Episodes

  • Moving sustainment into the foreground

    Moving sustainment into the foreground
    Jun 17 2026

    In this episode, Grant McHerron and Neill Morgan, the partner for maritime sustainment at Coras, discuss the importance of sustainment for Defence.

    Our discussion starts by exploring the importance of including sustainment in defence acquisition processes early on. We delve into blind spots such as industry's tendency to treat sustainment as an afterthought, often overlooking risks like poor technical documentation or unclear data rights that stem from this delay and how predictable risks (e.g., obsolescence and funding gaps) which are frequently underestimated due to inadequate upfront planning.

    We conclude with the necessity of proper mobilisation to ensure the right people, access, and resources are present for a smooth transition, and better governance structures in sustainment contracts.

    Links:

    Coras

    https://coras.au/

    This episode has been sponsored by Coras.

    ------------------

    The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).

    The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.

    If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.

    ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.

    For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.

    Hosted by Grant McHerron

    Producer: Steve Visscher

    Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026
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    33 mins
  • Ghost Bat in Berlin, PMB Defence with TKMS, & impacts of the UK Defence Secretary's resignation

    Ghost Bat in Berlin, PMB Defence with TKMS, & impacts of the UK Defence Secretary's resignation
    Jun 14 2026
    In this News Review episode, Grant McHerron, Ewen Levick and Kirra Davey review and discuss some of the news of interest that's occurred recently in the world of Defence.We start the episode discussing Boeing's MQ-28A Ghost Bat which is being displayed at the ILA Berlin Air Show as it's in consideration for Germany's Collaborative Combat Aircraft role. Boeing announced at the event a series of upgraded capabilities for the MQ-28 along with the addition of Diehl Defence and Rohde & Schwarz to the Ghost Bat industry team. From there we move on to the announcement that PMB Defence and TKMS have partnered on the Canadian submarine bid which, if successful, will see PMB supplying batteries for each boat.After those news items, it's over to the UK where the British Defence Secretary has abruptly resigned in protest of the government's failure to spend sufficient funds on Defence. In addition to throwing a spanner in the plans for Richard Marles and Penny Wong who are there for the AUKMIN meetings, this also raises the question of what effect are the billions of dollars Australia is sending to the UK Defence Industry actually having? Also, the UK's Defence spend as % GDP is higher than Australia's yet so if the UK's can be considered insufficient, what are the implications for Australia?We wrap up with a look at the need for a bridging submarine capability that could be done instead of Collins LOTE, given that program is doing less and costing more than planned. With the very real chance of delays, both in receiving Virginia class submarines and production of SSN AUKUS, it is becoming clearer that extending the aging Collins class into the 2040s may not be the best solution.Links:Boeing reveals advanced Ghost Bat capabilitieshttps://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/boeing-reveals-advanced-ghost-bat-capabilitiesBoeing German MQ-28 Ghost Bat team expandedhttps://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/boeing-german-mq-28-ghost-bat-team-expandedPMB Defence and TKMS partner on Canadian submarine bidhttps://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/pmb-defence-and-tkms-partner-on-canadian-submarine-bidBritish Defence Secretary quitshttps://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-06-11/richard-marles-blindsided-after-uk-counterpart-john-healey-quits/106788486https://www.news.com.au/world/europe/uk-politics/british-defence-secretary-resigns-hours-before-aukus-media-event-with-defence-minister-richard-marles/news-story/28f300c3acdd4174cc516e5b6c288a04Submarines sail troubled watershttps://www.australiandefence.com.au/defence/sea/submarines-sail-troubled-watersANAO report on Collins LOTEhttps://www.anao.gov.au/work/performance-audit/defences-collins-class-submarines-life-of-type-extension-planning-and-implementation------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.Hosted by Grant McHerronProducer: Steve VisscherAustralian Defence Magazine - © 2026
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    16 mins
  • Women in Defence: Institutional Change Under Pressure: Progress, Procurement and Power

    Women in Defence: Institutional Change Under Pressure: Progress, Procurement and Power
    Jun 9 2026

    In this episode we present the audio from the recent online event organised by ADM Women in Defence and National Security and the Women in Defence UK organisation. The event commenced with an introduction from the Hon Pat Conroy MP, Minister for Defence Industry and Minister for Pacific Island Affairs.

    The event's MC was Angela Owen OBE, founder of Women in Defence UK, and the discussion panel consisted of Karin Vosmansky, Executive Director at Mack Valves Pty Ltd, Kisa Christensen, Director for Integrated Defence and Autonomy Systems (IDAS) at BAE, Donna Sinnick, Chief Delivery Officer at Babcock International Group, and Pete Burden, CEO of KDC Products.

    The discussion begins with a focus on the collaboration between Australia and the UK defence industries, highlighting initiatives like AUKUS Pillar 2. It explores how companies are adapting to a rapidly changing strategic environment characterised by Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA). It also covers Nova Systems' evolution from test and evaluation into broader mission integration and assurance.

    We get an insight into the ongoing challenge of attracting and retaining women in defence roles, particularly engineering. Panelists stress the need to start recruitment early, combat stereotypes, enhance work-life balance flexibility, and foster a supportive culture within both Defence and industry partners like Babcock International Group, who actively promote female representation on boards and executive committees. The panel also touches upon leveraging dual-use technology for national resilience beyond defence alone and pathways into careers via secondments or diverse roles.

    Links:

    ADM's Women in Defence and National Security

    https://admwomenindefencenetwork.com.au/

    Women in Defence UK:

    https://www.womenindefenceuk.com/

    https://www.womenindefenceuk.com/charter

    Babcock’s “Next Line of Defence” report and their SME Charter:

    https://www.babcockinternational.com/our-perspectives/the-next-line-of-defence-unlocking-sme-potential-in-uk-defence-from-policy-to-practice/

    ------------------

    The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).

    The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.

    If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.

    ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.

    For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.

    Hosted by Grant McHerron

    Producer: Steve Visscher

    Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026
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    54 mins
  • Interviews from the Indian Ocean Defence and Security 2026 event

    Interviews from the Indian Ocean Defence and Security 2026 event
    Jun 3 2026
    This episode is a compilation of interviews we recorded at the Indian Ocean Defence and Security 2026 event held in Perth in May. During the show, Kirra and Grant were able to catch up with Senator James Paterson, then Grant recorded a number of interviews with Ocius, Greenroom Robotics, Hyperion, Ausco Group, GlenAir, and Quantum Systems Australia. We hope you enjoy this compilation of content from IODS 2026.=—-=Senator James Paterson confirms his advocacy for AUKUS and recommends that a supplementary capability be established in place of Collins LOTE to bridge the gap to obtaining nuclear submarines. He also notes his concerns about transparency within the Integrated Investment Plan (IIP), and contrasting government versus private finance roles in sustaining critical infrastructure. He also discusses the proposed retirement of the C-27J Spartan aircraft and calls for thorough evaluation before retiring established non-combat capabilities.=—-=We then explore Robert Dane's review of Bluebottle technology development, the company's collaboration with the RAN and their 24/7 deployment from Darwin monitoring northern approaches. We also discuss renewable energy benefits, including minimal mobilization costs due to rechargeable batteries at sea, current vessel deployments averaging two and a half months each, and future developments for Ocius' autonomous systems capabilities.=—-=Next up, we talk with Harry Hubbert of Greenroom Robotics to discuss the company's rapid scaling across multiple countries, collaborations with SMEs like Hyperion Systems, and their focus on providing intelligence for 3D printed vessels using containerized tech to reduce costs and supply chain risks. We then look at addressing vulnerabilities being raised by the current Hormuz situation through the addition of autonomous capabilities to existing vessels for logistics support before discussing the new people who have joined the company and contemplating all that may be announced before or at Land Forces later this year.=—-=Following on from Greenroom, we talk with Josh Wigley from Hyperion about their Astra platform of boats that are built using additive manufacturing and including Greenroom Robotics' autonomy systems. Josh outlines the comapny's three-pillar approach (machines, products, feedstock) and how they are leveraging 3D printing to rapidly build flexible boats addressing supply chain needs in Australia via local material recycling and micro-factory deployment. We consider the benefits HDPE material provides for boat hulls compared to traditional materials, leading to a discussion of Hyperion's own materials testing lab for certification (AMSA) and how the company is actively raising capital.=—-=Keeping to the Maritime focus, Alex Murphy outlines his role at Ausco Group and the organisation's maritime autonomous systems, exploring their background (Ausco Marine & Products), key products like Gannett Dive LRX launch/recovery system, AMAS intelligent buoy for surface-based ISR and seabed sensors, sea-floor battery systems enabling underwater operation without surface power, and assessing the capabilities of these technologies in defence.=—-=Next up, we talk with Greg Cameron about Glenair's role in defence/aerospace connectors, their high-reliability expertise, and their engineering philosophy driving reliability across diverse applications like military vehicles and soldier kits. Specific product examples are discussed including power/data hubs and vehicle-mounted systems, before we move on to ensuring performance standards via an independent test lab, and look at future directions and their Australian based team.=—-=We wrap the episode chatting with Sam Jessep of Quantum Systems Australia about the company's background, how the Ukrainian war has driven growth, and its focus on governmental applications. We discuss their range of UAS aircraft including the Vector, the tail-sitting Twister, the Reliant, and also their Mosaic software for sensor fusion.Links:Indian Ocean Defence & Security Conference & Exhibitionhttps://iods.com.au/Senator James Patersonhttps://www.senatorpaterson.com.au/Ocius' Bluebottle platformhttps://www.ocius.com.au/usv/#overviewGreenroom Roboticshttps://greenroomrobotics.com/Hyperion Systemshttps://www.hyperionsystems.com.au/Ausco Grouphttps://auscogroup.com.au/GlenAirhttps://www.glenair.com/Quantum Systems Australiahttps://quantum-systems.com/au/------------------The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.ADM Podcasts are a blend of ...
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    57 mins
  • Saronic Technologies: Redefining Maritime Superiority with Autonomous Surface Vessels

    Saronic Technologies: Redefining Maritime Superiority with Autonomous Surface Vessels
    May 26 2026

    In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Dino Mavrookas, the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Saronic Technologies about its approach to autonomous surface vessels.

    We begin our discussion by getting into Dino’s background as a former US Navy SEAL, evaluating the rapid growth in shipbuilding in China, and how Saronic Technologies is using a vertically integrated approach in their design and manufacturing. We review its flagship vessel models, the rapid uptake of contracts since the company was launched in 2022, and its ability to upscale across multiple services.

    We wrap up by looking at Saronic’s goal to grow its Australian presence, the role autonomous vessels will play in deterrence, and the significant growth that is anticipated for the technology.

    Links:

    Saronic Technologies:

    https://www.saronic.com/

    This episode has been sponsored by Saronic Technologies.

    ------------------

    The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).

    The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.

    If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.

    ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.

    For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.

    Hosted by Grant McHerron

    Producer: Steve Visscher

    Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026
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    37 mins
  • Hormuz remains closed & the Collins LOTE's scope changes again

    Hormuz remains closed & the Collins LOTE's scope changes again
    May 24 2026

    In this News Review episode, Grant McHerron, Ewen Levick and Kirra Davey review and discuss some of the news of interest that's occurred recently in the world of Defence.

    We start by welcoming back Ewen and noting that in the eight weeks or so that he's been away the Strait of Hormuz remains closed with the US Navy unable to re-open it. We look at what this means for military engagements going forward, and the issues associated with keeping the very important sea lanes open in the straits to our North. The Middle East situation and the recent Venezuelan raid demonstrate that the US military is tactically incredible and practically unbeatable, but it doesn't seem to have the political force required to win the war overall. We finish the Hormuz review by observing that many apabilities that were previously being demonstrated and tested are now combat proven.

    Next up, Kirra attended the recent Axon Tech Summit in Sydney which focused on the use of rones and counter-UAS systems for public safety, while Grant attended the opening of Corvus Technology Solutions' new factory in Melbourne, catching up with Minister Collin Brooks who has now taken on the role of Victoria's first Defence Industry Minister. So far it seems that WA, SA & VIC are the states with ministerial portfolios for Defence.

    Sentinel Boats have sold their 830R-SPOL to the ADF's Special Operations Forces, which is great to see them achieve a military sale in Australia in addition to their contact with the NZDF. Kirra recounts her experience with the 830R during a demo on Sydney Harbour prior to IndoPac 2026.

    We wrap the episode by looking at the Collins Class submarine Life Of Type Extension program's scope changing yet again, with $11 billion allocated towards keeping the boats operational into the 2040s. Given they were delivered in the 90s and due to be retired in the 20s, this begs the question of whether they can be kept operational and effective for another 20 years. This highlights the lack of "Plan B" for AUKUS and perhaps it's time for some political leadership to demand a bridging capability, much as occurred when the Super Hornets were ordered to bridge the gap to the RAAF's F-35s arriving and becoming operational.

    Links:

    Sentinel Boats wins Special Operations RHIB contract

    https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/sentinel-boats-wins-special-operations-rhib-contract

    Collins receives life of type extension

    https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/collins-receives-life-of-type-extension

    ------------------

    The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).

    The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.

    If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.

    ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.

    For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.

    Hosted by Grant McHerron

    Producer: Steve Visscher

    Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026
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    22 mins
  • Building sovereign services in support of the National Defence Strategy

    Building sovereign services in support of the National Defence Strategy
    May 19 2026

    In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Dean Rosenfield, CEO of Nova Systems, about the company’s provision of sovereign services in support of the National Defence Strategy (NDS).

    Our discussion gives us an insight into Dean’s experience holding the role of CEO for the last two years, how Nova in collaboration with SMEs across all domains is growing into a sovereign prime, and how this ensures Defence can manage risk effectively throughout design to sustainment. We explore Nova's significant contributions to Australia's self-reliance, its ability to deliver interoperability during crises, and enhance communication between agencies.

    We wrap up by reviewing how building sovereign operational readiness strengthens Australia's position against emerging threats like supply chain disruption or geopolitical instability.

    Links:

    Nova Systems

    www.novasystems.com/au

    This episode has been sponsored by Nova Systems.

    ------------------

    The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).

    The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.

    If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.

    ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.

    For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.

    Hosted by Grant McHerron

    Producer: Steve Visscher

    Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026
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    20 mins
  • Arkeus' Hyperspectral AI Sensing Systems expand further into Australia and the USA

    Arkeus' Hyperspectral AI Sensing Systems expand further into Australia and the USA
    May 15 2026

    For this episode, Grant McHerron went to Arkeus' office in Melbourne to meet with Simon Owen, the company's co-founder and CEO. Their discussion covers Arkeus, their technology, their contracts here and abroad, and their latest news regarding funding and expansion.

    We start with a discussion of the inspiration behind Arkeus and the company's history to date, which then leads into a description of their "Hyperspectral optical radar systems," their method of operation, their size, weight and power, and the drones the systems are currently operating with. We also learn how much of these systems is being produced in Australia versus sourced from overseas and the level of attention Arkeus has given to component sourcing and tracing.

    The conversation then moves on to Arkeus' engagement with the Australian Army, their contracts with the United States Department of War, and their other clients and markets. Simon gives us an overview of the efforts taken to break into the US market, which then leads to how the company has been funded to date.

    We wrap with the news of Arkeus' latest funding round and the company's plans for expansion in Australia and the USA, including the announcement today of a new advanced manufacturing capability in Queensland.

    Links:

    Arkeus: https://arkeus.com

    The image used for this episode's artwork was supplied by Insitu Pacific (https://insitupacific.com.au/)

    ------------------

    The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title (www.australiandefence.com.au).

    The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.

    If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via defmag@yaffa.com.au to get involved.

    ADM Podcasts are a blend of public interest journalism and sponsored content with a focus on the Defence community. Conversations with leaders and thinkers from a range of backgrounds including academia, Defence, industry, and associations. ADM Podcasts aims to educate, explain and explore some of the bigger issues around Defence.

    For sponsored content opportunities, please contact ADM Associate Publisher Kylie Leonard and/or National Sales Manager Michael Flanagan.

    Hosted by Grant McHerron

    Producer: Steve Visscher

    Australian Defence Magazine - © 2026
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    34 mins