Saltwater Strategists

Inaugurated in 2021, The Australian Naval Institute’s Commodore Sam Bateman Book Prize is awarded annually by the ANI to recognise excellence in books making a major contribution to the study and understanding of naval and maritime matters. The Prize is sponsored by the National Shipbuilding College and is named after Commodore Sam Bateman AM RAN (1938-2020), a former ANI Councillor and strategic thinker in recognition of his efforts to raise greater awareness of naval and/or maritime matters and progressing the understanding and value of navies in society. The winner of the 2025 SBBP is Albert Palazzo and his book, ‘The Big Fix’: Rebuilding Australia’s National Security. The Big Fix is a bold and frequently scathing critique of recent Australian defence policy, framed heavily by the 2024 National Defence Strategy and AUKUS agreement. In an unashamed challenge to the status quo, Albert offers a bold and unique alternative policy perspective for Australia’s defence and in this episode of Saltwater Strategists, host Duncan MacRae sits down with Albert to unpack the book’s many controversial themes.

Key to success in naval and maritime security operations is situational awareness. Collection and collation of battlespace data represents a significant component of operations, often long before the commencement of the main action. The concept and use of a recognised maritime picture is increasingly expanding beyond the naval and military realm with technology increasingly empowering civil security and safety organisations manage the various maritime threat vectors affecting areas such as immigration, illegal fishing, and energy and communications infrastructure under the banner of activity more broadly referred to as maritime domain awareness. In this short but insightful episode of Saltwater Strategists, Mark Douglas, former New Zealand naval officer and now maritime domain analyst with Starboard Maritime Intelligence, gives a detailed insight into how Starboard’s AI-driven platform transforms complex open- and multi-source data into a unified operational picture and delivers actionable maritime domain awareness, helping governments and industry anticipate risk, strengthen resilience, and protect global maritime interests.

Host Duncan MacRae is joined by the Royal Australian Navy’s Warrant Officer Cheryl Collins, OAM CSM, currently Warrant Officer Joint Operations and the Command Senior Enlisted Leader to the Chief of Joint Operations Australia. Having joined the RAN 30 years ago as a young woman from Cootamundra in New South Wales, Cheryl’s career has seen her undertake numerous key leadership positions across training, personnel and operations, including operational service in joint, combined and multinational environments. Over the course of their discussion, Cheryl provides her perspectives as a female and as a sailor, from her initial sea postings as a Seaman Combat Systems Operator, through multiple stints as a senior sailor aboard operationally deployed warships, in operational headquarters, and to the highest echelons of enlisted leadership in the ADF. From her most recent posting as Warrant Officer Joint Operations, Cheryl offers insights to the value of the senior enlisted leader in the ADF and among our international allies and partners. Through her reflections on this vast experience, Cheryl reveals a modern sailor who is enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and innovative, and concludes with some considered advice for sailors and the officers charged with leading them. John Seymour and Hugh White - National Library Event: https://www.library.gov.au/whats-on/events/australias-naval-alliances-john-seymour-and-hugh-white

In this first episode for 2026, host Duncan MacRae sits down with John Seymour to discuss ‘Australia’s Naval Alliances: Lessons of History’, his new book exploring the development of Australian seapower and naval forces predominantly in the context of Australia’s relationship with Great Britain; from the latter years of the 19th century, through early Federation and World War I, culminating in the fall of Singapore in World War II and Australia’s subsequent turn to the United States as naval protector. Reflecting the chronological structure of the book’s analysis, Duncan and John explore critical phases of early Australian political and social debate on naval power and the country’s status as a maritime nation before turning to the book’s topical conclusion, a measured yet provocative comparison to the current AUKUS partnership. Considering the historical themes of imperialism, alliance fragility and reliability, technological advancements, cost, and national strategic interest, Australia’s Naval Alliances poses many questions such as when might the US have their ‘Singapore moment’ and how much “blind faith” are Australian policy makers and defence planners placing in the reliability and strategic intent of our allies?

In this final episode of Saltwater Strategists for 2025, host Duncan MacRae sits down with Omni Executive’s Steven Thorpe and Nick Stoker to discuss Australian engagement and partnership in the Pacific region. Omni, an Australian-owned business and sponsor of the Australian Naval Institute, focuses on delivering innovative national security and critical infrastructure solutions to develop Australia's sovereign capability and support the national interest. As Steven prepares to step into the role of CEO of Omni in February 2026, he and Business Development Manager, Nick, draw on the company’s experience delivering services across the Pacific, and their own unique perspectives from service in the Australian Defence Force, to provide examples and recommendations on matters such as cooperation between national security institutions, Commonwealth and Australian industry collaboration in capacity building, Government policy, and even sport to address a range of challenges facing Australia in positioning itself as a dependable and supportive partner throughout the Pacific, particularly with the island nations of the South-West Pacific.

The recent Indo-Pacific Maritime Trade Exposition and the Royal Australian Navy’s Seapower Conference was the venue for the launch of ‘A Maritime Strategy for Australia – AMS 2035’, a monograph from the Naval Studies Group at the University of New South Wales (Canberra). This timely publication brings together research and analysis from a group of distinguished authors; presenting strategic, policy and practical thinking in support of its ultimate call for the development of a holistic and desperately needed national maritime strategy for Australia. In this episode of Saltwater Strategists, host Duncan MacRae is joined by the two editors of AMS 2035, Peter Jones and Jennifer Parker, to discuss the publication. Drawing on the ‘Ends-Ways-Means’ structure of the monograph, the conversation investigates Australia’s geopolitical situation and the implications of the maritime nature of Australia’s strategic position before considering the varying elements and stakeholders involved in a comprehensive national maritime strategy. The episode then concludes with a review of some of the study’s recommendations for implementing this strategy. UNSW Naval Studies Group - https://www.unsw.edu.au/canberra/about-us/our-schools/hass/our-research/maritime-security/naval-studies-group

In this episode of the Australian Naval Institute’s (ANI) Saltwater Strategists, special guest host and ANI Councillor Jen Parker is joined by Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, AO, Chief of the Royal Australian Navy and Patron of the ANI, to discuss the Navy’s transformation in the face of a rapidly changing maritime environment. Vice Admiral Hammond reflects on the milestones of his tenure as Chief of Navy, including the announcement of the upgraded Mogami-class General Purpose Frigate, the integration of enhanced missile capabilities, and the release of the National Defence Strategy with its strong maritime focus. The conversation explores how the Navy is reshaping its surface combatant and submarine fleet under AUKUS and the Surface Combatant Review, while also grappling with challenges of fleet readiness and lethality. Admiral Hammond highlights the implications of a changing maritime threat environment, underscoring the need for a capable, adaptive force. Looking ahead, Vice Admiral Hammond outlines the Navy’s priorities for the coming decade: deepening interoperability with allies and partners such as the United States and Japan, strengthening combat power, and preparing the fleet for high-end warfare. He also reflects on the Navy’s heritage as it approaches its 125th anniversary in 2026 and shares his vision for what the Navy should look like by 2030. This episode offers listeners a rare insight into how the Royal Australian Navy is navigating a pivotal moment in Australia’s defence strategy, delivering the people, partnerships, and platforms needed for the maritime century.

In this episode of Saltwater Strategists, host Duncan MacRae welcomes former Sri Lankan naval officer Dr Roshan Kulatunga to discuss Sri Lankan maritime strategy through the lens of his recent academic research. Dr Kulatunga holds a PhD in International Relations from the University of Peradeniya, where he currently conducts research on maritime strategy, sea power, maritime diplomacy and the security of small island states. He also serves as a Research Associate at the Indo-Pacific Study Centre. Dr Kulatunga describes the historical origins of contemporary naval and maritime security in Sri Lanka before drawing on applicable strategic theories such as Shelter Theory by Iceland’s Buldur Thorhallsson, and more traditional naval theorists such as Mahan, to argue the case for a deliberate, cohesive maritime strategy which brings together the full community of Sri Lankan maritime agencies and stakeholders. Through this unified strategy, supported by a strongly engaged academic and practitioner community, Sri Lanka will be best placed to face future strategic challenges.

The trilateral AUKUS agreement has drawn significant attention to the matter of naval shipbuilding across all three participant nations. Joining host Duncan MacRae to discuss the many challenges facing naval shipbuilding programs in Australia, the United States and the United Kingdom, is Dr Emma Salisbury, Sea Power Research Fellow at the Council on Geostrategy and an Associate Fellow at the Royal Navy Strategic Studies Centre. Emma has conducted significant research focused on the history and concept of the military-industrial complex, and she writes widely on military procurement, naval strategy, and defence innovation in the UK, Europe, and the United States. Through examples of industrial policy, defence strategy, the US Constellation-class frigate program and of course, AUKUS, Duncan and Emma explore the current challenges facing naval shipbuilding and their impact on the industry’s ability to support not only current order books but also deal with wartime attrition before considering various policy, financial and operational remedial measures currently underway. For those interested in a deeper dive, this recent podcast episode from the Centre for Maritime Strategy provides a particularly US perspective: https://centerformaritimestrategy.org/publications/from-keel-to-commissioning-how-to-build-more-ships/ Further interesting content can also be found at the following links: Emma Salisbury: www.emmasalisbury.info Council on Geostrategy: www.geostrategy.org.uk Council on Geostrategy’s online magazine: www.thebroadside.org.uk War On The Rocks podcast: www.warontherocks.com

In this episode of the Saltwater Strategist, ANI councillor and podcast host Duncan MacRae speaks with Angela Gillham, Chief Executive Officer of Maritime Industry Australia Ltd (MIAL) and member of the Australian Government’s 2022 Maritime Strategic Fleet Taskforce. The creation of the Maritime Strategic Fleet Taskforce in October 2022, followed by the delivery of its report in June 2023, was an effort by the Australian Government to address a declining and long-neglected sovereign strategic shipping capability. With a government tender currently underway to identify industry partners for an initial pilot program, Angela and Duncan discuss the Taskforce, its report's recommendations to the Government, and the complex challenges involved in establishing an effective Maritime Strategic Fleet for Australia.

Inaugurated in 2021, The Australian Naval Institute’s Commodore Sam Bateman Book Prize is awarded annually by the ANI to recognise excellence in books making a major contribution to the study and understanding of naval and maritime matters. In this episode of Saltwater Strategists, host Duncan MacRae welcomes Dr Tom Lewis, OAM to the podcast to discuss his winning entry to the 2024 Prize – ‘The Sinking of HMAS Sydney’. ‘The Sinking of HMAS Sydney’ is a book about much more than just the fateful encounter between the HMAS Sydney and armed raider Kormoran in November of 1941. Written for a broad audience, it introduces the reader to the diversity of people, professions and technologies, and complexities involved in sailing and fighting a World War 2-era cruiser before concluding with key research and analysis into HMAS Sydney’s demise, search efforts, and the subsequent answers provided by her discovery in March 2008. In conversation, Duncan and Tom discuss the origins and motivations behind the book, explore the personal experiences described in the opening chapters, and consider the conclusive nature of the eventual discovery of one of the Royal Australian Navy’s most famous fighting ships.

2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the formation of the Australian Naval Institute. In this first episode for 2025, podcast host Duncan MacRae chats with sitting ANI President, Peter Leavy, AM CSM, to discuss the history of the ANI – its formation, key personalities, notable events and activities – and the organisation’s vision for the future. Duncan and Peter also discuss the year ahead and the ways in which the organisation is planning to celebrate its 50 years of contributing to naval and maritime discussion here in Australia, the near region and globally. Peter concludes by providing his priorities as president - to grow membership and engagement - as the ANI looks towards its next 50 years.

In this episode of the Australian Naval Institute’s Saltwater Strategists, host Jen Parker is joined by Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, Chief of the Australian Army, to discuss the Army's strategic focus on optimising for littoral manoeuvre. Lieutenant General Stuart discusses the strategic importance of littoral manoeuvre for Australia as an island nation and why this focus has become imperative now. They explore the Army's future plans for operating effectively in complex maritime environments, highlighting changes in force structure, training, and operational readiness. The conversation also covers new capability developments, such as the integration of amphibious ships and other assets that will enhance the Army's ability to project power and conduct operations in contested littoral zones. This episode offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of how the Australian Army is adapting to emerging threats and positioning itself to play a crucial role in maintaining regional stability through enhanced littoral capabilities.

In this episode of the Australian Naval Institute’s Saltwater Strategists, host Jen Parker is joined by Tom Shugart, a prominent expert in naval and defence strategy, to discuss the evolving power of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). With a distinguished career in the U.S. Navy and deep expertise in analysing naval capabilities, Tom provides a detailed analysis of China's maritime ambitions. Jen and Tom delve into key topics, including the PLAN's modernisation efforts, the strategic role of submarines in China’s maritime strategy, and the growing significance of uncrewed naval platforms. They also explore recent developments, such as the reported sinking of a Chinese nuclear submarine, examining what this incident might reveal about the operational challenges facing the PLAN. Drawing comparisons with the U.S. Navy and allied forces, the discussion highlights both strengths and weaknesses in the PLAN’s operational approaches, and Tom offers insights into where China's naval forces may head in the coming decade, including potential areas of future investment. This episode offers listeners a comprehensive overview of how the PLA Navy is positioning itself as a major maritime power and what this means for broader Indo-Pacific security dynamics.

In this episode of the Australian Naval Institute’s Saltwater Strategists, ANI Councillor Jen Parker and renowned British naval historian Professor Geoffrey Till discuss Professor Till’s book, ‘How to Grow a Navy’. ‘How to Grow a Navy’ was the 2023 winner of the Australian Naval Institute’s Commodore Sam Bateman Book Prize. This episode covers a broad range of issues affecting naval development from the need for a ‘national enterprise’ to support naval growth, to the impacts of personnel training, fleet design, maritime administration and lessons for the Royal Australian Navy.

In this episode of the Australian Naval Institute’s Saltwater Strategists, ANI Councillor Duncan MacRae is joined by Dr Collin Koh Swee Lean, senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, to discuss what the future of Indonesian maritime and naval capability might look like under the forthcoming presidency of Prabowo Subianto. Drawing on insights from Prabowo’s tenure as Indonesian Defence Minister, Duncan and Collin explore what President Subianto’s impact will likely be on the progression of a significant modernisation program for the TNI-AL, the development of Indonesia’s defence industry, the disposition and strategic focus of Indonesian maritime forces, and attitudes towards China, the US, Australia and other regional nations.

In this episode of the Australian Naval Institute’s Saltwater Strategists, ANI Councillor Duncan MacRae welcomes Rob Wilson, Business Development Manager for Systematic in Australia, and Mick Devine, Defence Account Manager for Saab Australia, to discuss the application of open-architecture concepts to naval and defence capability. From Systematic’s extensive history as a global defence information systems provider and Saab’s position as Australia’s sovereign capability partner for naval combat systems, Duncan, Rob, and Mick discuss current examples of open-architecture design in global C2 and situational awareness tools and explore the ongoing opportunities for incorporating open-architecture thinking in the context of Australia’s National Defence Strategy and AUKUS Pillar 2.

In this special episode of the Saltwater Strategists, we bring you the annual Vernon Parker Oration recorded in Canberra on 15 May 2024. Professor Rory Medcalf AM, Head of the National Security College, Australian National University delivers this iteration of the Vernon Parker Oration ‘Putting AUKUS in its place: Australia’s submerged Indo-Pacific strategy’.

In this episode of the Australian Naval Institute’s Saltwater Strategists, ANI Councillor Jen Parker (www.jennifer-parker.com.au) and Open-Source Intelligence expert HI Sutton from ‘Covert Shores’ (www.hisutton.com) discuss Ukraine’s effective sea denial campaign in the Black Sea. Separating fact from fiction, Jen and HI Sutton breakdown the details of the maritime capabilities employed by Ukraine, with a particular focus on their evolutionary use of offensive uncrewed surface vessels at what this may mean for the future of naval warfare.

This is the third Saltwater Strategists episode of three supported by the ASEAN-Australia special summit maritime track organisers. Following a big week in Southeast Asian maritime affairs, from the ASEAN-Australia dialogue held in Melbourne, to further dangerous incidents in the South China Sea this podcast covers it all. ANI Councillor Jen Parker and Dr Charmaine Misalucha-Willoughby a non-resident scholar at Carnegie China, break down many of the maritime security challenges impacting the Philippines and how the Philippines’ allies and partners can assist.

This is our second episode of three supported by the ASEAN-Australia special summit maritime track organisers. In the lead up to the ASEAN-Australia special summit maritime track, ANI Councillor Jen Parker sits down with Dr Asmiati Malik, from the University of Bakrie, Indonesia. In this episode Jen and Asmiati get back to basics discussing the history of ASEAN, the ASEAN outlook on the Indo-Pacific and how ASEAN approaches regional maritime security before delving into Indonesia’s maritime security structure. This podcast is proudly bought to you by the organisers of the ASEAN-Australia special summit.

In the first episode of Series 3 on the Australian Naval Institute’s Saltwater Strategists, the focus is on the year ahead for maritime affairs in Australia. Professor Bec Strating, Director Latrobe Asia and a non-visiting fellow at the Royal Australian Navy’s Sea Power Centre joins Australian Naval Institute Councillor Jen Parker to discuss what are shaping up to be some of the biggest maritime topics of the year, whilst focusing in on the maritime challenges in Southeast Asia Bec and Jen discuss naval diplomacy, soft power, and Australia’s maritime engagement in the region. 2024 represents the 50-year anniversary of Australia becoming a dialogue partner of ASEAN. In the lead up to the ASEAN-Australia special summit maritime track being hosted in Australia in March 2024, Bec and Jen discuss the key maritime summit themes. This podcast is proudly bought to you by the organisers of the ASEAN-Australia special summit.

In this episode of ‘The Saltwater Strategists,’ ANI Councillor Professor Rob McLaughlin takes the helm and interviews the Australian Naval Institute’s Jennifer Parker and VADM (Retd) Peter Jones on their recent Australian Naval Institute Occasional Paper ‘Australian Naval Capabilities in the Littoral: Past, Present and into the Future’. During the episode Rob, Peter and Jen explore the history of RAN littoral operations, current RAN capabilities littoral and littoral definitions and concepts in modern naval operations. Set amongst the back drop of Houthi attacks on merchant shipping in the Red Sea and the successful employment of Ukrainian Uncrewed Surface Vessels in the littorals of the Black Sea, this podcast provides a timely and relevant discussion on the RAN’s littoral pedigree and future challenges.

In this episode of the #saltwaterstrategists, Goldrick Seminar series we hear from Rear Admiral Matt Buckley, Head Nuclear-Powered Submarine Capability on Australian Nuclear-Powered Submarines: Addressing the why? This is a recording Rear Admiral Buckley’s address at the Australian Naval Institute’s Goldrick Conference held in Canberra on 19 October. Rear Admiral Buckley outlines the case for nuclear-powered, conventionally-armed submarines for the Australian strategic context and delves into the cost of ownership of this important capability.

In this episode of the #saltwaterstrategists, Goldrick Seminar series we hear from Professor Bec Strating, Director of La Trobe Asia and and a Professor of Politics and International Relations at La Trobe University on the influence of sea power on Australia’s security. This is a recording Professor Strating’s address at the Australian Naval Institute’s Goldrick Conference held in Canberra on 19 October. Professor Strating provides a detailed account of the impact of sea power on regional and international order, how and why it matters and what middle powers like Australia can do in order to shape a favourable international and regional order.

In this episode of the Saltwater Strategists, Goldrick Seminar series we hear from Associate Professor Michelle Voyer from the Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources & Security (ANCORS) on the topic of sea power and the blue economy. This is a recording Associate Professor Voyer’s address at the Australian Naval Institute’s Goldrick Conference held in Canberra on 19 October 2023.

In this episode of ‘The Saltwater Strategists,’ the focus is on countering Chinese maritime grey zone activities in the Indo-Pacific. ANI Councillor Jen Parker and her guest Lisa Curtis discuss the concept of the ‘Grey Zone’ and its manifestation in the region, highlighting specific instances of Chinese maritime aggression. They delve into United States' perspective on addressing these activities and its Indo-Pacific strategy and what Australia is doing to counter maritime Grey Zone activity. In this episode Jen and Lisa address the challenge of maintaining a balance between deterrence and the risk of escalation. The discussion emphasises the need for proportional measures and highlights the importance of collaboration with allies and like-minded nations.

In this episode of the Saltwater Strategists, Dive into the future of maritime innovation with Commodore Colin Corridan, the Commander of Task Force 59, in an engaging episode of the ANI Saltwater Strategists podcast. From the inception of Task Force 59 to its groundbreaking strides in artificial intelligence and uncrewed systems, this conversation unveils the Navy's cutting-edge transformation. Explore the mesh network's impact on maritime awareness, the fusion of AI in command and control, and the integration of unmanned surface vessels, all while envisioning a Navy that harmonises crewed and uncrewed systems seamlessly. Join us for an illuminating conversation that highlights the Navy's innovative journey, as Commodore Corridan shares his expertise, offering a glimpse into the future of naval operations and uncrewed surface vessels.

In this wide ranging and thought-provoking episode of the Saltwater Strategists, ANI Councillor Sam Fairall-Lee speaks with Michael Shoebridge, CEO of Strategic Analysis Australia and one of Australia’s leading strategic thinkers. Together they explore some of the drivers of China’s rise, and of its emergence as a rich, powerful and expansionist Indo-Pacific power. They discuss some of China’s economic, military and technological strategies, the claim that China is a ‘peaking power’, the nature of its maritime domain, and the implications for Australia’s strategic environment. And they address the claim that America may soon surrender regional primacy to China. They also delve into Australia’s responses to the China Challenge, including the recently released Defence Strategic Review and the current surface force review, Australia’s ability to secure its trade routes, and the role of nuclear deterrence. And Michael shares some advice on how Defence should apply lessons from Ukraine, and apply new technology in its warfighting concepts. Join us for an engrossing discussion with one of Australia’s foremost experts on the China Challenge. It’s a conversation no national security practitioner should miss.

A staple of the Australian Naval Institute (ANI) annual calendar, the Vernon Parker Oration is given by distinguished Australian or international speakers on a strategic or naval theme of the orator’s choosing. The Oration is named after Commodore Vernon Parker who was a founder and inaugural President of the ANI. For the 2023 Vernon Parker Oration the ANI was honoured to have Her Excellency The Honourable Dame Annette King DNZM, New Zealand High Commissioner to Australia as the guest speaker at the Hotel Realm Canberra on 20 June 2023. In her address, Dame Annette King discusses the strength, trials and tribulations of two countries with an extensive history of friendship and partnership.

In this engaging episode of the Saltwater Strategists, ANI Councillor Jen Parker engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Richard Dunley, a Senior Lecturer in history at UNSW Canberra. Together, they explore the outcomes of the recent Australian National Audit Office report on Australia's future frigate, the Hunter class, and delve into several of the report's recommendations. Staying true to the theme of capability, the podcast delves into the fascinating world of AUKUS submarines. Our hosts examine the considerations and the need for balanced public debate surrounding their role and significance. They also discuss the potential impact of adopting uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) on various naval functions, including diplomatic and constabulary tasks, within Australia's maritime strategy. Join us for an insightful episode where Jen and Richard navigate the complexities of naval capabilities and shed light on the implications of key developments. Tune in to the Saltwater Strategists and embark on this captivating exploration!

In this episode of the Saltwater Strategists, ANI Councillor Jen Parker speaks with Dr Bec Strating, a Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations about Australia’s recently released Defence Strategic Review (DSR). Jen and Bec discuss the key takeaways from the DSR and the implications for Australia’s maritime security and the structure of the Royal Australian Navy.

In this episode of the Saltwater Strategists, ANI Councillor Jen Parker speaks with Dr Marcus Hellyer, a highly-regarded defence and security expert. Together, they delve into pressing issues related to the recently announced AUKUS submarine optimal pathway, long-range strike options and impactful projection, future Royal Australian Navy capability challenges and the potential maritime themes of the Defence Strategic Review. Marcus shares his thoughts on the cost of the AUKUS submarine optimal pathway, its potential impact on overall ADF capability, and the risks the Royal Australian Navy faces during its transition in its surface combatant fleet.

In this episode of the Saltwater Strategists, ANI Councillor Jen Parker speaks with Commodore Peter Scott Retired, who previously served as the Head of Profession of the Submarine Arm of the Royal Australian Navy and commanded multiple submarines. Peter shares his remarkable career experiences, including challenges, successes, and failures as a leader. Opening Series 2 of the ANI’s flag ship Podcast series, the Saltwater Strategists, the Podcast discusses naval leadership and the unique qualities required to lead in challenging environments. Peter shares some of his most challenging moments, including a harrowing incident when the submarine he was commanding began to uncontrollably flood whilst dived. Peter also discusses his upcoming book 'Running Deep: A Australian Submarine Life,' sharing some of the key takeaways and the reason for writing it. If you are interested in hearing about what it took to overcome real leadership challenges, or are just interested in a few good submarine stories, this episode is a must-listen. So, tune in to the Saltwater Strategists and learn from Peter's vast experience as a naval leader.

Series 2 of the Saltwater Strategists coming soon. The Australian Naval Institute is launching Series 2 of their podcast, "The Saltwater Strategists," which will explore maritime security and defense issues in the Indo-Pacific region. This series will cover the latest trends and developments in maritime capabilities and security challenges facing the region. The podcast will discuss the impact of the Australian Government's Defence Strategic Review on the Royal Australian Navy and how emerging capabilities are changing maritime operations. The podcast is available monthly.

In the final Saltwater Strategists episode for season 1, ANI Councillor Simon Walstrom talks with Professor John Blaxland from the Australian National University, who is respected for his views and thoughts on domestic and regional defence, security and intelligence issues in the Indo-Pacific region. Simon and John discuss and debate the events or "Zeitenwende" of 2022 and the possible implications for 2023, including the ongoing Ukraine war, recent defence collaborative agreements and the pending Defence Strategic Review publication here in Australia. John offers an insight into what history can and cannot teach us as we enter another year that will no doubt create a series of turning points for the stability of regional and world order. Most importantly the efforts on both sides to prepare for the hypothesised less than 3 year window we are now faced with to counter or deter the Chinese ambition of reclaiming Taiwan.

Following the 10 year anniversary of the Marine Rotational Force’s first deployment to Darwin, ANI Councillor Jen Parker discusses Indo-Pacific security with Brigadier General Joseph Clearfield, Deputy Commander U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific. In the fifth episode of the ANI’s flag ship Podcast series, the Saltwater Strategists, the Podcast discusses the US Marine Corps Forces, Pacific’s footprint and role across the region. An important discussion on the maritime security threats facing the region, and the concepts, capabilities and partnerships the US Marine Corps are employing to address these threats.

In the shadow of the recent US, Pacific Island Country summit ANI Councillor Jen Parker sat down with Professor Stuart Kaye, the Director of the Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security to discuss the law of the sea and strategic competition in the Pacific. In the fourth episode of the ANI’s flag ship Podcast series, the Saltwater Strategists, the Podcast discusses developments in the Pacific, including the relationship between the law of the sea and maritime security. It considers the impacts of climate change and illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing in the Pacific as well as the August 2022 restriction on warships visiting the Solomon islands. Asking the question of how strategic competition is impacting the application of the law of the sea in this vital Pacific region.

In the third episode of the ANI’s flag ship podcast the Saltwater Strategists, ANI Council Board Member Simon Walstrom talks to US Navy RADM (Rtd.) Jeffrey Harley and Dr Paul Mitchell who is the current Professor of Defence studies at the Canadian Forces College. A hugely decorated former RADM in the United States Navy with senior appointments including assignments with the US 7th Fleet and a previous President of the U.S. Naval War College, Admiral Harley offers a perspective on the current Indo-Pacific brinkmanship, along with Dr Mitchell who is the current Professor of Defence Studies at the Canadian Defence College. Both scholars offer a viewpoint from the US and Canada with insightful perspectives, on the current maritime situation that is emerging in the Indo-Pacific.

In the second episode of the ANI’s flag ship Podcast series, the Saltwater Strategists, ANI Councillor Jen Parker talks to Rear Admiral Steve Moorhouse, RN, OBE. Rear Admiral Moorhouse commanded the UK’s first Carrier Strike Group deployment to the Indo-Pacific since Hong Kong was transferred from the UK to China in 1997 and is currently serving as the Royal Navy’s Director Force Generation. In light of the August 22 release of the UK’s Maritime Security strategy, the Podcast discusses the significance of the UK’s March 2021 integrated review of security ‘Global Britain in a Competitive Age’ and the importance of the UKs ‘Indo-Pacific tilt’ for both the UK and the region.

On this inaugural Saltwater Strategists: Pacific Series Podcast ANI Councillor Jen Parker talks to Dr Anthony Bergin, a senior fellow with the Australian Strategic Policy Institute about the maritime security challenges facing the Pacific.

A short summary of what to expect from the Saltwater Strategists: The Pacific Series.