. Cost pressures remain a key challenge but looking ahead, they examine the growing influence of artificial intelligence in maintenance and diagnostics, enabling faster decision making and reducing reliance on traditional support models. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect Spotlight team

David Hollingworth and Daniel Croft dive into the biggest stories in cyber security and cyber intelligence, and Anthropic's Claude Mythos preview and Project Glasswing continue to cover both – and it's already been breached. Plus, age verification plans in the European Union (EU), and a wrap-up of ransomware incidents impacting Aussie businesses. Love it or hate it, but age verification appears to be here to stay, and while Australia may be struggling with its implementation, Hollingworth and Croft think the EU may be on to something with its take – find out why, and why it's a better idea than Australia's. Anthropic's Claude Mythos AI model is hyped as a vulnerability-hunting powerhouse and too dangerous to share, but outsiders have already gotten inside. And one expert thinks the hype for the platform doesn't match the reality. Finally, it's been another less-than-stellar week for ransomware actors targeting Australian businesses, with a crane manufacturer, a pharmacy, and a family history society all falling victim to hackers. Just another week in cyber security. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

How can Australia improve veteran support while strengthening recruitment, retention and workforce pathways in the Australian Defence Force? In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Minister for Veterans' Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel Matt Keogh to discuss preparations for Anzac Day, the recently released 2026 National Defence Strategy, and ongoing reforms following the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. Minister Keogh outlines key developments in defence capability investment, workforce growth and leadership changes across the ADF. The discussion explores the importance of supporting veterans through transition into civilian careers and strengthening pathways into defence industry. The conversation also addresses cultural and generational shifts within the veteran community, including engagement with younger veterans and the role of organisations like the Returned & Services League in a changing landscape. The podcast conversation includes the following topics: Upcoming National Defence Strategy and Integrated Investment Program priorities. Recent ADF leadership appointments and their significance for the future force. Progress on implementing royal commission recommendations and veteran wellbeing reforms. Recruitment and retention trends across the ADF, including workforce growth and application improvements. Veteran employment pathways, skills recognition and transition into civilian and defence industry roles. Challenges and opportunities in building a representative veteran community voice. Finally, the discussion reflects on the meaning of Anzac Day, recognising the service and sacrifice of Australian men and women. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

Welcome to the world of resilient, mission-ready defence systems – welcome to open source. In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by Margaret Dawson, chief marketing officer at SUSE, to explore the evolving role of open source software in modern defence environments. Dougherty and Dawson discuss how the open-source model is being applied across defence, from enterprise systems to tactical edge environments, where software must operate securely in disconnected, high-risk conditions. Benefits include greater transparency, rapid innovation and scalable collaboration internationally. Dawson explains how technologies like Linux and Kubernetes support modular, lightweight architectures, allowing defence organisations to deploy and manage applications across diverse and constrained environments. The conversation also highlights key challenges, including air-gapped systems, security requirements and software supply chain integrity, alongside the role of industry in delivering hardened, compliant solutions. Looking ahead, the pair touch on the growing influence of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, and how open-source principles can support faster, more adaptable capability development. This is more than a technology discussion, it's about enabling resilient, mission-ready defence systems through modern software approaches. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect Spotlight team

We are consistently reminded that Australia is a maritime trading nation and, as such, is exposed to all the vulnerabilities. So why haven't we prepared accordingly? As the ceasefire in the Middle East collapses and both sides begin to once again ramp up their efforts to assert control over the Strait of Hormuz and the globally sensitive waterway, Australia is reminded of its inherent vulnerability to global maritime shocks. To date, Australia's response to these challenges has been to default to the organs and institutions established by the post-World War II order, seeking arbitration, mediation and resolution, however, those mechanisms no longer suffice. In this episode of the Contested Ground podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by UNSW's Professor Douglas Guilfoyle and Associate Professor Daniel Prior, authors of the World in Transition report detailing the challenges which face Australia and now thrown into public focus as a result of the conflict in the Middle East. The trio deep dive into the legal, economic and political challenges that have emerged as a result of the conflict in the Middle East and Australia's mounting issues that will only continue to compound in the coming months. They also discuss the ramifications of post-Cold War globalisation and the creation and vulnerability of the "just in time" supply chain ecosystems and what can be done to minimise our exposure to these challenges. Finally, they also interrogate the phenomena of "friendshoring" and "reshoring" as solutions to bringing supply chains closer to home as a means of securing national interests and what models can be leveraged to change Australia's self-inflicted vulnerability. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

Many organisations struggle with the changing nature of cyber security compliance and regulations – but it can be a powerful force for positive change, according to the head of advisory and assurance at Fujitsu, Laura O'Neill. Join Cyber Daily's deputy editor, David Hollingworth, and Fujitsu's Laura O'Neill as they take an insightful look at the world of compliance and regulations in the age of AI adoption at scale and an expanding threat landscape. In this essential podcast, the pair analyse the shift from "compliance" to "continuous cyber accountability" before moving onto critical infrastructure and its modern definition, the challenges of securing ever more complex supply chains and how, at the end of the day, it's all about keeping businesses and their processes ready to face the inevitable without fear. O'Neill will be a guest at this month's Australian Cyber Summit, along with range of other exceptional speakers and panellists, so get your tickets now!

How is drone racing shaping the future of military capability? And can Australia harness these skills to strengthen its uncrewed systems and workforce? In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by Wing Commander Keirin Joyce, Australian Defence Force Drone Racing Association president and deputy director of disruptive experimentation in the Royal Australian Air Force, to discuss the recent Military International Drone Racing Tournament held in Sydney, where the ADF secured its sixth consecutive team victory amid growing global competition. WGCDR Joyce holds a bachelor of aeronautical engineering (honours) from the Australian Defence Force Academy and has spent more than two decades in support of the ADF Uncrewed Aerial Systems capability, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. He shares experiences from his most recent speaking engagement at the Deakin Defence Conference in Melbourne and his PhD paper: Barriers to large logistics drones. The podcast conversation includes the following topics: How the tournament operates across racing and tactical phases, including payload delivery and aerial interception challenges designed to replicate real-world combat scenarios. Strong crossover between drone racing and military capability. Drone racing and ADF drone capability's role in recruitment, STEM engagement and developing a future-ready workforce. Finally, the discussion looks at evolving drone warfare trends, future ADF integration and opportunities to expand drone racing across services, cadets and veterans. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

Cyber security leadership matters now more than ever, and the role of CISO is the most important piece of the puzzle. Join Cyber Daily's David Hollingworth and PEXA's cyber lead, Graham Fairley, to discover how security can become a business enabler, not an afterthought. With the Australian Cyber Summit 2026 coming up later this month, David Hollingworth, deputy editor of Cyber Daily, is joined by the CISO of property settlement platform PEXA to deep dive into how the role of CISO can be a key part of any business's growth story. From enabling business growth via secure business practices, to treating cyber security as a whole-of-business necessity rather than just something that's "nice to have" – all while navigating the advancement of AI – this essential discussion will expand your idea of what a CISO can be. Don't forget – tickets are now on sale for the Australian Cyber Summit, coming up on 30 April in Sydney. BUY YOURS NOW!

Can Australia balance the cost of expanding its drone-based attack and defence capabilities on a shoestring budget? Industry is rightly worried about possible cost cuts. In an editorial discussion for this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, Stephen Kuper, Robert Dougherty and Bethany Alvaro take a run at a burgeoning week of news across Australia's defence landscape and how international conflict in the Middle East is rippling outwards to pressure fuel supplies Down Under. The team also examines the recent promotion of Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AO RAN to become the next chief of the Defence Force and the appointment of Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM as the next chief of the Australian Army, the first woman to hold the position. The conversation then explores the newly signed Major Defense Cooperation Partnership agreement and joint special forces training between hardline governments in the US and Indonesia. Turning to defence industry, the panel puts a speculative spotlight on dreaded Defence budget cuts and reallocations under the release of the new National Defence Strategy. Finally, the team tackles new ship manufacturing updates in Sydney around the Royal Australian Navy's Hunter Class frigate program. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team  

Some boards consider cyber security an IT problem. Others see it as a cost. However, Dominic Grunden, CISO at PowerWater, works with department leads to embed cyber security into business strategy from day one: making safety, security, and compliance a business enabler. Ahead of this year's Australian Cyber Summit, Australia's premier cyber security conference and awards, Liam Garman sits down with Grunden to discuss how cyber leaders can communicate strategy to C-suite executives. To hear more about how CISOs are reforming risk and business strategy, secure your tickets for the Australian Cyber Summit here. Grunden dives into how he embeds cyber security into business strategy and how cyber leaders can collaborate with department heads to ensure that security is not a last-minute bottleneck for business growth. From translating complex threats into decisions executives actually act on, to balancing innovation with protection in one of Australia's most high-stakes infrastructure environments: this is a critical conversation business leaders need to have. Want to hear Grunden live? Secure your tickets to the Australian Cyber Summit here.

In the latest episode of the special Contested Ground series unpacking the fallout and implications of the conflict in the Middle East, host Steve Kuper is joined by geostrategic analyst and former Defence policymaker Marc Ablong PSM as they interrogate the nation's preparedness, the era of polycrisis and mobilisation in the modern era. As part of this, the pair deep dive into what makes a "polycrisis" and why it feels like Australia and Australians are seemingly paddling from one storm to another, both at home and abroad, undermining our national resilience and the nation's capacity to rally in the event of major regional crisis. They then move on to dissect the challenges of contemporary mobilisation being faced by Australia and like-minded nations across Europe and the United Kingdom, specifically the issues surrounding social cohesion, economic, political and social dislocation and atomisation among young Australians that directly impact national security and resilience. Finally, the pair discuss Australia's glaring lack of compelling narrative and plan to rally Australians of all generations that leave many feeling like Australia is inescapably caught in a period of managed decline, at a time when the nation's economic, political and strategic security and prosperity faces increasing tension and challenge. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz and Ukraine's masterful use of autonomous and uncrewed systems have demonstrated the need for a structural rethink about how Australia and its partners build and deliver contemporary naval power. Iran and Ukraine have successfully demonstrated, to varying degrees, the shift currently transforming contemporary naval warfare, raising questions about the future of modern naval power. In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight series, host Steve Kuper is joined by Leidos Australia's Kevin "Q" Quarderer and Major General (Ret'd) Mick Ryan as they deep dive into the fallout of the conflict in the Middle East and the lessons Australia can learn from the conflict. The trio unpack the successful USV raids conducted by Ukraine against the Russian Black Sea Fleet and the importance of investing in these emerging capabilities as a powerful, adaptable and attritable force multiplier that can be delivered at speed and scale. They also discuss the evolution of contemporary naval force design and the hybridisation of crewed and uncrewed forces as a means of offsetting adversarial advantages, including how nuclear-powered submarines, partnering with the autonomous and uncrewed systems, will shape the future of the Australian Navy. Finally, they interrogate the shortfalls to date and Australia's policy towards the acceptance, fielding and training with uncrewed and autonomous systems and moving away from a risk-averse approach to changing with the times and why that needs to change. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect Spotlight team

David Hollingworth and Daniel Croft tackle the week's stories that matter, from predictions of dire disruption to the banking industry, Iranian cyber warfare, North Korean hackers in our code, and Americans and Aussies partnering up to combat North Korean hackers. Artificial intelligence, says JP Morgan's boss, is going to change banking forever, while at the same time, Atlassian is laying off staff in order to fund its AI developments. There's no doubt AI is the fox in the henhouse right now, and Hollingworth and Croft take a hard look at where things really stand. Then it's on to cyber security, with pro-Iran hackers targeting critical infrastructure and North Korean hackers getting inside the code every developer relies upon. These are two massive challenges for network defenders, and every CISO needs to understand the stakes at play. Finally, sticking with North Korea, there is some good news – Australia and the United States are now working together to fight back against the scourge of fake IT workers infiltrating our workplaces to fund weapons research and steal intellectual property. Just another week in cyber security. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut Team

What does it take to lead the Royal Australian Navy in an increasingly uncertain world? Courage, integrity, service, respect and excellence. Defence Connect senior journalist Robert Dougherty holds a rare in-depth conversation with Royal Australian Navy Commander Surface Force, Commodore Antony Pisani CSC, aboard the helicopter landing dock HMAS Canberra off the NSW coast. CDRE Pisani offers an uncommon look behind the scenes inside the operational engine room of the Royal Australian Navy. From force generation and fleet readiness to training, sustainment and deployment, he outlines how Australia prepares its surface fleet for everything – from border protection to outright conflict. From crew readiness, system maintenance and advanced warfighting exercises to emerging autonomous technologies and evolving defence priorities, this discussion connects strategic policy with real-world capability. The conversation explores how the Royal Australian Navy is adapting to a more complex global environment, what a "focused force" really means, and how new platforms and partnerships are shaping the future of maritime operations. Not to be missed, the discussion provides a seldom seen, clear window into how Australia is building a more capable and resilient naval force in response to shifting geopolitical realities. Enjoy the conversation, The Defence Connect team Defence Connect has made minor audio edits to this podcast interview for clarity and listener experience.

On this not-to-be-missed podcast, David Hollingworth and Daniel Croft look at the AI best of times and worst of times for the UK's Lloyds Bank, see what LockBit's up to in the ransomware space, and have a look at Australia's new draft Children's Online Privacy Code. Good news for Lloyds – the UK's biggest bank is deploying AI to bolster its data engineering. It's a smart move that makes sense of the technology, however... Bad news for Lloyds – the UK's biggest bank may have just exposed a mountain of customer data due to an AI glitch. The pair also break down how the LockBit ransomware group has evolved and why an Australian toy store may be the perfect target, before having a look at the impact of scams on the Aussie and how terrorist groups are taking advantage of our generosity. Finally, it's good news, as the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) is looking at rewriting the rules to protect our kids' data online. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

How do you stay composed when your aircraft is struck by a surface-to-air missile over enemy territory, your hydraulics fail, and you're staring down at the city of Baghdad? For Colonel (Ret'd) Kim Campbell, the answer wasn't luck – it was 24 years of rigorous training, a "lead with courage" mindset, and the redundant, rugged engineering of the A-10 Warthog. In this gripping episode, Tash Taylor sits down with one of the United States Air Force's most courageous pilots to recount the harrowing mission on 7 April 2003 that earned her the Distinguished Flying Cross. Kim shares the split-second decision making required to fly a manual "cranks and pulleys" system for an hour-long flight back to safety, proving that while the jet doesn't know your gender, it certainly knows your competence. Beyond the cockpit, Kim discusses the transition from fighter pilot to high-level leader at the Pentagon and the Air Force Academy. She opens up about the "juggling act" of military motherhood and the importance of authentic connection – including a heartwarming story of her three-year-old crashing a formal military ceremony. The Progress Report. New voices. Real stories. Big shifts. Enjoy the podcast, The Progress Report team

The AUKUS partnership represents one of the most ambitious defence industrial undertakings in modern history, and in this episode, host Steve Kuper is joined by Chris Waywell (UK), Rob Sansbury and Robert Fogel (US) of Stantec to explore what it will really take to make it work. While public attention has largely focused on the acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines, our panel argues that the true measure of success lies deeper – within the complementary infrastructure and industrial ecosystems required to enable, sustain and secure these capabilities over decades. For Australia, this is nothing short of a generational shift. Building a nuclear-ready enterprise demands far more than industry standard platforms. It requires significant investment in shipyards, robust regulatory and safety frameworks, and, critically, a highly skilled workforce. From engineers and nuclear safety specialists to project managers and trades, the human element will ultimately define the pace, resilience and credibility of delivery. The discussion also turns to the broader AUKUS partnership, with the United Kingdom and the United States needing to expand and adapt their own industrial bases to support a truly trilateral model. Increasing production capacity, harmonising standards and streamlining technology transfer will be essential, as interoperability evolves from an operational concept into an industrial and functional necessity. Layered over this is the challenge of sovereign resilience. Secure, diversified supply chains and deeper collaboration across industry, academia and allied partners will be key to building enduring capability. This is a long-term endeavour. As the panel highlights, sustained commitment across political and economic cycles will be vital if AUKUS is to fulfil its potential – catalysing advanced manufacturing, boosting national productivity and underpinning a new era of strategic industry. In this episode, we examine how building the backbone of AUKUS will ultimately determine whether the partnership delivers on its promise. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect Spotlight team

Australia has long prided itself on being the "Lucky Country", celebrating a culture of "she'll be right" now that a national culture of apathy is biting at home as the world continues to burn. As the war in the Middle East continues to rage by the day, Australia and Australians are beginning to feel the very real ramifications in our daily lives. All of this comes as Australia's political leaders and policymakers continue to point fingers at one another for the respective failures over the past three decades that have all combined to leave Australia dangerously exposed to the shocks of the new multipolar world. But these aren't the only challenges that are serving to leave Australia in a volatile, unpredictable position, as social cohesion, industrial and economic resilience and demographics combine to create a powder keg for both the public and its policymakers. Host Steve Kuper is joined by Ben Dullroy of Beaten Zone Venture Partners and Bravo Delta Advisory as they break down the combination of global and domestic factors shaping the nation's resilience, stability and security. This conversation comes at a time when the public and private debate continues about who has failed the nation, were the ultimate costs of neoliberal hyperglobalisation worth it and can we pivot quickly enough to secure our economic, political and strategic interests? Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

Cyber security, AI ethics, and geopolitical hacking collide in a packed week of headlines – and in this episode of Cyber Uncut, David Hollingworth and Daniel Croft break down what actually matters. The pressure is mounting on AI firms as Australian regulators eye hefty fines for platforms deemed unsafe for children – is this a fight the Aussie government can win, or will the tech bros find a way to dodge their responsibilities once again? Controversy over US food delivery giant DoorDash tapping workers to help train its AI models is also a hot topic and, once again, Hollingworth and Croft unpack the situation and possible ramifications. From there, the focus shifts to cyber crime: alleged breaches at anime streaming service Crunchyroll and automotive giant Mazda, Lockheed Martin pushing back on claims that F-35 data was compromised by a pro-Iranian hacker, and an Australian man facing significant jail time over a darknet child abuse site. Rounding things out, the pair examine rising tensions in the cyber domain, with Iran-linked threat actor Handala drawing the attention of FBI director Kash Patel, before offering a preview of what to expect at next month's Australian Cyber Summit. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

In this special episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Robert Dougherty leads an expert panel marking the 125th anniversary of the Royal Australian Navy and Australian Army, reflecting on their evolution since Federation in 1901. The panel features defence experts, including former Royal Australian Navy officer Jennifer Parker, Vice Admiral (Ret'd) Peter Jones, and UNSW Canberra senior lecturer in history and maritime strategy, Dr Richard Dunley. The panel explores how Australia's military institutions have developed across doctrine, strategy, culture and identity – from their origins as colonial forces to their current role within complex alliance structures, the discussion highlights both continuity and transformation across more than a century of service. The conversation examines key doctrinal shifts, including the transition from British to United States alignment as well as enduring strategic themes such as maritime dependence and coalition warfare. The panel also reflects on how historical assumptions such as the reliance on a "great and powerful friend" or geographic isolation continue to shape modern defence thinking. Beyond strategy, the episode explores how leadership, workforce expectations and military culture have evolved, alongside the changing relationship between the Australian public and its armed forces. Looking ahead, the panel considers the challenges of preparing for future conflict amid uncertainty, technological change and shifting global power dynamics. These topics include engaging discussion across the following: Key doctrinal shifts that shaped the modern Australian Army and Royal Australian Navy. The transition from British influence to close operational alignment with the United States. Enduring strategic themes, including maritime security and reliance on allies. The evolution of joint operations and the increasing integration of the Australian Defence Force. The balance between continuity and change in military roles and strategic outlook. The impact of historical assumptions on current defence policy and planning. Changes in leadership, workforce diversity and military culture over time. The relationship between the Australian public and its armed forces. The challenges of preparing for high-intensity conflict in an uncertain global environment. The future role of the ADF amid technological change, alliance dynamics and regional instability. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Contested Ground Podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant, Steve Kuper and Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson unpack the concept of sovereign industrial capability and its growing importance amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The trio explore how the idea of sovereignty has evolved from a defence-specific concept into a broader national priority, particularly as global supply chains face disruption and Australia confronts its structural dependencies. They discuss the lack of a clear, shared definition of sovereign capability, and how misunderstandings persist even within defence and national security circles. The conversation highlights the need for Australia to identify and secure critical capabilities domestically, ranging from fuel and logistics to data and cyber resilience. The episode also reflects on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and questions whether Australia has made meaningful progress in strengthening self-reliance, or if it remains vulnerable to external shocks. With rising geopolitical tensions and shifting global dynamics, the speakers consider whether the era of globalisation is reaching its limits. These topics include engaging discussion across: The meaning (and ambiguity) of sovereign industrial capability in modern Australia. Lessons from COVID-19 and ongoing reliance on fragile global supply chains. The impact of geopolitical conflict on fuel security, logistics and economic stability. The challenge of building true national resilience versus shifting dependence. The role of political leadership and decision making in shaping sovereign capability. The effects of political fragmentation and polarisation on national security planning. Whether globalisation has reached its limits and the rise of nationalism. The practical components of sovereignty, including fuel, munitions, cyber resilience and industrial capacity. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

What does the war in Iran have to do with Australian housing? Potentially, everything. In this bold episode of the Contested Ground Podcast, Phillip Tarrant, Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson and leading real estate commentator Tom Panos unpack one of the most overlooked questions in Australia right now: how escalating conflict in the Middle East could reshape the nation's property market. From fuel prices, inflation and interest rates to rents, construction costs, investor confidence and housing supply, this is a serious attempt to connect global conflict with local property pain (or, maybe, opportunity). The conversation explores whether Australia's real estate market is resilient enough to withstand another major shock, what it means for home owners and investors, and why the consequences of war can hit far closer to home than many realise. This is not just a discussion about foreign affairs. This podcast episode is sharp, original and one of the first serious efforts to examine how geopolitics could directly shape the future of Australian housing. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Lee Davis, senior director at Honeywell Aerospace Australia, to unpack what's being described as the most transformative industrial undertaking in the nation's history – Australia's AUKUS industrial base strategy. At its core, AUKUS is about far more than submarines. It's about building a deeply integrated, trilateral industrial ecosystem across Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom – one that combines advanced design, nuclear propulsion expertise, and sovereign Australian industrial capability. Kuper and Davis explore what it actually takes to stand up a domestic nuclear-powered submarine enterprise – from shipbuilding and sustainment to workforce development and supply chain integration. A key focus is how Australian industry, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, can position themselves to plug into global supply chains and capitalise on unprecedented access to allied programs. Davis provides insight into the role of industry in driving capability, highlighting how clear demand signals and government investment are critical to unlocking scale, innovation, and long-term resilience. The conversation also examines the policy settings underpinning AUKUS, including new export control reforms enabling licence-free defence trade between partners, and what this means for technology transfer, intellectual property, and sovereign control. But with opportunity comes risk. The pair discuss the challenges ahead – from workforce shortages and infrastructure demands to supply-chain bottlenecks and the complexity of managing sensitive nuclear technologies. This is more than a defence capability story, it's a whole-of-nation industrial transformation. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect Spotlight team

In this episode of the Contested Ground Podcast, host Phil Tarrant sits down with co-host Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson to unpack the second-order effects of the ongoing Middle East conflict – and what it could mean for Australia's security environment. The latest Contested Ground Podcast explores how the Middle East conflict could affect Australia, with a focus on cyber disinformation and proxy activity. Tarrant highlights that influence operations are most likely to arrive online rather than on our shores, while Thompson notes the growing role of AI-driven deepfakes, synthetic media, and coordinated social media campaigns in shaping public perception. Both hosts question Australia's preparedness to counter foreign interference, warning that disinformation could inflame social and political divisions. They also flag economic impacts, including rising fuel prices and supply chain pressures, as likely long-term effects. A central theme of the discussion was resilience. Australians need to critically assess the information they consume, recognising that modern conflict extends well beyond traditional battlefields and into the digital domain. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

In this episode of Cyber Uncut, David Hollingworth and Daniel Croft unpack the week's cyber and AI developments, from local artificial intelligence news to age verification wrinkles, and cyber conflict overspilling from the war in Iran. The pair kick off the podcast discussion by taking a look at the latest AI news out of the Commonwealth Bank, and this time, it's good news, as the bank deployed a pair of security agents. The pair then take a look at the Australian Defence Force and its own work in integrating AI into its battle management programs. After that, it's time for cyber security! The Handala hacking group has turned its gaze far abroad and targeted a medical technology company, disrupting surgeries and supply chains, while a mysterious hacker has targeted a Kiwi healthcare organisation with a bizarre – and disruptive – cyber attack. The pair also discuss the effectiveness of injunctions and how non-publication orders may seem like a useful tool for victims of cyber attacks but are easily ignorable by the criminals themselves. Finally, Hollingworth and Croft finish things up by looking at the rise of VPNs in the wake of new age verification laws and discussing the new sanctions levied against Chinese and Iranian hackers by the European Union. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

How do you explain to a six-year-old that her father isn't just "away" but serving the nation? For Hayley Boswell, the answer started with a handmade book and a story about saving sea turtles. A former lawyer and youth worker turned CEO and founder of Defence Kidz, Hayley is on a mission to ensure that one in 20 Australian children with a veteran parent are no longer the "invisible" part of the defence capability. In this episode, Tash Taylor sits down with Hayley to discuss the emotional and practical realities of military life. From successfully lobbying for veteran identifiers in schools to shipping out hundreds of "deployment packs" designed by psychologists, Hayley shares how small tools – like a weighted koala or a T-shirt – can provide the resilience a child needs when their world is constantly in motion. Hayley reflects on her own upbringing as a "military child", moving from Toowoomba to the Navy life, and how those early memories shaped her mission. From Adelaide Zoo connection days to the magic of a recorded bedtime story sent from Afghanistan, Hayley illustrates how Defence Kidz is rebuilding that lost sense of belonging. The Progress Report. New voices. Real stories. Big shifts. Enjoy the podcast, The Progress Report team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by the new shadow minister for defence, Senator James Paterson, to discuss his appointment and ambitions for the nation's defence capabilities. The pair unpack a host of issues, including the following: The key priorities the senator and opposition have identified as focal points for this term of government. The local and global fallout of the ongoing Iran conflict and the lessons Australia can learn from the successful asymmetric tactics and strategies employed by Iran. The debate about defence spending – is it enough to merely focus on the headline figures: 2.5 versus 3 versus 3.5 per cent of gross domestic product. Getting the balance of capabilities right rather than focusing on single platforms or capabilities in isolation; viewing the Australian Defence Force as an ecosystem of capabilities that need to be balanced rather than overly specialised, exquisite platforms. Australia's key vulnerabilities and opportunities in an era of great power competition and multipolar competition. Expectations, insights and opportunities – part of the 2026 National Defence Strategy and updated Integrated Investment Program. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by Rian Whitby, deputy chief operating officer at DEWC Services and former naval officer aerospace engineer. The pair discuss the Australian defence ecosystem and electronic warfare in the lead-up to Whitby's appearance at the Electronic Warfare Australia-New Zealand 2026 conference. As part of this in-depth conversation, the pair discuss a range of subjects, including the following: The Australian defence ecosystem as well as small-to-medium enterprises and international primes supply chains. Support for the Royal Australian Navy and the evolving regional threat environment in the Indo-Pacific. Spectrum congestion and increasingly sophisticated electronic attack capabilities in modern warfare. The Royal Australian Navy's new platforms, such as future Mogami Class frigates, uncrewed underwater vessels and uncrewed surface vessels. Integration of embedded electronic warfare upgrades into legacy naval platforms. Electromagnetic warfare challenges, capability gaps and Australia's evolving sovereign electronic warfare capability. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect Spotlight team

In this episode of the Contested Ground podcast, host Steve Kuper speaks with financial intelligence expert and author, Keith Bulfin as they unpack the intricacies of the global financial systems and the weaponisation of the institutions by organised crime, terrorist and state-backed networks. The pair discuss a range of subjects including the ramifications of lax regulation and enforcement, that has resulted in significant funding, resources and technology making its way to organised crime and rogue regimes, especially Iran. Mr Bulfin's experience working for the US Department of Justice and consulting with law enforcement and intelligence communities on the financial networks of organised crime organisations like the Mexican cartels and their overlap with terror organisations. The interconnected ecosystems linking organised criminal enterprises, paramilitary and terror groups through hubs in the Middle East, particularly via hubs in Iran, the UAE, Asia and Africa. The diverse areas of growth focus for these organisations as they seek to collaborate and circumvent traditional law and intelligence countermeasures to expand their operational impact and revenue streams. The challenges presented by the growing symbiotic relationship between traditionally isolated organisations, that now share common objectives and means for furthering their business, or political reach. The continuing flow of "black money" from nations like China and India, that continue to flow into Australia, exposing our economy to major vulnerabilities across areas like real estate, consumer goods and services. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground Team

In this episode of the Contested Ground podcast miniseries following the outbreak of the latest conflict in the Middle East, hosts Steve Kuper and Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson are joined by Air Vice-Marshal (Ret'd) John Blackburn AO to discuss the implications of the Iran conflict on Australia's energy system. The trio begin by discussing the Australian government's rhetoric around the nation's liquid fuel supplies, its access to the global energy markets and the immediate ramifications of the ongoing throttling of oil flows out of the Middle East. As part of this, they unpack the state of Australia's liquid fuel stockpiles, the challenges governments face in moving to "calm" the Australian public and prevent a run on the nation's limited crude oil reserves. They also discuss the decline in the nation's refining capacity, our dependence on foreign refined fuel imports from south-east Asia and the implications for national security and resilience. Finally, they unpack the policy and regulatory challenges and opportunities that face Australia's policymakers and the immediate steps we can take to build national resilience. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

This week on Cyber Uncut, David Hollingworth and Daniel Croft unpack the week's cyber and AI news and entertain some very special guests in the studio to break down how insider threats work and how CISOs can defend against them. The pair kick off the podcast discussion by breaking down Meta's move to buy agentic AI chat platform Moltbook and how its developers have now become senior Meta AI staff, before moving on to have a look at how Pornhub has responded to eSafety's new age verification measures. Hollingworth then welcomes three fantastic guests to the podcast: Brenton Steenkamp, lead partner, heading up law firm Clayton Utz's cyber security practice; Andreas Ostenfeldt, director in Clayton Utz's risk advisory practice; and their guest, Lou Bladel, the global director of insider threat at Uber and a former FBI agent. Cyber Uncut's guests go into detail covering how insider threats work, what motivates insiders to go bad, and how CISOs can outline the challenge to their boards. Hollingworth also asks Bladel to outline his thoughts on cyber threats emerging from the fighting in Iran, before a quick chat about the risks that agentic AI can pose. Hollingworth and Croft then close out the podcast looking at the UK government voting down a move to introduce Australian-style social media age verification laws – for now. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by L3Harris Technologies vice president for Australia and New Zealand, Alan Clements, to discuss the arrival of the Royal Australian Air Force's new MC-55A Peregrine aircraft. Clements is a former F/A-18 Classic Hornet instructor and previously served as commanding officer of No. 77 Squadron. He became an air commodore in 2011 and retired from the Royal Australian Air Force as an air vice-marshal in 2020. He also served as commandant of the Australian Defence Force Academy from 2013 to 2016, then as the Australian defence attaché to the United States from 2017 to 2020 and was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia. During the podcast, the pair discuss the MC-55A Peregrine and its significance for Australia's intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) and electronic warfare capabilities, including the following: The arrival of the first MC-55A Peregrine aircraft in Australia and its role in strengthening the ADF's ISR and electronic warfare capabilities. How the platform, based on a modified Gulfstream G550 business jet, provides high-altitude, high-speed intelligence collection across the electromagnetic spectrum. The benefits of adapting commercial aircraft for military ISR missions, including lower operating costs, easier maintenance and greater flexibility. The role of the MC-55A in enhancing Australia's situational awareness and decision making across the Indo-Pacific region. Future upgrades, technological challenges and the importance of rapid software and hardware development to keep pace with evolving threats. The growing importance of the electromagnetic spectrum and artificial intelligence in modern warfare and defence operations. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Contested Ground Podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant, Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson, and Steve Kuper discuss the immediate aftermath of the US–Israeli strikes against Iran and the ramifications for Australia. The trio lays the foundation for a mini-series of focused podcast conversations over the coming weeks to address the impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East on Australia and the Australian public. These topics will include engaging conversations with a range of experts across the following: The impact on social cohesion and the rise of foreign interference in Australia's diaspora communities. Australia's declining industrial sovereignty and the impact of contested, frayed and interrupted supply chains. The economic impacts of the conflict in the Middle East and Australia's cost-of-living crisis and the fuel security challenges Australia faces. The impact on Australia's key economic pillars and the connective tissue of logistic supply chains. Cyber security, disinformation and proxy activity in Australia. Migration and the challenges facing Australia's diaspora communities. Questions relating to Australia's geographic isolation and the psychology behind our "Tyranny of Distance" and the impact on Australia's security posture. Questions relating to what kind of "Middle Power" Australia wants to be. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by UK member of Parliament for Plymouth Moor View, Fred Thomas, who has recently toured Australian defence facilities as part of a UK parliamentary delegation examining submarine infrastructure and AUKUS cooperation. Thomas has previously served as a Royal Marines Officer across several security environments, including nuclear security, counter-terrorism, arctic warfare and on overseas operations. He remains an active Royal Marines Commando Reservist. Thomas represents the recognised UK submarine hubs of Barrow and Plymouth, he has established the Defence Technology All Party Parliamentary Group, and has close links to the UK submarine enterprise, including facilities in Barrow-in-Furness and His Majesty's Naval Base Devonport. During the podcast, the pair discuss development of submarine infrastructure in Australia and historical examples from the UK, including the following: Australia's efforts to develop infrastructure and a skilled workforce to support nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS. Community perceptions of nuclear propulsion and the importance of regulation and training pathways. News from visits to facilities, including HMAS Stirling and the Australian Marine Complex, and a tour of HMS Anson during its maintenance period in Western Australia. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

This week on Cyber Uncut, Liam Garman and Daniel Croft unpack the week's cyber and AI news, while David Hollingworth reports from Zero Trust World 2026 in Florida! Garman and Croft kick off the podcast with news of ChatGPT shedding a raft of users since it announced it would sign up with the Pentagon after rival AI giant Anthropic backed down over fears its AI would be used without adequate guardrails. The pair then unpack the Commonwealth Bank's self-reported $1 billion fraud case involving illegitimate home loans after two whistleblowers accused a lender and a mortgage broker of forging income statements within the bank's private banking division. The two also cover how a hacktivist group named the "Department of Peace" allegedly breached the DHS Office of Industry Partnerships and released details on ICE and DHS contracts with over 6,000 entities, including Anduril, Microsoft, Oracle, and Palantir. Finally, we then cut to David Hollingworth on the floor of Zero Trust World 2026, where he caught up with ThreatLocker's CEO, Danny Jenkins, unpacking the cyber security implications of the fighting in Iran, after Garman and Croft outline the threats to the world's financial systems as the conflict continues in the region. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

From commercial pilot to maritime leader, Georgia Davey's "roller-coaster" career is a masterclass in adaptability. In this episode, the NORSTA Maritime program manager joins Tash Taylor to discuss her journey from the skies of northern Australia to managing maintenance for naval vessels. Georgia shares the unique challenges of defence construction and maritime logistics, offering a candid look at being the only woman in the room and her commitment to "holding the door open" for the next generation of diverse talent. The Progress Report. New voices. Real stories. Big shifts. Enjoy the podcast, The Progress Report team

In this special "Iran conflict" episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, Stephen Kuper is joined by Robert Dougherty and Bethany Alvaro to unpack major developments surrounding the escalating battle between the forces of Iran, the United States and Israel. The discussion begins with an overview of the lead-up to the conflict, proxy activity across the Middle East, then implications for regional and global security. The team examines how these developments are reshaping strategic calculations for Western allies and partners. Their attention then turns to Iran's growing use of drones, missiles and asymmetric warfare against a rapidly dwindling supply of advanced and costly munitions among Western allies, such as the US. Regionally, the team assesses how the conflict could affect maritime security in critical waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz, along with the potential impact on global energy markets and international trade routes. They also discuss alliance commitments and coalition operations, in particular with reference to Australia. The episode concludes with an analysis of the broader geopolitical consequences of the crisis and the possible "off-ramps" to peace for the Iranian people. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, host Stephen Kuper is joined by James Rabey, principal consultant at Macquarie Government, to explore how AUKUS and broader Defence reforms are reshaping security requirements across Australia's defence industry supply chain. As part of this in-depth conversation, the pair discuss a range of subjects, including the following: How AUKUS and the expansion of Australia's sovereign capability are increasing cyber security obligations for both traditional defence primes and non-traditional suppliers entering the market. What the Defence Industry Security Program (DISP) requires across personnel, physical and cyber security; and the key decisions that businesses must make before committing to accreditation. Why achieving Essential Eight maturity model level two should be considered baseline cyber hygiene for any organisation, not just defence suppliers. The growing threat environment facing Australia, including state-sponsored actors, low-and-slow intrusions, and the targeting of operational technology and internet-facing devices. How businesses can balance investment, risk and reward when engaging with Defence, and the broader commercial benefits of uplifting cyber posture, including reduced insurance premiums and stronger resilience. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect Spotlight team

This week on Cyber Uncut, David Hollingworth and Daniel Croft unpack the week's cyber and AI news and entertain a special guest to boot! The pair kick off the podcast discussing Qantas facing a backlash over a series of job cuts that may be informed by the company embracing AI, while WiseTech's announcement of 2,000 job cuts definitely is driven by AI uptake. The pair also talk about CrowdStrike's latest research, which shows hackers are embracing AI as much as everyone else. Hollingworth then unpacks a hacking spree targeting Australian small and medium-sized businesses by the Qilin ransomware operation, as well as a hack that has taken a major Aussie poultry producer offline. The pair also discuss the implications of an Australian man charged for selling cyber secrets to a broker linked to Russia. Hollingworth introduces this week's guest, ProofPoint CEO Sumit Dhawan, before the pair have a chat about agentic AI threats and how CISOs can educate their boards, and then they have a look at a more lighthearted – somewhat – sex toy data breach. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by Trevor Fortner, a former US Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal specialist, Blackwater PMC contractor and current EverydaySpy consultant. Fortner has formerly served as a US Navy EOD master training specialist and operated alongside Tier 1 units, including SEAL Team Six and Delta Force. He previously led Blackwater's ambassador protection detail, served as a tactical commander for the US ambassador's diplomatic security service protection detail in Iraq, trained personnel with the United Arab Emirates Presidential Guard and Iraqi counter-terrorism units. He now works as a principal engineer and test architect at Raytheon Missiles & Defense. During the podcast, the pair discuss the modern battlefield and future warfare topics, including: An insight into the world of Navy EOD and the unique demands of elite special operations training. The intelligence, preparation and leadership required for high-risk capture missions, such as the recent US actions in Venezuela. Public misconceptions surrounding private military contractors and how the industry has evolved since Iraq and Afghanistan. The military strategy shift towards network-centric warfare, artificial intelligence-enabled decision making and industrial resilience. The US military's renewed focus on standards, accountability and the resurgence of "warrior culture". The pair close out the discussion with a rapid-fire round of questions relating to Fortner's military training experience. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team Defence Connect undertook the above podcast with cooperation from online digital learning platform EverydaySpy. For more information about EverydaySpy, visit the following links. Find your Spy Superpower: https://yt.everydayspy.com/4aXS3qi Explore Spy School: https://everydayspy.com/ Listen to the podcast: https://youtube.com/@EverydaySpyPodcast Learn from a CIA Spy: https://youtube.com/@Andrew-Bustamante

In this episode of the Contested Ground Podcast, hosts Steve Kuper and Liam Garman speak with Agsecure's Andrew Henderson as they unpack the recently released US food security strategy. The trio unpack the details underpinning the pivot in American thinking resulting in the development of the food security strategy. They also discuss the key priorities and focus areas identified in the food security strategy, ranging from concerns around biosecurity, foreign ownership of agricultural land through to supply chain bottlenecks and constraints for key inputs. The trio also unpack the lessons for Australia as we begin our own national conversation about our food security and the challenges we face despite exporting 70 per cent of our annual agricultural produce. Enjoy the Podcast The Contested Ground team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Bethany Alvaro is joined by Graeme Bulte, founder and chief executive officer of Aquaterro, as they discuss developments in next-generation small arms and the company's growing role across defence and law enforcement capability. The pair discuss Aquaterro's collaborations with global partners as well as emerging technology in hybrid ammunition, projectile design and advanced soldier systems. They also discuss a range of topics, including: Highlights from SHOT Show 2026 and key technology trends across small arms, optics, thermal imaging and helmet systems. Developments in the US Next Generation Squad Weapon program, including SIG Sauer's M7 program, hybrid ammunition technology and evolving projectile design. Implications for Australia's small arms modernisation efforts, including LAND 159 and lessons from overseas programs such as the United Kingdom's Project Grayburn. Opportunities and considerations for sovereign manufacturing in Australia, including local assembly, supply chain integration and ammunition production. Aquaterro's expanding capabilities across body armour, helmet systems, textile design and domestic manufacturing for defence and law enforcement customers. The until-now unannounced appointment of Major General (Ret'd) Fergus "Gus" McLachlan and former Victoria Police deputy commissioner Ross Guenther APM to Aquaterro's board, strengthening governance and strategic guidance. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team