Testing successfully demonstrated mission-ready counter-drone technology for use by the ADF. The system will further strengthen Australia’s sovereign defence capability, achieving a key milestone in advancing Australia’s ability to counter evolving aerial threats.

Western militaries should urgently integrate private-sector innovation and industrial mobilization into strategy, leveraging commercial tech for rapid, adaptive warfare and economic competition in order to maintain operational advantage in modern conflicts.

The expanded MQ-28 Ghost Bat fleet of advanced autonomous aircraft should boost operational capability, integrating with existing crewed platforms, and enabling safer, more effective air combat missions through data-driven collaboration.

The author argues AI-driven systems will reshape operations and risk—autonomous agents demand proactive identity, data, and browser security; organisations must enforce zero trust, maintain visibility, and manage AI risk to stay resilient against machine-speed threats.

Foreign intelligence is aggressively targeting Australia’s defence sector, seeking operational and technological insights. Organisations must strengthen security, foster awareness, and manage risks—failure to act could threaten national advantage and critical military capabilities.

Avoiding conflict often breeds resentment and stifles creativity. Leaders should normalize constructive disagreement by inviting challenges and engaging silent voices. This helps foster trust, collaboration, and better decisions through open, respectful dialogue.

The US Space Force and NRO plan a competitive, multi-award strategy to develop and field satellites that can track aircraft and drones, while balancing long-term goals and addressing congressional concerns over E-7 Wedgetail program continuation.

To remedy some of the problems that have hampered war-gaming for years, USAF plans to use WarMatrix—an AI-powered, cloud-based system that can run simulations 10,000x faster, enhance realism, decision-making, and scalability for joint operations.

Australia is using old laws to manage new artificial intelligence risks. This avoids early disruption but creates blind spots. Other nations are moving faster—Australia risks falling behind without clearer direction and stronger safeguards.

Australia’s Defence procurement is being overhauled through the creation of a Defence Delivery Agency. Success depends on embracing innovation, rapid capability development, and cultural change—otherwise, delays and inefficiencies may persist despite structural reform.