The US Air Force’s General Atomics-built YFQ-42A collaborative combat aircraft completed its first flight in California, marking rapid progress toward a 1,000-strong fleet of autonomous ‘drone wingmen’, designed to augment fifth- and sixth-generation fighters.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is developing manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) concepts, focusing on enhancing software and algorithms to integrate autonomous systems into air operations, differing from the U.S. approach that emphasizes advanced autonomy.

Coordinated, multi-use infrastructure—planned with early Defence, government, commercial, and investor collaboration—is needed to boost resilience and capability, reduce duplication, and ensure assets remain adaptable for crises ranging from natural disasters to regional disruptions.

Investment in global military activities represents around 2.5% of GDP. Investors are now focussing on the defence industry—which is expanding in reaction to global threats—causing increased attention on government defence budgets.

The article explores the evolution of naval warfare from the 7th century BC to the 17th century AD, highlighting key warships that influenced maritime dominance and military strategy across various civilizations.

Testing involves weapons integration and critical mission systems. Capable of carrying both nuclear and conventional weapons, its advanced stealth should allow it to carry out penetrating strike missions inside enemy territory. One-hundred aircraft planned.

The author of this article claims that Australian Government reforms are notoriously slow to implement. Defence needs timely reform and innovation to maintain a strategic edge. Defence managers have a critical role in championing reform.

Un-crewed underwater vehicle (UUV) technology, initially designed for marine conservation, is being repurposed for covert maritime surveillance and potential military applications. This shift underscores the dual-use nature of emerging technologies and their implications for modern navies.

Unread books—whether called antilibrary or tsundoku—aren’t failures, but reminders of what we don’t yet know. They foster curiosity and lifelong learning, challenging intellectual complacency while strengthening cognitive, social, and personal growth.

Saying no is one of the most challenging aspects of management. Arguably saying ‘no’ conflicts with feelings we instinctively try to avoid. To be comfortable, strategies based on setting boundaries and understanding needs are recommended.