Episodes

  • 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.

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    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

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    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
  • Securing a trusted workforce to tackle project bottlenecks

    Securing a trusted workforce to tackle project bottlenecks
    May 13 2026

    In this episode, Grant McHerron talks with Matt Kirk, the Director of Trusted Workforce at Worksec, and we’ll be discussing the importance of a trusted workforce.

    We begin our discussion by exploring the current workforce issue in defence and government sectors, focusing on the bottleneck caused by trust concerns rather than technological limitations. We examine how projects can be delayed due to personnel clearance issues, with companies often finding themselves unable to proceed because they lack cleared staff at critical stages like tendering. The conversation delves into why this issue hasn't been fixed yet, highlighting factors such as supply chain competition and sovereignty concerns. There's a significant backlog of clearances needed for defense projects globally. We also assess the threats posed by an unvetted workforce, particularly insider risk when working with sensitive information or classified positions. The ability to vet humans remains one of the biggest challenges in security clearance processes.

    We wrap up by discussing how WorkSec helps resolve these workforce trust issues through their 'Security Officer as a Service' offering, allowing companies to outsource governance and compliance tasks entirely while still meeting mandatory requirements like DISP membership criteria.

    Links:

    WorkSec: https://worksec.au/

    This episode has been sponsored by WorkSec.

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

    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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    31 mins
  • Different shades of sovereignty with Corvo X, PrSM Increment 2 & solid rocket motors

    Different shades of sovereignty with Corvo X, PrSM Increment 2 & solid rocket motors
    May 10 2026

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

    We start with traffic still not clearing the Hormuz Strait and the implications it has for farmers, fuel reserves and Defence capability. Fortunately the NDS & IIP are calling out improvements to our on-shore fuel storage.

    Next up we congratulate SYPAQ Sustems' Corvo X small UAS entering into service, including on-going innovation and updates being included in the sustainment agreement. From there we look at the Land 8113 Phase 2 announcement for land based maritime strike going to Lockheed Martin with HiMARS and PrSM Increment 2, despite that missile not being in production as yet. We note that we already have HiMARS with GMLRS and have an agreement with the USA to assist with PrSM development and local production. That said, the question must be asked about why Kongsberg's StrikeMaster wasn't selected given Bushmasters are already produced in Australia and the NSM will be in production here from early 2027.

    We wrap by looking at the recent announcement of the government signing an agreement with Northrup Grumman towards establishing a sovereign Solid Rocket Motor production facility in Australia. It's targeting the early 2030s for production but is starting with exploration, discussions and clarification of potential requirements and processes. The announcement noted this would build on DSTG's Australian designed and built DRACO SRM which was static fired at Woomera in Feb, bringing NG's 70+ years of SRM experience while also including collaboration with Australian companies DefendTex, Black Sky Industries and Anduril Australia to “explore their novel manufacturing methods.”

    Links:

    SYPAQ Systems Corvo X enters into service

    https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/sypaq-systems-corvo-x-enters-into-service

    Land 8113 Phase 2 goes to Lockheed Martin and PrSM

    https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/lockheed-martin-welcomes-land-8113

    https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/lockheed-martin-wins-land-8113

    Government signs agreement with Northrop Grumman towards establishing sovereign Solid Rocket Motor production

    https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/northrop-grumman-to-help-srm-manufacturing

    https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/australia-to-establish-solid-rocket-motor-production

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

    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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    14 mins
  • Assistance for ADF Members & Veterans thanks to Legacy, Wounded Heroes and Soldier On

    Assistance for ADF Members & Veterans thanks to Legacy, Wounded Heroes and Soldier On
    May 5 2026

    This episode presents a set of interviews with representatives from three organisations that provide assistance to Australian Defence Force veterans and their families. All three rely heavily on donations and volunteers to ensure those in need are supported. We hope this episode will help increase awareness of their efforts and perhaps inspire people and companies to contribute to a worthy cause.

    We open the episode with Graham Boyd from Legacy, next is Martin Shaw from Wounded Heroes, then we close with Paul Singer from Soldier On.

    Links:

    Legacy

    https://www.legacy.com.au/

    Wounded Heroes Australia

    https://www.woundedheroes.org.au/

    Soldier On

    https://soldieron.org.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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    40 mins