Defence Connect Podcast

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

This week on Cyber Uncut, David Hollingworth and Bethany Alvaro talk about how Australia is lagging in AI adoption, the grey areas of facial recognition and surveillance, the alarming youX data breach, and Hollingworth's visit to Montreal to chat about physical security with Genetec. The pair kick off with news from Deloitte regarding an alarming slowdown in AI adoption across Australian enterprises, while Bethany picks apart her concerns over surveillance technologies and why facial recognition may well have a place in Australian stores. This is followed by Hollingworth talking about a recent trip to Montreal, where he was a guest of physical security firm Genetec. He got to see its impressive technology in action and sat down with the company's principal security architect and manager, Mathieu Chevalier, on the intersection of physical and cyber security. Plus, the pair go into the details of a data breach impacting hundreds of thousands of Australians after a hacker penetrated the network of Aussie fintech outfit youX, and what the breach means for the company's customers. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

How does a law student's "gap year" in recruitment turn into a 17-year career leading operations in the defence sector? In this episode, Amelia De Angelis, chief operating officer of Kinexus, shares her journey from industry outsider to co-founding The Future Through Collaboration, a program that has mentored over 600 women. Amelia discusses the importance of "embracing your awkward self" and why the myth of "work-life balance" should be replaced by her "glass balls and bouncy balls" philosophy – learning which priorities are fragile and which are OK to drop. From navigating the steep learning curve of defence to coaching community basketball, Amelia explains how a simple "10 seconds of courage" can define a career and create a lasting ripple effect of leadership. The Progress Report. New voices. Real stories. Big shifts. Enjoy the podcast, The Progress Report team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, Stephen Kuper is joined by Robert Dougherty and Bethany Alvaro to unpack major developments in defence innovation, autonomous air combat and shifting alliance dynamics. The discussion begins with the federal government's proposed $500 million co-investment fund aimed at accelerating defence technologies, including artificial intelligence, cyber security, autonomous systems, electronic warfare and quantum capabilities. Attention then turns to the US Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, where Shield AI will integrate its Hivemind autonomy software into Anduril Industries' Fury aircraft. Regionally, the team assesses Indonesia's plan to contribute troops to a Gaza stabilisation force under diplomatic efforts led by President Donald Trump, and what it could mean for Australia's own policy settings. They also discuss confirmation that Papua New Guinea military personnel will receive Australian Combat Assault Rifles made by Thales Australia. The episode concludes with analysis of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's Munich Security Conference speech on allied burden-sharing, before finishing on a lighter note with new military working dog facilities at RAAF Base Tindal. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by journalist Bethany Alvaro to unpack a week spanning government conflict of interest concerns, Defence space capability updates and anti-Israel protests in Sydney. The discussion opens on the scrutiny surrounding Paul Brereton, commissioner of the National Anti-Corruption Commission, and questions over the disclosure of his advisory work with the Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force on Afghanistan matters, raising conflict of interest concerns and political criticism. Attention then turns to the ADF's new space operations roles, highlighting the growing importance of satellite communications, cyber capabilities and emerging domains in future force structure. The team also examines the US Department of Defense decision to cut ties with Harvard University from 2026–27, plus the ideological and national security concerns, alongside broader implications for civil–military academic partnerships. Down Under, the pair revisits continuing coverage of the recent Defence Estate Audit report and concerns from the Returned & Services League Australia and Australian Army cadet organisations over the proposed sale of historic sites. The episode concludes with an analysis of protests in Sydney following the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog and allegations of excessive from the NSW Police Force. Enjoy the podcast The Defence Connect team

This week on Cyber Uncut, David Hollingworth and Daniel Croft discuss more trouble for Elon Musk's AI empire, the rise of a very active new ransomware group that may not be what it seems, and an alarming discovery while investigating the latest tranche of Jeffrey Epstein documents. The pair kick off with news that French police have raided the offices of X, while Aussie activists call on app stores to ban the Grok AI chatbot over its sharing of sexual abuse material. Croft also looks into Moltbook, the new social media platform for AI agents. In cyber security news, scammers are targeting property investors, with millions of dollars at stake. Other scammers are posing as Australian Federal Police officers to trick victims out of their cryptocurrency, and the brand new 0APT ransomware group has claimed a massive hack of an Australian healthcare provider – but have they really? Finally, Hollingworth and Croft discover something truly strange about just why their names show up in – of all places – the Epstein files. Let's just say the FBI are regular readers of Cyber Daily. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

In this episode of The Progress Report, Tash Taylor sits down with Gabby Costigan, a powerhouse leader in the global defence sector and a pioneer for women in STEM. From her early days in the Australian Defence Force to becoming the first female CEO of BAE Systems Australia, Gabby's journey is a masterclass in resilience, career pivoting and leading with purpose. Beyond the boardroom, Gabby discusses the vital role of mentorship and her deep-rooted passion for advocating for defence families, offering invaluable advice for anyone looking to lead with resilience and purpose. The Progress Report. New voices. Real stories. Big shifts. Enjoy the podcast, The Progress Report team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, Stephen Kuper is joined by Robert Dougherty and Bethany Alvaro to unpack recent news of Australian industry developments, humanitarian assistance, US domestic unrest and the shifting foundations of global power. The discussion opens with Australian defence industry news, including Ferra Engineering's latest agreement with Boeing to support delivery of the High Altitude Anti-Submarine Warfare Weapon Capability for the P-8A Poseidon fleet, reinforcing Australia's role within global defence supply chains. Attention then turns to EOS Defence Systems and its evolving international strategy amid concerns over limited domestic support for counter-uncrewed aerial system capabilities, with analysis of the company's growing footprint in Europe and the Middle East through a new partnership with Milrem Robotics. The team also examines the Defence Estate audit, which has confirmed the partial or full divestment of 68 defence sites nationwide. Key locations discussed include Victoria Barracks in Sydney, HMAS Penguin, RAAF Base Williams at Laverton, and several sites across Western Australia and South Australia, alongside debate over reinvestment priorities and future force structure. The panel weighs in too on Australia's announcement of an additional $50 million in aid to Afghanistan, bringing total assistance since 2021 to $310 million. The conversation then shifts to the United States, where recent unrest linked to immigration enforcement has reignited debate around the Insurrection Act, martial law and the limits of federal authority. The team unpacks constitutional constraints, historical usage, media freedom concerns and the potential political ramifications ahead of upcoming US elections. The episode concludes with a broader strategic discussion on what it means to be a "serious middle power" in an era of intensifying competition. The panel questions whether Australia's economic resilience, industrial base, military capability and capacity for power projection are sufficient to sustain its self-image, particularly as the rules-based global order continues to erode. Enjoy the podcast The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Contested Ground podcast, Steve Kuper and Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson are joined by Dr Malcolm Davis, Australian Strategic Policy Institute defence strategy and capability senior analyst, to unpack the strategic shockwaves emerging from the United States' 2026 National Defense Strategy. The trio examine what Washington's shift towards an offshore balancing posture means for Australia, including renewed pressure to lift defence spending, the implications of deterrence by denial along the first island chain, and the risks of assuming unconditional US support in a rapidly deteriorating Indo-Pacific security environment. They also explore the growing assertiveness of China, the fine line between stabilisation and accommodation, and whether Australia is approaching a modern-day version of World War II's "1939 tipping point moment" that demands greater self-reliance, expanded defence industrial capacity, and difficult conversations with the Australian public. Finally, the discussion turns to force structure, autonomous systems, guided weapons, and the hard choices facing government as Australia seeks to balance immediate readiness, AUKUS, and long-term strategic resilience in an era of uncertainty. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

This week on Cyber Uncut, David Hollingworth and Bethany Alvaro discuss the murky world of employee data theft, look at a pair of ransomware attacks – one local, one a touch further afield – and take a look at the new cyber security strategy announced by the NSW government. The podcast opens with research that suggests the new year, and January in particular, is a prime time for employees to make off with important business data, either by accident or accidentally on purpose. In cyber security news, World Leaks has taken responsibility for hacking athletics giant Nike, while the Anubis operation has shared passports and legal documents it stole from a New Zealand law firm. Hollingworth also breaks down a cyber security tabletop exercise he recently took part in, and why they are an essential part of any organisation's cyber resilience strategy. Finally, the eSafety Commissioner is asking people to dob in kids getting around the social media ban, while the pair share some insights from the experts for World Data Privacy Day. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, the entire team of Stephen Kuper, Robert Dougherty and Bethany Alvaro examines current news surrounding Australia's changing strategic environment: from diplomacy and armoured warfare to intelligence capability to the future of the rules-based global order. The episode opens with the appointment of Greg Moriarty as Australia's next ambassador to the United States. The former defence secretary has drawn broad bipartisan support, while opinions differ on the impact of outgoing Australian ambassador to US and former prime minister Kevin Rudd. Attention then turns to the unveiling of the M1E3 Abrams prototype, signalling the US Army's next step in main battle tank evolution and a definitive link to the Australian defence industry. The discussion shifts to the recent speech from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who has publicly questioned the very existence of a post-war rules-based order. The team also deliberates on the demographic and economic trends rapidly shifting influence towards populous regional states such as Indonesia and India, raising the prospect that Australia may soon face strategic pressure from neighbours it once viewed as junior partners. Next, UK's launch of a fast-tracked undergraduate degree in drone engineering is highlighted as a response to lessons from Ukraine, while the team questions whether Australia risks falling behind. The episode concludes with final confirmation that the Royal Australian Air Force has received its first MC-55A Peregrine intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and electronic warfare aircraft. 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 fallout from the US' arrest of Nicolas Maduro, America's claims to Greenland, and the potential for regime change in Iran. The trio unpack the success and complexities of the US' raid in Venezuela and the intricacies surrounding the mission, the fallout of the "Donroe Doctrine" in action, and its relations intersecting with the 2025 US National Security Strategy's emphasis on the western hemisphere. They also discuss the mounting US pressure over Greenland and what is driving US interest in the island nation, which presents a significant risk of rupturing NATO at a time of mounting geopolitical upheaval. Finally, they also discuss the US military build-up surrounding Iran and the potential for decapitation strikes against the Iranian regime, seemingly backed by the ousted shah and implications for broader global security.

In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, host Robert Dougherty is joined by Petar Bielovich, general manager of data and analytics at Atturra, to discuss the evolving role of preparedness, decision intelligence, and sovereign capability within Australia's national security strategy. As part of this in-depth conversation, the pair discuss a range of subjects, including: The growing importance of preparedness in Australian defence strategy and how it differs from traditional concepts of readiness. How data analytics and artificial intelligence can deliver a decision advantage across Defence and improve preparedness outcomes. The role of industry in building national resilience, sovereign capability, and supporting the total workforce system. The impact of reducing reliance on consultants and contractors, and finding the right balance to build sustainable capability. How recent Defence reforms, consolidation efforts and delivery agencies may provide clearer signals and improved engagement for industry. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect Spotlight team

This week on Cyber Uncut, David Hollingworth and Daniel Croft are still talking about Grok's nudity woes, OpenAI's turn to ads, the potential compromise of a major rack hardware maker, and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner's calls for more government transparency. The pair kick things off once again with Grok and its struggles in producing sexual abuse material and OpenAI's move to introduce ads into ChatGPT. In cyber security news, the Everest ransomware group claims to have stolen vital hardware data from ASRock Rack, with the potential for some serious downstream impacts and further cyber attacks. Plus, hackers who have been named and in court, and 2025 in cryptocurrency crime. And finally, some good news – search engine DuckDuckGo says NO to AI, and the OAIC looks to boost government transparency around automated decision making. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

Imagine being told at the start of your aviation career that women simply don't fly jets. Decades later, Sue-anne Munckton is the CEO of the Civil Aviation Academy Australasia and director/founder of Sky Careers and a powerhouse advocate for Australia's aviation future. In this episode, Tash Taylor sits down with the recent Australian Aviation Awards Excellence Award winner to discuss her 35-year journey from student pilot to industry leader. Sue-anne reveals why we must teach children by age 10 to break down career barriers and shape their sphere of influence. Her company, Sky Careers, is opening doors to 30,000+ industry roles – from drone-piloted "SnotBots" that collect whale snot to maritime logistics. The Progress Report. New voices. Real stories. Big shifts. Enjoy the podcast, The Progress Report team

In this episode of the Contested Ground Podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant, Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson, and Steve Kuper discuss the Australian government's legislative efforts to combat anti-Semitism, hatred, and violent extremism in Australia. The trio unpack the legislative proposal and political considerations that have shaped the Albanese government's Combating Anti-Semitism, Hate and Extremism Bill 2026, developed in the aftermath of the terrorist shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach, Sydney, which resulted in at least 15 deaths and over 40 injuries on 14 December 2025. The trio also discuss the fine line between balancing national security, freedom, protesting and religious liberties as a democracy and the different requests identified by the opposition, Greens and other minor parties ahead of the debate. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground Team

This week, David Hollingworth and Daniel Croft are joined by HR Leader's Carlos Tse to talk about AI in the workplace. We chat about Grok's ongoing issues with sexually abusive content, the Pentagon's move to embrace the platform regardless, and a hack that has compromised the data of every school in Victoria. The podcast kicks off with a discussion on a new partnership between the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) and Microsoft to keep AI in the workplace human-centric, and the US Department of Defence betting hard on Grok to increase its warfighting capacity. In cyber security news, an unknown threat actor has compromised Victoria's Department of Education, impacting every school in the state. Hollingworth and Croft talk about the Everest hacking group's Big Game Hunting tactics and its targeting of a pair of major carmakers. The pair wrap things up with a discussion of Bandcamp's move to ban AI from its platform, and talk about this year's Australian Cyber Awards – nominations are now open, so get yours in! Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Robert Dougherty is joined by Cesar Alvarez, lecturer at Charles Sturt University on terrorism and security studies, to unpack the security, geopolitical and cartel criminal dynamics surrounding recent US military operations in Venezuela. Alvarez worked for Canberra-based national security think tank Australian Strategic Policy Institute and provided technical advice to the Terrorism Prevention Branch of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. He has also served as a consultant and adviser to the Counter-Narcotics Directorate and the Doctrine and Planning Office of the National Police of Colombia. He holds a master of policing, intelligence and counter-terrorism with a degree of master of international security studies from Macquarie University. He also holds a bachelor's degree of government and international relations from Externado University of Colombia. Alvarez is the founder and director of public diplomacy organisation Australia-Colombia Dialogue. During the podcast, the pair discuss a range of topics, including: An overview of Venezuela's evolution into a key hub for transnational organised crime and drug trafficking. The role of the Cartel de los Soles and the deep entanglement between criminal networks and the Venezuelan state. Historical shifts in Latin America's criminal landscape following the fall of the Medellín Cartel, led by Pablo Escobar, and the Cali Cartel, run by the Rodríguez Orejuela brothers. The impact of Colombian coca cultivation, peace processes with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, and unintended consequences of counter-narcotics policy. The strategic, psychological and geopolitical implications of the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Likely internal power struggles within criminal organisations following Maduro's removal. The future of drug trafficking routes across Colombia, Venezuela and global markets, including Europe and Australia. Whether US actions in Venezuela set a precedent for other authoritarian leaders in Latin America. The potential implications for countries such as Cuba, Nicaragua and Colombia amid shifting regional politics. How the most recent changes in US policy may reshape Latin American security dynamics in the coming years. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Cyber Uncut podcast, Daniel Croft and Bethany Alvaro are joined by Australian Aviation's Jake Nelson to discuss AI, before talking about local hacks, NSW Health, and Trump alluding to the use of cyber warfare in Venezuela. Croft, Alvaro, and Nelson first discuss Qantas and its shift towards AI implementation in 2026. The trio then discuss Grok and the dangers of the new "edit image" button that has led to the creation of deepfake child sexual abuse material. Croft and Alvaro then discuss the Australian band Royel Otis and a failed request by the guitarist to obtain the anonymous details of users he said were defaming him. Finally, the two discuss Trump and his hinting that cyber warfare may have been used in the strikes on Venezuela to shut off the lights and create pathways in for US forces. Enjoy the episode, The Cyber Uncut team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Robert Dougherty is joined by Salvatore R Mercogliano PhD, Campbell University professor of history in North Carolina and What's Going on With Shipping host, as they discuss US operations in Venezuela, the capture of leader Nicolás Maduro and international maritime implications for "dark fleet" shipping. Mercogliano, a former merchant mariner, holds degrees in military and naval history, maritime history and nautical archaeology, and marine transportation. He previously authored the 2017 book Fourth arm of defense: Sealift and maritime logistics in the Vietnam War. The pair discuss a range of topics, including: An overview of "dark fleet" or "shadow ships" operating outside the rule of law to avoid international sanctions. Implications on global shipping following US operations and the capture of commercial shipping vessels near Venezuela. Historical precedent for the capture of "dark fleet" ships as well as the flight of oil tankers and commercial maritime vessels from Venezuela after US military operations. "Dark fleet" ships operating in other regions, such as the Indo-Pacific, where trade abuses and maritime smuggling activities have previously been linked to North Korea and other actors. Advances being made in military technology mounted on commercial shipping, such as containerised missile systems, containerised drone systems and close-in support weapon systems. The value of these systems in a wartime or blockade settings, with emphasis on the possible invasion of Taiwan by the People's Liberation Army Navy in the South China Sea. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Contested Ground podcast, co-host Steve Kuper and returning co-host Liam Garman unpack the fallout of the American special forces raid in Venezuela. The pair also discuss the broader global ramifications emerging as a result of the American direct action in Latin America, including:  The real motivations behind America's raid and why simple claims of regime change or pursuit of oil may not be as clear-cut as some would have us believe. Ongoing concerns about security and stability in the Middle East following revelations of significant strategic military deployments from the US to Europe and the region.  The sociopolitical challenges facing Australia and allied nations as protests unfold in cities across the world, with political discourse shifting from the Middle East to Venezuela and claims of American imperialism. The ramifications of fraying, sectarian political debates and echo chambers that undermine social cohesion and national stability. Enjoy the podcast,  The Contested Ground team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight Podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by former commander of US Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral (Ret'd) Phil Davidson, as they discuss the allied efforts to confront a contested Indo-Pacific. As part of this special conversation, the pair discuss a range of subjects, including: The shifting power dynamics emerging across the region and the implications associated with the return of great-power competition. Building and enhancing avenues for interoperability and interchangeability across regional allies in order to build collective deterrence. The importance of building a robust, adaptable and resilient allied integrated air and missile defence network across the region to help underpin regional security. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect Spotlight team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Robert Dougherty is joined by the director of the Australian Army's Robotic and Autonomous Systems Implementation and Coordination Office, Lieutenant Colonel Dr Adam J Hepworth, as they discuss emerging artificial intelligence and robotics implications for the Australian Army. LTCOL Hepworth leads the advancement of emerging technology, including robotics, autonomous systems, AI and autonomy for the Australian Army. He holds a bachelor of science in mathematics from the University of NSW, a master of logistics and supply chain management from the University of South Australia, a graduate diploma in scientific computation and a master of science in operations research from the United States Naval Postgraduate School, and a doctor of philosophy in computer science from the University of NSW. He is a visiting fellow at the University of NSW and an expert member of the Global Commission for Responsible AI in the Military. The pair discuss a range of topics, including: An outline of LTCOL Hepworth's responsibilities as director of the Australian Army's Robotic and Autonomous Systems Implementation and Coordination Office. An invitation to join the Expert Advisory Group for the Global Commission on Responsible AI in the Military Domain, on behalf of the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs. A general overview of responsible military AI and irresponsible AI, as well as the benefits achieved with military AI use and challenges from that use, that Australia needs to be aware of. Short and long-term recommendations for governance and regulation of artificial intelligence in the military domain. Work on responsible artificial intelligence in the military domain being completed in Australia. The importance of keeping a human in the loop for AI-based decision making and the evolution of new military technology into the future. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Bethany Alvaro is joined by Jennifer Parker, one of Australia's leading voices on maritime security, to examine the rapidly evolving strategic environment in the Indo-Pacific and what this means for Australia's naval capability, national preparedness and civilian resilience. With more than two decades of service as a warfare officer in the Royal Australian Navy, Parker now serves as an expert associate at the Australian National University's National Security College and works across a number of think tanks and universities, bringing both operational and strategic insight to the discussion. The pair discuss: Recent Chinese naval activity and what Australia should take from it. Naval preparedness in relation to capability, workforce and time. Civilian readiness and if fighting from Australia is plausible. The importance of maritime security for Australia and the civilian way of life. The work to better connect Defence, industry and the public. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

This week, for the last Cyber Uncut of 2025, David Hollingworth and Daniel Croft talk about Grok's spreading of misinformation regarding the tragic Bondi terror attack, OpenAI's admission of "high cyber risk", the re-emergence of ShinyHunters with a string of possible extortion attempts, ransomware attacks on medical centres, and important tips for using public Wi-Fi over the holidays. The pair kick things off with reports of how Grok utterly failed to deliver accurate information regarding the 14 December shootings targeting the Jewish community in Sydney. The chatbot utterly failed to meet the moment, leading to multiple instances of incorrect information circulating on X. In cyber security news, ShinyHunters is engaging in a string of extortion attempts that may – or may not be – linked to its breach of data analytics firm Mixpanel. It's a bit of a ride and a fascinating example of how quickly things can change in the cyber crime landscape. Plus, two more Aussie healthcare centres fall victim to ransomware attacks. And finally, some helpful travel advice, a wrap-up of our big moments from 2025, and some things to look forward to in 2026. See you next year The Cyber Uncut team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Robert Dougherty is joined by Dr Levi West, an Australian National University Research Fellow (radicalisation, extremism, terrorism) and former director of terrorism studies at the Australian Graduate School of Policing and Security. The pair take an in-depth look at the national security and counterterrorism aspects of the 2025 Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney. The terrorist attack targeted Jewish members of the public attending a Hanukkah (Jewish festival of lights) event on Sydney's Bondi Beach. Fifteen people, including a 10-year-old girl, two rabbis and a Holocaust survivor, were killed in the attack. Two police officers were shot and injured. The two Islamic State-aligned gunmen were identified by NSW Police as father and son, Sajid Akram, 50 (deceased), and Naveed Akram, 24 (critically injured). The pair discuss a range of topics, including: An initial in-depth assessment of the attack, the police and public response. The actions and bravery of fruit shop owner Ahmed al Ahmed, who disarmed one of the gunmen and seized his weapon before laying down the gun during the incident. A reactive federal and state government pledge to tighten firearms legislation in the wake of the incident. Media reports that both terrorists travelled to the Philippines prior to the incident, possibly to undertake firearms training or engage in a final period of recreation. How the shooting relates to anti-Jewish incidents occurring in Australia since the October 7 attacks in Israel during 2023. What happens next for Australia, analysis of the incident, psychological impact, possible changes in government policy and the likelihood of reprisals or imitative violence. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Andy Keough, managing director at Saab Australia, and Dean Rosenfield, CEO of Nova Systems. The conversation focuses on the collaboration between Saab and Nova Systems in the multi-domain command, control, communications and computers (C4) area, emphasising the need for sovereign capabilities in Australia due to rapidly changing technology and geopolitical challenges. Both companies have a long history of working together, with Saab focusing on command and control systems and Nova Systems on operational test and evaluation and systems engineering. The discussion covers the importance of systems integration, test and evaluation, and digital engineering in the increasingly software-based system-of-systems environment, highlighting the role of investing in people and embracing technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning. Key challenges for the defence industry include security concerns with new technologies like AI and the need for commercial frameworks that support innovation, experimentation and a higher acceptance of risk from Defence. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this solemn 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 Bondi Beach terror attack. The trio discuss the terrorist shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach, Sydney, which resulted in at least 15 deaths and over 40 injuries. They also tackle the implications of the targeted anti-Semitic attack on Australia's intelligence and law enforcement community. The conversation then shifts to the beginning of the broader national conversations that will now be taking place in Canberra and capital cities around the nation, as the nation and Sydney grieve the loss of national innocence. We would also like to pass on our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers to those impacted by the tragic events. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

This episode discusses the US Department of War's AI "Manifest Destiny", hackers going hard on Aussie victims, and Australia bringing in its brand new social media ban. Hosts David Hollingworth and Daniel Croft kick things off with artificial intelligence, with CommBank trialling a new DevOps agent and the Pentagon launching its new GenAI.mil platform to "dominate" its adversaries. The pair move on to cyber crime, and the SafePay ransomware gang strikes at three Australian victims in a single week. Hollingworth and Croft also discuss the social media ban, which came into effect this week. Finally, the pair look at the Privacy Commissioner's new compliance crusade and a warning that scammers are posing as charities this Christmas season. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

A chance meeting with an astronaut changed Riley Havela's life, diverting her path from medicine straight into the world of aerospace engineering. In this episode of Defence Connect's The Progress Report, host Tash Taylor sits down with Riley Havela, founder of Riley the Aero Girl. She reveals how simply "shooting your shot" opens doors to valuable connections and emphasises that networking and passion are the ultimate fuels for success. The discussion dives into overcoming imposter syndrome, the necessity of personal branding, and how women are shaping the future of aviation by advocating for essential values like work-life balance. The Progress Report. New voices. Real stories. Big shifts. Enjoy the podcast, The Progress Report team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Peter Dean, professor of strategic studies at The Australian National University and within the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre and one of the lead authors of the 2023 Defence Strategic Review, and Hans Tench, senior executive and global AUKUS lead from Leidos Australia, to unpack the rapidly evolving strategic, political and industrial landscape surrounding AUKUS, with a particular focus on the often-overlooked Pillar 2. The conversation follows the first face-to-face meeting between US President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, where President Trump signalled strong support for AUKUS and committed to accelerating the delivery of nuclear-powered submarines under Pillar 1. The trio discuss a wide range of topics, including: The strategic significance of President Trump's reaffirmation of AUKUS and what it means for the Virginia Class submarine deal with Australia. Why Pillar 2 has been lagging and how political cycles in all three nations have slowed momentum. The challenge of balancing defence budgets while pursuing big-ticket capabilities like nuclear-powered submarines alongside emerging technologies. The shift from a "balanced force" to a focused and integrated force, and whether Australia risks drifting back towards old models. The potential of hypersonics, integrated air and missile defence, artificial intelligence, autonomy and the US "Golden Dome" initiative. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Contested Ground podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant and Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson are joined by special guest Dr Ross Babbage, chief executive officer of Strategic Forum and Non-Resident Senior Fellow at the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments in Washington DC. Together, the trio dive into Australia's rapidly shifting strategic landscape, the pressures shaping the US–Australia relationship, and the risks emerging across the Indo-Pacific as 2026 approaches. The team also tackles the return of a Trump administration in the US government amid rising uncertainty surrounding the People's Republic of China's internal trajectory. A central theme of the discussion is Australia's struggle to prioritise national security in line with allied expectations. The conversation then shifts to the composition of Australia's political leadership and its effect on national preparedness. Finally, the podcast ends with a discussion on military deterrence and insight into needed improvements in national resilience, industrial mobilisation and defence capability in Australia. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, host Steve Kuper speaks with former US naval attaché to Australia and Leidos Australia international science and technology director Kevin Quarderer and leading naval strategist Dr Jennifer Parker, an expert associate at the National Security College - The Australian National University. The trio, appearing from the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition 2025 in Sydney, discuss a range of factors shaping Australia's accelerating maritime focus and the operational realities of the AUKUS trilateral agreement. Both guests note the sharper strategic tone of this year's event, reflecting Canberra's growing recognition that national security will be shaped at sea. They also discuss advanced training pipelines, force protection, maintenance capacity and the reopening of key ports to support US, UK and Australian submarine operations. Logistics emerges as the decisive factor in maritime readiness, with both guests warning that the depth of Australia's replenishment fleet and supplies could constrain maritime operations, particularly as missile consumption rates continue to rise globally. Autonomy remains a major theme, with Quarderer and Parker highlighting its potential to extend reach, enhance survivability and complement crewed platforms. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Cyber Uncut podcast, David Hollingworth and Bethany Alvaro talk about the week's cyber security and AI news! Hollingworth and Alvaro get things started by unpacking the Australian government's National AI Plan. Is it actually good governance, or more of a vibe ripe to be abused by the AI giants? The pair then talk about the eSafety Commissioner's warning that smart car systems are being taken advantage of by domestic abusers, and concern over the impact of the looming social media ban might have on queer youth, before looking at a pair of interesting cyber security incidents from the past week. But we end on some good news. Hollingworth and Alvaro share some reactions to the National AI Plan, before talking about a new UK initiative to stand up an e-sports event to promote and sharpen vital cyber security skills. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Robert Dougherty is joined by business development director for Boeing Attack Helicopter Programs, Terry "TJ" Jamison, as they discuss the changing strategy of attack helicopters in modern warfare and the development of "launched effects". Jamison, a 30-year veteran of the US Army, has previously commanded an air cavalry squadron in Iraq and a combat aviation brigade in Afghanistan. The former Apache attack helicopter pilot retired from US military service as a colonel with more than 5,000 flight hours in helicopters, such as the AH-64D Apache Longbow and CH-47 Chinook. The pair discuss a range of topics, including: The evolving impact of "launched effects" and the uncrewed options for attack helicopters, such as the AH-64E Apache. The changes that the United States military is making to its own attack helicopter strategy, role and capabilities. Modern helicopter warfare examples seen in the Ukraine–Russia conflict and the implications being discussed in the public regarding attack helicopters. Manned and unmanned teaming technology being developed to empower aerial platforms, such as the AH-64E Apache and MQ-28A Ghost Bat. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Dee Lucero and Mohammad Siddique from DXC Technology, where they unpack the intricacies of the Defence Enterprise Resource Planning program and the role of digital systems in supporting the broader transformation. The trio also discuss a range of factors shaping the digital transformation of Australia's defence enterprise, including: Invaluable lessons from the US Navy's own ERP program and the journey the Australian Defence Force is now embarking on. The challenges and opportunities associated with such a complex and comprehensive digital environment transformation. The enhanced capabilities that the proper collection, analysis and dissemination of data in the contemporary battlespaces will deliver for the ADF. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Cyber Uncut podcast, David Hollingworth and Bethany Alvaro talk about the week's cyber security and AI news! Hollingworth and Alvaro get things started with a warning about a rise in AI-driven holiday scams taking advantage of the silly season. The pair also talk about a recent call from CPA Australia for young Australians to embrace AI to drive their entrepreneurial dreams. And then it's on to cyber security, with parliamentarians in Canberra warned to secure their connected devices ahead of a visit by a Chinese official, and worrying research on how the Chinese AI platform DeepSeek can actively insert vulnerabilities into code when certain "political triggers" are detected. And, sadly, the hacking never stops, with cyber extortionists targeting a pair of Aussie organisations. But we end on some good news. Hollingworth and Alvaro cover the newly announced AI Safety Institute, as well as the very welcome news of sanctions targeting a Russian cyber criminal service provider. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

How do you go from growing up in Ukraine to winning Academic of the Year in Australia? Dr Oleksandra Molloy, senior lecturer in aviation at UNSW Canberra, shares her extraordinary journey. Tash Taylor dives into Oleksandra's courageous move to Australia and her experience pioneering research in emerging technologies, particularly her vital work on drones in modern warfare and the Defence Trailblazer program. Oleksandra details her efforts to inspire the next generation of women in STEM and offers practical insight into managing a high-impact academic career with family life, emphasising that resilience is key to achieving high goals and making a lasting impact in complex and essential industries. 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 Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy, as they unpack the major milestones for Defence and defence industry. The pair discuss a range of topics, including: The impact of the SEA 3000 decision and implications for industrial and defence cooperation between Australia and Japan. Progress made on the nation's Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance program, including the breaking ground of the first Naval Strike Missile and Joint Strike Missile factory outside of Norway and local manufacturing contracts for a range of guided weapons. The ongoing reform processes designed to improve the efficiency and ease of doing business between Defence and industry. The lessons learned from the 2023 National Defence Strategy and Integrated Investment Program and how they will help shape the 2026 plans. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect Team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast at the recent Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition in Sydney, host Steve Kuper is joined by Alan Clements of L3Harris Technologies Australia as they explore the shifting dynamics shaping Australia's maritime modernisation and emerging technologies for the Australian Defence Force. They explore: The strong industry momentum at Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition 2025, driven by major Defence investments in the maritime domain, including AUKUS SSN, the evolved Mogami Class decision and broader fleet recapitalisation. L3Harris' role as a critical technology provider across air, land, sea, cyber and space to supply sensors, comms, power, electronic warfare systems and sustainment capabilities essential to Australian Defence Force operations. The scale of Australia's naval transformation, with new classes such as the evolved Mogami, Hunter Class and SSN-AUKUS submarines. These platforms represent a leap from legacy platforms to software-driven, high-tech systems that will reshape how the Royal Australian Navy trains, fights and integrates with joint forces. The challenge of transitioning to nuclear-powered submarines, including industry readiness, workforce uplift, sustainment requirements and close cooperation with US and UK partners. How autonomy, AI-enabled sensing and unmanned systems are expanding the ADF's capability, with L3Harris demonstrating unmanned platforms, passive electronic detection systems and "amorphous" command-and-control architectures at Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025. The Australian Army's growing maritime role through its landing craft modernisation and how naval-to-land integration is evolving as the ADF reshapes for littoral operations. The rising importance of AUKUS Pillar II, particularly autonomous undersea systems, seabed sensing and platform-agnostic C2. The increasing recognition across Defence that no single company can deliver full-spectrum capability and the value in collaborative integration across industry, SMEs and global supply chains. The urgent need for Australia to elevate investment and focus on electromagnetic spectrum control, electronic warfare and self-defence to deliver decisive maritime success. 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 new co-host, Steve Kuper, detail the intricacies of the proposed Russia–Ukraine peace deal announced by US President Donald Trump. The trio also unpack three emerging security issues: a proposed Russia–Ukraine peace deal, heightened Chinese activity in the northern Pacific, and suspected Russian sabotage operations in Europe. The peace proposal centres on a 30-day ceasefire, prisoner exchanges, and Ukraine conceding or freezing control of occupied territories. Ukraine would permanently renounce NATO membership, cap its military at around 600,000 personnel, and restrict long-range weapons. In return, the US and its partners would offer conditional security guarantees and gradually lift sanctions, with up to US$100 billion in frozen Russian assets used for reconstruction. Chinese maritime activity has intensified, with five survey vessels operating in the north-west Pacific during major US-led exercises. Pacific analysts warn this undersea mapping may support future conflict planning. In the UK, authorities are investigating whether Russia planted an incendiary parcel that ignited in a DHL warehouse, potentially linked to a similar case in Germany, part of a suspected GRU "mayhem" hybrid campaign. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Cyber Uncut podcast, David Hollingworth is joined by Bethany Alvaro to talk about all things Australia and cyber security! The pair kick things off with some AI news. NVIDIA announced record earnings as the AI bubble steadfastly refuses to burst, and ChatGPT's curious new group chat feature. Hollingworth and Alvaro then talk about cyber crime, with scammers gleefully preparing to take advantage of Black Friday sales, Optus getting pinged over falling afoul of anti-scam legislation, and the Brotherhood ransomware group claiming two Aussie hacks in just one day. And we end on some good news. Australia, the UK, and the US have sanctioned a pair of Russian companies for providing a raft of services to hackers, and EU law enforcement actions have taken down more than a thousand malicious servers. Enjoy, The Cyber Uncut team

In this special episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by the co-founder and CEO of Anduril Industries, Brian Schimpf, as they talk about building an allied industrial base and the intricacies involved. Recorded live at Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition 2025, the pair also discuss a range of subjects, including: The mechanics behind developing and implementing a comprehensive industry policy in a developed nation. The lessons of pre-Second World War industrialisation in the United States and the lessons learned through the "New Deal" that helped secure Allied victory. The myths about the role of automation in contemporary manufacturing and the role of skilled humans in and on the loop when it comes to modern, high-end, mass manufacturing. Designing capabilities and technologies from the ground up to be built en masse, via an IKEA-style approach. The scale and scope of Anduril's Arsenal-1 factory, currently under construction in Ohio. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Leighton Freene and Murray Thompson of Kinetic IT as they unpack the mechanics shaping the digital transformation of the Australian Defence Force. The trio also discuss a range of subjects, including: The pivotal role of digital technologies as the backbone of the ADF's shift towards an increasingly information-driven, technology-enabled "integrated, focused force". The growing complexities, opportunities and risks stemming from cloud computing and artificial intelligence – not only in their military and industrial applications but also in how they are exploited by adversaries across all five warfighting domains. Defence's ongoing digital transformation and the sheer scale of what is required to build, secure and sustain the systems that will be critical to preserving Australia's qualitative edge in an era of great-power competition. The rising importance of strong cyber hygiene across Defence, industry and the broader national security community, including disciplined identity management, multi-factor authentication, secure-by-design software development, routine patching, strict access controls and a culture that treats cyber security as a collective responsibility rather than a technical add-on. How strengthening cyber hygiene at every level – from defence SMEs to prime contractors, uniformed personnel to senior decision makers – is becoming essential to hardening the digital backbone of the ADF and safeguarding Australia's most sensitive capabilities from compromise. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Cyber Uncut podcast, David Hollingworth catches up with Proofpoint's chief strategy officer, Ryan Kalember, and vice president of systems engineering for the APJ region, Adrian Covich, while attending the Proofpoint Protect Tour in Melbourne. The three talk about the high-level trends and concerns they're seeing from CISOs both in Australia and abroad and the very real challenges of dealing with a fast-paced and ever-evolving threat landscape. Enjoy the episode, The Cyber Uncut team

In this episode of the Contested Ground podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant, Liam Garman, and Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson unpack two unfolding challenges shaping Australia's strategic outlook, an Iran-linked cyber breach exposing sensitive defence data, and China's latest move to outmanoeuvre Canberra in the Pacific. The discussion opens with the major cyber breach linked to Iran-aligned actors, exposing sensitive information from Australian defence programs through vulnerabilities in overseas contractors. Thompson warns that modern military platforms are now fully digital extensions of the network, and that the Australian Defence Force risks becoming collateral damage without stronger supply-chain defence. The hosts then turn to the Pacific, where China has unveiled a record $86 million aid package to Vanuatu, a direct counter to the Albanese government's stalled security pact. Garman notes the diplomatic setback highlights the limits of Australia's traditional leverage, with Port Vila reluctant to jeopardise its economic ties with Beijing. The conversation also covers China's commissioning of its first fully indigenous aircraft carrier, signalling a major step in Beijing's push for blue-water naval capability. Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

What does it mean to lead with honesty, show vulnerability, and embrace your authentic self – even when life feels chaotic? In this episode of The Progress Report, host Tash Taylor sits down with Rebecca Woolnough, area manager - Oceania for SMART Technologies, to unpack what true resilience and self-leadership look like beyond the polished titles and structured systems. From navigating self-doubt and impostor moments to learning how to "be the hurricane", Bec shares a refreshingly raw and honest reflection on leadership, motherhood, and maintaining identity amid constant pressure. The conversation explores everything from women's evolving roles in Defence to the mental load of balancing career, family, and self-worth. Through laughter, humility, and insight, Beck opens up about the moments that nearly broke her – and how those same moments built her into the leader she is today. She reminds us that progress isn't about perfection or control, but about showing up fully as yourself, even when the storm hits. The Progress Report. New voices. Real stories. Big shifts. Enjoy the podcast, The Progress Report team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Tim West, John Hillsdon and Mohammad Siddique from DXC Technology to unpack the digital transformation of the Australian Defence Force.  Together they discuss a range of topics, including: The central role of digital technologies as the backbone of the increasingly information and technology-driven "integrated, focused force" that the ADF is becoming. The complexities, opportunities and challenges emerging from cloud computing and artificial intelligence both in friendly and adversarial use across the five warfighting domains. The digital transformation of Defence and the scale and scope of what will be fundamentally essential to enhance and maintain Australia's qualitative edge against adversaries in the era of great-power competition. Enjoy the podcast,  The Defence Connect team

In this episode of the Cyber Uncut podcast, host Liam Garman is joined by Lumify Work's lead cyber security instructor, Louis Cremen, for a talk about all things AI, from how best to protect sensitive data to managing AI governance. The pair start things off with a discussion about how AI is rapidly transforming workplaces and how organisations must prioritise governance to protect data integrity and output decisions. Cremen and Garman follow that up with a look at how attackers are leveraging AI to create highly personalised phishing, multilingual scams, convincing deepfakes and AI-assisted malware. The pair finish up talking about the challenge of implementing fine-grained access controls, data provenance checks, and model testing and monitoring to detect prompt injection or poisoning. Enjoy the podcast, The Cyber Uncut team

In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, host Robert Dougherty sits down with PentenAmio executive co-chair Matthew Wilson to discuss the rapidly evolving world of secure communications. The pair examine the redefined world of sovereign capability in secure mobile communications, artificial intelligence-enabled cyber defence and electronic deception technologies. In the lead-up to the Military Communications and Information Systems Conference 2025 and the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition 2025, the pair assess the need to embrace mobile-first resilience and depth of collaboration between industry, government and Defence to strengthen national strategy. They also discuss: The historic merger of Penten and Amiosec earlier this year and the company's new strategic position. Secure Mobility and its critical role in today's government and defence industry context. How effective collaboration between government, defence and industry can deliver sovereign, usable solutions that meet emerging national security challenges. Finally, the pair close out the podcast announcing a commemorative sculpture installation at the Defence Force School of Signals, in recognition of the fine work performed by Australian Defence Force signals personnel. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team