Part of AUKUS Pillar II technology sharing, the un-crewed submarine was directed across hemispheres during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025. The UK, Australia, and the US are currently working with Japan on underwater acoustic communications.

Australia’s investments in digital infrastructure, like cyber resilience and Pacific connectivity, contribute to deterrence. Defence-related donations and partnerships reinforce security by building robust, trusted infrastructure in the region.

The author outlines phrases that exacerbate anxiety—like “just calm down”—and suggests empathetic alternatives that foster understanding and emotional support. The focus is on compassionate communication that validates, rather than dismisses distress.

Ukraine is integrating ground robots into casualty evacuation operations, significantly reducing medic risk and enabling faster, more flexible responses under fire. These systems shift traditional battlefield medical dynamics toward automation and force protection.

Billions are lost when human behaviour is overlooked in major projects—conflict, disengagement and misalignment derail outcomes. Leaders often avoid conflict and uncomfortable truths. Project guardians could ensure people are managed as rigorously as budgets/timelines.

The author argues a forum for senior officials and/or elected leaders from Australia, Japan, NZ, South Korea and the UK meeting on an annual basis could enhance their influence, strengthen shared values, and build resilience.

Trauma - informed leadership is essential for modern organisations. By integrating emotional awareness with operational strategy, HR can proactively support employees’ psychological safety, resilience and growth; boosting retention, performance and long-term organisational health.

The plaque honours ordinary people who risked their lives in the Pacific, gathering intelligence and saving others, often at great personal cost. Many islanders died helping. John F Kennedy (later US President) among those saved.

Un-crewed systems—air, sea, and ground—are reshaping risk management in high-threat environments, where rapid innovation is essential. Ukraine plans a layered air drone wall, while robots manoeuvre along the front, with soldiers hidden underground.

Research shows kindness improves trust, performance, and resilience in teams. Leaders who demonstrate empathy and compassion foster stronger relationships, higher morale, and better outcomes, especially in high-pressure, complex work environments.