The discussion begins with the newly officially launched 2026 Defence Industry Development Strategy and crucial reforms to Defence acquisitions announced by Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy.

Attention then turns to newly released footage from Ukraine’s International Legion, including reflections from an Australian combat medic serving on the frontline and the motivations driving foreign volunteers into the conflict.

Next is the New Zealand Defence Force’s first AGM-84 Harpoon missile launch from a P-8A Poseidon aircraft during Exercise Valiant Shield.

The conversation also examines the United Kingdom’s newly announced Defence Investment Plan, including additional funding commitments and the broader implications for allied defence preparedness amid worsening global instability.

Discussion then shifts to Australia’s domestic security environment following the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation’s latest annual threat assessment, including concerns surrounding espionage activity, pressure on defence industry stakeholders and emerging threats to Australia’s participation in AUKUS.

Rounding out the episode, Kuper and Dougherty explore the challenge of strengthening sovereign capability while navigating strategic competition, industrial security and an increasingly contested global environment.

Enjoy the podcast,
The Defence Connect team