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  • Board | Williams Foundation

    Board The Sir Richard Williams Foundation conducts its operations independently and has no political or industry ties. ​ The Foundation's activities are governed by its Board. The current Board is comprised of 11 former military leaders and security strategists. Members' business affiliations are listed in their biographies. Members are required to absent themselves from any discussion which might create a conflict of interest. The Board welcomes participation from the broad cross-section of the Australian community. ​ ​ Air Chief Marshal (Retd) Mark Binskin AC Chair Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin AC (Retd) is a highly respected senior executive and leader in the national security, defence and aerospace sectors. He was Chief of the Defence Force of Australia from 2014-2018, Vice Chief of the Defence Force (2011-2014) and Chief of Air Force (2008-2011). In 2020, he was Chair of the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements. He is currently Chair of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, Chair of the Pacific Security College Advisory Board, Deputy Chair of the Sir Richard Williams Foundation, on the Boards of the Western Parkland City Authority and Invictus Australia, a member of the Governing Committee of the Temora Aviation Museum and provides strategic advice as a Non-Executive Director with BAE Systems Australia and Nihon Cyber Defence. As Chief of Defence, Air Chief Marshal Binskin (Retd) successfully led the Australian Defence Force, comprising 80,000 permanent and reserve personnel, to significantly improve capabilities and responses to major global events and championed organisational change across areas of national security, culture, diversity and leadership performance. Air Chief Marshal Binskin (Retd) has provided national security advice to the highest levels of governments, industry leaders and international stakeholders and his aerospace knowledge and expertise is extensive. He has over 3,500 hours in single seat fighter aircraft including the A-4G Skyhawk, Mirage 111O, F-16C and F/A-18 Hornet, and continues to be active in general aviation. Air Chief Marshal Binskin (Retd) has completed the Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program, is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society. Air Marshal (Retd) Geoff Brown AO Deputy Chair Geoff Brown AO retired from the Royal Australian Air Force in July 2015 as Air Marshal in the position of Chief of Air Force. In a 35-year career, he commanded at all levels in the Air Force and flew Chinook helicopters, F-111s and F/A-18 as well as being a flying instructor and a member of the Roulette Aerobatic team. His operational service included Operation Iraqi Freedom where he was the operational commander for all RAAF assets. Among his qualifications, he holds a BEng (Mech), a Master of Arts (Strategic Studies), Fellow of the Institute of Engineering Australia and is a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society. Since leaving the Air Force he has been appointed as a Director of Lockheed Martin (Australia), a Director of Electro Optic Systems, Chairman of the Sir Richard Williams Foundation, Chairman of the Advisory Board of CAE Asia Pacific and Middle East, Director on the Governing Council for the Temora Air Museum and a Director of GCB Stratos Consulting. He also mentors in Leadership and Strategic Studies at the Australian Defence College. His honours and awards include his appointment as an Officer in the Order of Australia, the United States Legion of Merit and the Meritorious Service Medal from Singapore. Ken Moore Treasurer and Secretary Ken had an extensive career in the Australian Public Service with the Department of Defence. His last appointment was as the Defence Chief Finance Officer (Deputy Secretary level). Prior to the CFO position, Ken held a number of other senior management appointments in Defence including Head of National Operations Division that was responsible for the management and delivery of a large range of services to all Defence bases across Australia. After leaving the APS, Ken worked for a number of years with the ACT Government as the Chief Executive Officer of Rhodium Asset Solutions (the Government’s vehicle leasing company) and Executive Director Shared Services ICT. Ken holds two appointments: Independent Chair, Audit Committee, Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions Board Member and Treasurer Sir Richard Williams Foundation Ken has tertiary qualifications in economics and accounting. He is a Fellow of CPA Australia and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Ken is also a graduate of the Advanced Management Program at the INSEAD Business School in France and the Senior Defence Resource Management Program at the US Navy Postgraduate School in California. Vice Admiral (Rtd) Tim Barrett AO, CSC Director Vice Admiral Barrett joined the Royal Australian Navy in 1976 as a Seaman Officer and later specialised in aviation. He assumed command of the Royal Australian Navy on 1 July 2014 and remained in this position until 6 July 2018. A dual-qualified officer, Vice Admiral Barrett served in Her Majesty's Australian (HMA) Ships Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane and HMS Orkney as a Seaman Officer and then as Flight Commander in HMA Ships Stalwart, Adelaide and Canberra. His staff appointments include Deputy Director Air Warfare Development, Director Naval Officer's Postings and Director General of Defence Force Recruiting. Vice Admiral Barrett has served as Commanding Officer 817 Squadron, Commanding Officer HMAS Albatross, Commander Australian Navy Aviation Group, Commander Border Protection Command and as Commander Australian Fleet. Vice Admiral Barrett was awarded a Conspicuous Service Cross in 2006 for outstanding performance as Commanding Officer HMAS Albatross and as Chief of Staff Navy Aviation Force Element Group Headquarters. Vice Admiral Barrett was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia in 2009 and subsequently promoted to Officer of the Order of Australia in 2014 for his leadership of Border Protection Command and the Australian Fleet. Vice Admiral Barrett holds a Bachelor of Arts in Politics and History and a Masters of Defence Studies, both from the University of New South Wales, and has completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School. He recently published ‘The Navy and the Nation: Australia's Maritime Power in the 21st Century’ in which he outlines the extensive opportunities for Navy and Australia as steps are taken to implement the planned investment in naval capability outlined in the Defence White Paper 2016 and the National Shipbuilding Plan over the coming decades. Vice Admiral Barrett and his wife, Jenny, have two daughters. John Conway Director John retired from the Royal Air Force as a Group Captain in 2010 having served 24 years in a number flying, staff and senior command roles. His experience on the F4 Phantom and Tornado F3 aircraft included Cold War Europe, the South Atlantic, the Balkans, and the Middle East theatres of operation. He commanded the United Kingdom’s largest Permanent Joint Operating Base at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus between 2005 and 2008 enabling the airbridge into Iraq and Afghanistan, and supporting strategic ISR operations in the eastern Mediterranean. ​ John is the owner and Managing Director of Felix, an independent company providing specialist air domain and intelligence capability development, and creative services to Defence and industry. He was previously a business development executive with Raytheon Australia specialising in air combat integration, electronic warfare, advanced weapons systems, test and training ranges, and integrated air and missile defence. Emily Frizell Director Emily is a veteran with 25 years’ experience in Defence and Defence Industry. Beginning her career in the RAAF as an electrical engineer, Emily now owns a successful engineering and management specialist consulting company, AeroPM. Under Emily’s leadership, AeroPM has experienced sustained and rapid growth over the last five years and is the recipient of many industry awards, including being a National finalist in the Telstra Awards and listed as a Smart50 SME and AFR Fast 100 company. Emily has been personally recognised as Female Defence Leader of the Year, finalist in the Women in Defence Awards and finalist as the Veteran Entrepreneur of the Year. Emily proudly supports veteran employment and entrepreneurship and is a Soldier on Ambassador. She is an active member of the Princes Trust Australia Enterprise for Veterans Advisory Council, and UNSW School of Engineering and IT Academic Advisory Board. She is also a Board Director of the Sir Richard Williams Foundation. Amy List Director Amy List was appointed managing director of Boeing Defence Australia (BDA) in February 2024. In this role, List leads the BDA businesses, capabilities and functions at the organisation’s 13 Australian sites. Her duties include establishing and executing new and existing programs, achieving business objectives, and implementing corporate strategies that position Boeing’s Australian defence activities for continued success. Prior to her appointment, List was director of Operations where she provided strategic advice to the executive and managed day-to-day operations and administration of the business. From March 2020 to October 2023, she was the director Sustainment Operations where she was responsible for managing the company’s through-life sustainment support and training solutions for military platforms in order to maximise operational readiness while reducing cost of ownership. This included delivering sustainment contracts for Australia’s F/A-18F Super Hornets, EA-18G Growlers, CH-47F Chinooks and F/A-18 A/B Classic Hornets; the C-17 Globemaster III logistics support and maintenance; and the Helicopter Aircrew Training System, as well as for the Republic of Singapore Air Force’s CH-47Fs. List joined BDA in December 2018, performing a number of leadership positions including director of the Structures and Build capability and director of Wedgetail Programs, where she led all sustainment and training programs for the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF’s) fleet of six E-7A Wedgetail aircraft. Prior to Boeing, List spent over nine years at Raytheon in operational and business development roles, including as head of Business Operations for Raytheon Australia, where she was responsible for the successful delivery of all programs across the company’s portfolio, as well as business intelligence and reporting. List started her professional career as an Aeronautical Engineering Officer in the RAAF. During her tenure, she served in a number of operational roles, before running both acquisition and sustainment programs for the Defence Materiel Organisation. Post-separation from the Australian Defence Force, List ran a consulting business, offering project and risk management services to clients across the defence and mining industries. List is a graduate of the Australian Defence Force Academy and holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Aeronautical) and a Masters Degree in Project Management. She is also a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Gerard Foley Director Ged Foley has 40 years’ experience across the commercial, federal government, and private sectors in Australia and internationally, with a focus on influencing the governments and Defence Departments of Australia and allied nations. He specialises in influencing strategic intent through the implementation of thought leadership initiatives that produce lasting and distinctive national security improvements. He served over 15 years on the executive leadership team of the Australian subsidiary of the world’s largest Defence and Aerospace company, where he was responsible for shaping the company’s business strategy, driving enterprise-wide growth, and overseeing corporate development. Prior to joining RTX, Ged worked in the information technology sector as a project manager and account executive for a mainframe software and services company. He also spent 15 years as an Australian Army officer specialising in rotary wing aviation, leadership instruction, and major capital equipment acquisition. Ged is a graduate of the Royal Military College Duntroon and the Australian Defence Force Academy. He holds an honours degree in electrical engineering from the University of New South Wales and a master’s degree in Defence Technology from Cranfield University, U.K. He is a Fellow of Engineers Australia, a Chartered Professional Engineer, and is listed on several international and domestic engineering registers. Major General (Retd) Fergus "Gus" McLachlan AO Director Gus McLachlan completed his 37-year career with the Australian Army in December 2018, retiring as a Major General. Gus McLachlan has been responsible for generating Australian Defence capability in cyber space, electronic warfare and command and control systems. He completed two years as Head of Army Modernisation, during which time he worked closely with industry to commence a major recapitalisation of Army equipment and to network the systems of the Army. Gus McLachlan’s military career concluded after he led Land Forces Command where he was responsible for 35,000 women and men of the Army. He continued his leadership career in the commercial sector with Boral, Australia’s largest construction materials company, where he led Business Performance and Improvement during a major transformation activity. Gus McLachlan is currently a Senior Adviser at Bondi Partners, a unique advisory firm offering strategic counsel to businesses in Australia and the United States. He is a Director and Strategic Adviser to Australian and US defence, cyber and space technology companies. He is an Adjunct Professor at Monash University where he advises on national security research, and he chairs the Advisory Board for Cyber and Data Security at Charles Sturt University. Gus is also Director of the not-for-profit Williams Foundation, an air and space “Think Tank”. Gus was made an Officer in the Order or Australia (AO) for his contribution to Army Modernisation and awarded the United States Legion of Merit by Secretary James Mattis for his service in the international coalition force in Afghanistan. Gus lives in Sydney with his wife Maree and they have two adult sons. Nicole Quinn Director Nicole is Vice President, Public Policy and Government Affairs, Japan and Asia Pacific for Palo Alto Networks – the world’s largest dedicated cyber security company. Prior to joining Palo Alto Networks Nicole’s roles included strategic advisor to companies including the Defence sector, advisor to a NSW Senator, General Manager and Board Member of the Institute For Regional Security, National Convenor for Defence Families of Australia and General Manager at the State Chamber of Commerce (NSW). In addition to being a board member of the Sir Richard Williams Foundation, Nicole is an American Chamber of Commerce Governor (Vice-Chair ACT), and a member of the RMIT Industry Advisory Board for Cyber. Air Vice-Marshal (Ret’d) Steve Roberton, DSC, AM Director ‘Zed' is a Category A Fighter Pilot who joined the Royal Australian Air Force after completing a Bachelor of Science at Queensland University. He flew for 26 years of his RAAF career including fighter tours in Australian combat units and an exchange flying F/A-18s with the United States Marine Corps. ​ AVM Roberton enjoyed five commands in his RAAF career: initially commanding Number 75 Squadron for three years in Australia’s Northern Territory. Roberton led the RAAF’s transition to F/A-18F Super Hornet before commanding Number 82 Wing at RAAF Amberley; for which he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2012. Roberton commanded the inaugural Operation OKRA Air Task Group 630 countering ISIL in 2014, for which he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. He returned to Australia to command Air Combat Group in 2015 and went on to assume the Air Commander Australia role in 2017. AVM Roberton was Head Force Design in VCDF Executive in 2019, delivering the Force Structure Plan 2020 and the ADF Workforce Growth submission to Government. Zed completed several joint staff tours in project management and capability development roles. His further education includes a Masters in Management from Australian staff college in 2002 and the UK's Higher Command and Staff College in 2012. He completed the Australian Company Director’s Course in 2013 and the Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program in 2022. ​ Steve is a full-time senior advisor with McKinsey and Company based in Canberra and he is married to Libby. Katherine Ziesing Director Katherine Ziesing is the Strategic Communications Manager at Hanwha Defence Australia. In this role, she is integral in supporting the business to mobilise and deliver capability across a range of capabilities. Prior to this role she was the Strategic Communications Manager at a Canberra based contracting SME, leading client engagement with over 400 member companies working into government. She was Managing Editor at Australian Defence Magazine Group, working in the company for 15 years. Katherine joined the ADM team in 2006 as a staff writer and was appointed editor in Canberra at the beginning of 2008. She took on the expanded role of Managing Editor of Yaffa Media’s ADM Group at the beginning of 2018. While she has a background in business journalism and economics, she has also completed a Masters of Strategy and Policy at the University of New South Wales at the Australian Defence Force Academy, graduating in 2010. She was a member of the Defence Industry Study Course (DISC) in 2017. She has served as a committee member of the Submarine Institute of Australia and as a board member for the National Institute of Security Resilience. She was a founding member of the Defence and National Security Media Association, a group of Australia’s leading Defence and National Security journalists. Chair DeputyChair Treasurer Secretary Directors

  • Research | Williams Foundation

    RESEARCH Our work has a future strategic focus Our research and conference papers draw on the expertise of leading Defence, Industry and thought leaders in Australia and internationally. Our studies are succinct, future-focused and action-orientated. They assess the challenges ahead and raise policy issues to shape the future. Apr 30, 2020 Williams Paper: The Coming of the Australian Arafura Class Offshore Patrol Vessel: A Case Study The Arafura Class Offshore Patrol Vessel is the first of the new build platforms. It provides the template with regard to the entire reset o Oct 31, 2019 Conference: The Requirements of Fifth Generation Manoeuvre - Final Report ...major presentations and discussions at the Williams Foundation seminar on the requirements for fifth generation manoeuvre Apr 11, 2019 Conference: Hi-Intensity Operations and Sustaining Self Reliance - Final Report The latest Williams Seminar held in Canberra on April 11, 2019 focused on the strategic shift for Australia within the context of the evolvi Sep 7, 2018 Conference: The Imperative for an Independent Deterrent: A Joint Strike Seminar - Final Report Since 2014, the Williams Foundation has held a series of seminars, which have looked at the nature of military transformation enabled by new May 1, 2018 Conference: The Requirements of High Intensity Warfare - Final Report the Foundation is focusing on the new strategic context within which this force will operate and the kinds of further changes necessary for Sep 15, 2017 Conference: A New Approach, and Attitude, to Electronic Warfare In Australia - Final Report In this report, the major presentations at the Williams Foundation seminar on the evolution of electronic warfare, notably from the standpoi Apr 30, 2017 Williams Paper - Integrated Air and Missile Defence Study: The Challenge of Integrated Force Design The Williams Foundation conducted an Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) study between Sep16 and Feb17 to explore the challenges of bu Apr 27, 2017 Conference: Air / Sea / Land: Integrated Force 2030 - Final Report On April 11, 2017, the Williams Foundation held its latest seminar on shaping a way ahead in the shaping of a 21st century combat force. Thi Apr 30, 2014 Conference: Air Combat Operations 2025 and Beyond - Executive Summary Report The seminar explored the challenges and opportunities afforded by the introduction of 5th generation air combat capabilities. Apr 30, 2014 Conference: Air Combat Operations 2025 and Beyond - Laird Special Report Australia is building out a modest but effective 21st century Air Force built around the best available 21st century platforms and technolog Feb 28, 2014 Williams Paper: Protecting Australia with UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) The capabilities and use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) has grown rapidly over the last decade or so. Australia’s geography is uniquely we Jan 31, 2012 Williams Paper: Flawed Doctrine: The Problem With Centralised Control And Decentralised Execution This paper focuses on two objections to current ADF doctrine. First, reliance on a ‘bumper-sticker’4 as the basis for developing command arr

  • New airpower and force design thinking | Williams Foundation

    We promote independent and innovative thinking to enhance Australia’s integrated 5th Generation force capability. Through our events & programs , we connect a wide network of practitioners, experts and academics to forge new ideas for future military force design with a networked edge. EXPERT ANALYSIS In-depth thinking by our highly experienced network of non-resident fellows, scholars and active practitioners Oct 7 7 min read Defence Industry in Australia: Building Strategic Depth and Resilience in Support of the Ready Force - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Defence Industry in Australia: Building Strategic Depth and Resilience in Support of the Ready Force, 7 October 2024... MORE EXPERT ANALYSIS NEWS & UPDATES Stay up-to-date with the latest in the Foundation's news and activities > Sep 26 2 min read Conference Proceedings: Enhancing and Accelerating the Integrated Force: An Operational Perspective Dr Robbin Laird Final Report: Enhancing and Accelerating the Integrated Force: An Operational Perspective - will be released in October... CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS EVENTS Errol McCormack lunches and Conferences are complimentary for financial members of the Williams Foundation. 2024 Errol McCormack Member Lunches Dec 15, 2023 1 min read 2024 Williams Foundation Conferences Dec 13, 2023 1 min read Click for more information and registration Platinum Corporate Partner

  • Events | Williams Foundation

    EVENTS Our events are a fusion of influential ideas and powerful networking opportunities Our events attract an influential cross-section of Defence leaders, researchers and industry practitioners to share international and local experiences around future force thinking. Whether it be our day-long conferences, or our popular luncheon series, they're proven to be forums that offer focused, sharp insights that generate crucial ideas for the future. Upcoming Events Click here for more infomation and registration Event Proceedings Anchor 1 Download presentation packs, speeches and other materials from our previous events. Defence Industry in Australia: Building Strategic Depth and Resilience in Support of the Ready Force - Dr Robbin Laird Enabling and Defending the National Information Society: The Space Dimension - Dr Robbin Laird Shaping a Way Ahead for Airpower in a Contested Region: The Perspective of Air Vice Marshal Glen Braz - Dr Robbin Laird MORE PROCEEDINGS

  • Programs | Williams Foundation

    PROGRAMS We offer an array of activities designed to advance the field of future force design. Beyond our events program, we publish a range of insights and research. We also engage in various support activities to bolster the intellectual base that underpins future force concepts. Air Power Scholars Scheme Read More Grants Scheme Read More

  • People | Williams Foundation

    PEOPLE The Williams Foundation's mission is only furthered due to the dedication of its people. The Foundation has a core intellectual base of experienced board members, writers, non-resident fellows and operations staff. It also draws on external partners and knowledge networks and works with leading international practitioners to participate in the Foundation’s activities. Board Read More Fellows Read More Operations Team Read More

  • Partnering | Williams Foundation

    PARTNERING We offer unique opportunities to participate and partner in our work. Whether you're seeking to participate on an individual basis, or to align your organisation with our endeavours, we have a range of membership and partnering packages designed to suit your needs. Corporate Partners & Sponsors Read More Membership Read More Knowledge Network Read More

  • Insights | Williams Foundation

    INSIGHTS Future warfighting begins in the mind We draw on a vast network of experts, practitioners and academics to offer the latest force design analysis and thinking. From seasoned perspectives by our Experts, to the latest interviews on WilliamsTV, we invite you to canvass the insights from our diverse network of contributors. Expert Analysis In-depth thinking by our highly experienced network of military scholars and practitioners. View >> Williams Video Catch the latest interviews & conversations with leading military & though-leaders Watch Now > The Central Blue A forum designed to promote informed discussion and debate about air power issues affecting Australia. View >> Event Proceedings Presentation packs, speeches and other materials from our previous events Review More >

  • Event Proceedings | Williams Foundation

    Event Proceedings Stay up-to-date - presentation packs, speeches and other materials from our previous events are available for download. ​ Conference reports: Dr Robbin Laird, Williams Foundation Fellow, and contributor for Second Line of Defense , produces a conference report highlighting the innovation, challenges and policy implications presented. He also interviews a number of senior Defence personnel to produce a series of smaller topical articles. ​ Oct 7 Defence Industry in Australia: Building Strategic Depth and Resilience in Support of the Ready Force - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Defence Industry in Australia: Building Strategic Depth and Resilience in Support of the Ready Force, 7 October 2024... Oct 7 Enabling and Defending the National Information Society: The Space Dimension - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Enabling and Defending the National Information Society: The Space Dimension, 7 October 2024 Link to article... Oct 7 Shaping a Way Ahead for Airpower in a Contested Region: The Perspective of Air Vice Marshal Glen Braz - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Shaping a Way Ahead for Airpower in a Contested Region: The Perspective of Air Vice Marshal Glen Braz, 7 October 2024... Oct 5 The Challenge of Shaping the Way Ahead for the Ready Force and Preparing for Future Threats - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Challenge of Shaping the Way Ahead for the Ready Force and Preparing for Future Threats, 5 October 2024 Link to... Oct 4 How Does the Ready Force Deal with a Rapidly Changing Operational Environment? - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, How Does the Ready Force Deal with a Rapidly Changing Operational Environment? 4 October 2024 Link to article... Oct 3 The Chief of the Australian Army Explains How They are Dealing with the Simultaneous Challenges of the Three R’s - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Chief of the Australian Army Explains How They are Dealing with the Simultaneous Challenges of the Three R’s, 3... Oct 2 Building Combat Mass: An Air Force Perspective - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Building Combat Mass: An Air Force Perspective, 2 October 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) The panel on combat mass... Oct 1 The Force in Being to Protect the Nation: It's More than the ADF’s Role - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Force in Being to Protect the Nation: Its More than the ADF’s Role, 1 October 2024 Link to article (Defense.info)... Sep 30 Building Combat Mass: A Navy Perspective - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Building Combat Mass: A Navy Perspective, 30 September 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) When you are a medium-sized... Sep 29 The Challenge for Defence Readiness: The Impact of Politics - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Challenge for Defence Readiness: The Impact of Politics, 29 September 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) If one is... Sep 28 The Perspective of Australia’s AUKUS Partners on Shaping the Way Ahead for Airpower - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Perspective of Australia’s AUKUS Partners on Shaping the Way Ahead for Airpower , 28 September 2024 Link to article... Sep 27 The September 26, 2024 Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar: An Initial Take - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The September 26, 2024 Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar: An Initial Take, 27 September 2024 Link to article... Sep 26 Conference Proceedings: Enhancing and Accelerating the Integrated Force: An Operational Perspective Dr Robbin Laird Final Report: Enhancing and Accelerating the Integrated Force: An Operational Perspective - will be released in October... Sep 7 Shaping a Way Ahead for Airpower in a Contested Region: The Perspective of Air Vice Marshal Glen Braz - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Shaping a Way Ahead for Airpower in a Contested Region: The Perspective of Air Vice Marshal Glen Braz, 7 October 2024... May 17 Conference Proceedings: The Multi-Domain Requirements of an Australian Maritime Strategy Dr Robbin Laird Final Report: The Multi-Domain Requirements of an Australian Maritime Strategy 11 April 2024 More articles from Dr Laird... May 16 The Strategic Shift in Australian Defence Requires a Shift in the Approach for Australian Defence Industry - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Strategic Shift in Australian Defence Requires a Shift in the Approach for Australian Defence Industry, 16 May 2024... May 14 A Focused Force: Autonomous Systems and a Distributed ISR Enterprise - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, A Focused Force: Autonomous Systems and a Distributed ISR Enterprise, 14 May 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) As the... May 9 Australia’s New Defence Strategy: Reshaping the ADF into a Focused Force - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Australia’s New Defence Strategy: Reshaping the ADF into a Focused Force, 9 May 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) The... May 9 Layered ISR and a Focused Force - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Layered ISR and a Focused Force, 9 May 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) If you want to shape an effective focused... May 7 Shaping C2 for the ADF and Coalition Forces: The Perspective of Air Vice Marshal Mike Kitcher - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Shaping C2 for the ADF and Coalition Forces: The Perspective of Air Vice Marshal Mike Kitcher, 7 May 2024 Link to... May 6 RPAs, Autonomous Systems and How to Strengthen the ADF in the Next 3-5 Years - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, RPAs, Autonomous Systems and How to Strengthen the ADF in the Next 3-5 Years, 6 May 2024 Link to article (Defense.info)... May 5 Cognitive and Information War and the “Gray Zone” - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Cognitive and Information War and the “Gray Zone”, 5 May 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) An aspect of modern... May 4 How to Enhance Space’s Contribution to Australian Multi-Domain Operations in Support of Maritime Operations - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, How to Enhance Space’s Contribution to Australian Multi-Domain Operations in Support of Maritime Operations, 4 May 2024... May 2 How to Build a Focused Force for Australia’s Extant Strategic Environment? - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, How to Build a Focused Force for Australia’s Extant Strategic Environment?, 2 May 2024 Link to article (Defense.info)... Apr 30 Logistics and Sustainment for an Evolving Defence of Australia Strategy - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Logistics and Sustainment for an Evolving Defence of Australia Strategy, 30 April 2024 Link to article (Defense.info)... Apr 29 Multi-Domain Operations in Australia’s Maritime Strategy: The Army, Navy, and Air Force Orient Their Efforts - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Multi-Domain Operations in Australia’s Maritime Strategy: The Army, Navy, and Air Force Orient Their Efforts, 29 April... Apr 26 Aligning Airpower Capabilities with Australia’s Maritime Strategy - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Aligning Airpower Capabilities with Australia’s Maritime Strategy, 26 April 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) At the... Apr 24 Conceptualizing Australia’s Maritime Strategy and Shaping a Government Approach - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Conceptualizing Australia’s Maritime Strategy and Shaping a Government Approach, 24 April 2024 Link to article... Apr 23 Shaping Space for Autonomous Systems in the Operating Force: The Case of the Loyal Wingman - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Shaping Space for Autonomous Systems in the Operating Force: The Case of the Loyal Wingman, 23 April 2024 Link to... Apr 21 Air Power in Australia’s Maritime Strategy - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Air Power in Australia’s Maritime Strategy, 21 April 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) This was the title of the... Apr 21 Mike Pezzullo on the Strategic Shift For Australian Defence - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Mike Pezzullo on the Strategic Shift For Australian Defence, 21 April 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) Australia as... Apr 20 Shaping a Way Ahead for Australian Maritime Strategy - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Shaping a Way Ahead for Australian Maritime Strategy, 20 April 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) The Williams... Apr 16 Multi-Domain Operations in the Maritime Domain: The Significance of Digital Interoperability - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Multi-Domain Operations in the Maritime Domain: The Significance of Digital Interoperability, 16 April 2024 Link to... Apr 16 What does a 21st century defence strategy look like for Australia in a multi-polar authoritarian world? - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, What does a 21st century defence strategy look like for Australia in a multi-polar authoritarian world?, 16 April 2024... Apr 15 The Future is Now for the ADF: Shaping Space for Maritime Autonomous Systems - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Future is Now for the ADF: Shaping Space for Maritime Autonomous Systems, 15 April 2024 Link to article... Apr 14 Working the Sustainability Piece in Australian Defence: The Case of Munitions - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Working the Sustainability Piece in Australian Defence: The Case of Munitions, 10 April 2024 Link to article... Apr 14 Multi-Domain Requirements of an Australian Maritime Strategy - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Multi-Domain Requirements of an Australian Maritime Strategy: The April 2024 Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar, ... Apr 14 Managing Trade-Offs in Force Structure Development - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Managing Trade-Offs in Force Structure Development, 13 April 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) When a nation is... Oct 8, 2023 The Strike Enterprise and the Royal Air Force - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Strike Enterprise and the Royal Air Force, 3 Oct 2023 Link to article (Defense.info) Storm Shadow – Take off Warton... Oct 8, 2023 Preparedness and Fighting with the Force You Have Now - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Deterrence and Multi-Domain Strike: The Perspective of PACAF 8 Oct 2023 Link to article (Defense.info) I have had the... Oct 8, 2023 Conference: Final Report - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Final Report, 8 Oct 2023 Oct 7, 2023 Reshaping Australian Defence Infrastructure and Leveraging Australian Territory - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Reshaping Australian Defence Infrastructure and Leveraging Australian Territory, 7 Oct 2023 Link to article... Oct 6, 2023 Shaping a Way Ahead for Australian Defence: The Perspective of Malcolm Davis - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Shaping a Way Ahead for Australian Defence: The Perspective of Malcolm Davis, 6 October 2023 Link to article... Oct 6, 2023 Deterrence and Multi-Domain Strike: The Perspective of PACAF - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Deterrence and Multi-Domain Strike: The Perspective of PACAF 6 Oct 2023 Link to article (Defense.info) What is the... Oct 6, 2023 ISR, Counter-ISR, C2 and Multi-Domain Strike - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, ISR, Counter-ISR, C2 and Multi-Domain Strike, 6 October 2023 Link to article (Defense.info) The featured photo is a... Oct 6, 2023 The Multi-Domain Strike Enterprise: Building and Providing the Weapons - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Multi-Domain Strike Enterprise: Building and Providing the Weapons, 6 October 2023 Link to article (Defense.info)... Oct 5, 2023 Deterrence by Denial, Impactful Projection, Proportionate Response - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Deterrence by Denial, Impactful Projection, Proportionate Response and Multi-Domain Strike, 5 October 2023 Link to... Oct 5, 2023 What has Happened Since the DSR has been Published: Marcus Hellyer - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, What has Happened Since the DSR has been Published: The Perspective of Marcus Hellyer, 5 October 2023 Link to article... Oct 4, 2023 21st Century Authoritarian Powers: Progress and Paths Forward - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Challenge of Dealing with the 21st Century Authoritarian Powers: Progress and Paths Forward, 4 Oct 2023 Link to... Oct 3, 2023 Maritime Autonomous Systems and the Operational Force: How to Accelerate the Effort-Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Maritime Autonomous Systems and the Operational Force: How to Accelerate the Effort? 3 Oct 2023 Link to article...

  • Competitions | Williams Foundation

    Competitions Dr Alan Stephens Air Power Literary Prize A core objective of The Sir Richard Williams Foundation is to encourage informed discussion and debate on future air power capability. Accordingly, the Foundation is committed to supporting our future leaders and the development of their ideas. One way in which this has occurred has been through submissions to The Central Blue, an online forum encouraging informed discussion on air and space power, and the related force design issues affecting Australia. A foundational member of The Central Blue, Dr Alan Stephens has a long history of supporting this cause. Previously a lecturer at UNSW, RAAF historian, adviser in federal parliament on foreign affairs and defence, and a member of the RAAF, Dr Stephens has published and lectured extensively. In 2008 he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his contribution to Royal Australian Air Force history and air power strategy. In partnership with The Central Blue, The Williams Foundation has awarded a regular prize of A$500 for the best essay or article discussing the author's perspectives on a theme determined by the Central Blue Team. These winning essays or articles have then been published on The Central Blue forum.

  • PeopleDEMO | Williams Foundation

    ABOUT I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It’s easy. Just click “Edit Text” or double click me to add your own content and make changes to the font. Feel free to drag and drop me anywhere you like on your page. I’m a great place for you to tell a story and let your users know a little more about you. TEAM NAME TITLE I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. I’m a great place for you to tell a story and let your users know a little more about you. NAME TITLE I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. I’m a great place for you to tell a story and let your users know a little more about you. NAME TITLE I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. I’m a great place for you to tell a story and let your users know a little more about you.

  • Expert Analysis | Williams Foundation

    Expert Analysis In-depth thinking by our highly experienced network of military scholars and practitioners. ​ ​ Oct 7 7 min read Defence Industry in Australia: Building Strategic Depth and Resilience in Support of the Ready Force - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Defence Industry in Australia: Building Strategic Depth and Resilience in Support of the Ready Force, 7 October 2024... Oct 7 5 min read Enabling and Defending the National Information Society: The Space Dimension - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Enabling and Defending the National Information Society: The Space Dimension, 7 October 2024 Link to article... Oct 7 4 min read Shaping a Way Ahead for Airpower in a Contested Region: The Perspective of Air Vice Marshal Glen Braz - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Shaping a Way Ahead for Airpower in a Contested Region: The Perspective of Air Vice Marshal Glen Braz, 7 October 2024... Oct 5 4 min read The Challenge of Shaping the Way Ahead for the Ready Force and Preparing for Future Threats - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Challenge of Shaping the Way Ahead for the Ready Force and Preparing for Future Threats, 5 October 2024 Link to... Oct 4 5 min read How Does the Ready Force Deal with a Rapidly Changing Operational Environment? - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, How Does the Ready Force Deal with a Rapidly Changing Operational Environment? 4 October 2024 Link to article... Oct 3 6 min read The Chief of the Australian Army Explains How They are Dealing with the Simultaneous Challenges of the Three R’s - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Chief of the Australian Army Explains How They are Dealing with the Simultaneous Challenges of the Three R’s, 3... Oct 2 11 min read Building Combat Mass: An Air Force Perspective - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Building Combat Mass: An Air Force Perspective, 2 October 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) The panel on combat mass... Oct 1 12 min read The Force in Being to Protect the Nation: It's More than the ADF’s Role - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Force in Being to Protect the Nation: Its More than the ADF’s Role, 1 October 2024 Link to article (Defense.info)... Sep 30 7 min read Building Combat Mass: A Navy Perspective - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Building Combat Mass: A Navy Perspective, 30 September 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) When you are a medium-sized... Sep 29 5 min read The Challenge for Defence Readiness: The Impact of Politics - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Challenge for Defence Readiness: The Impact of Politics, 29 September 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) If one is... Sep 28 7 min read The Perspective of Australia’s AUKUS Partners on Shaping the Way Ahead for Airpower - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Perspective of Australia’s AUKUS Partners on Shaping the Way Ahead for Airpower , 28 September 2024 Link to article... Sep 27 6 min read The September 26, 2024 Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar: An Initial Take - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The September 26, 2024 Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar: An Initial Take, 27 September 2024 Link to article... Sep 26 2 min read Conference Proceedings: Enhancing and Accelerating the Integrated Force: An Operational Perspective Dr Robbin Laird Final Report: Enhancing and Accelerating the Integrated Force: An Operational Perspective - will be released in October... Sep 7 4 min read Shaping a Way Ahead for Airpower in a Contested Region: The Perspective of Air Vice Marshal Glen Braz - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Shaping a Way Ahead for Airpower in a Contested Region: The Perspective of Air Vice Marshal Glen Braz, 7 October 2024... Jul 26 1 min read Military personnel and bases left exposed to missile threats The Foundation’s Chair, Air Marshal (Retd) Geoff Brown AO, who is also the former Chief of Air Force, was quoted in the public media this... May 17 2 min read Conference Proceedings: The Multi-Domain Requirements of an Australian Maritime Strategy Dr Robbin Laird Final Report: The Multi-Domain Requirements of an Australian Maritime Strategy 11 April 2024 More articles from Dr Laird... May 16 6 min read The Strategic Shift in Australian Defence Requires a Shift in the Approach for Australian Defence Industry - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Strategic Shift in Australian Defence Requires a Shift in the Approach for Australian Defence Industry, 16 May 2024... May 14 3 min read A Focused Force: Autonomous Systems and a Distributed ISR Enterprise - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, A Focused Force: Autonomous Systems and a Distributed ISR Enterprise, 14 May 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) As the... May 9 4 min read Australia’s New Defence Strategy: Reshaping the ADF into a Focused Force - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Australia’s New Defence Strategy: Reshaping the ADF into a Focused Force, 9 May 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) The... May 9 9 min read Layered ISR and a Focused Force - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Layered ISR and a Focused Force, 9 May 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) If you want to shape an effective focused... May 7 4 min read Shaping C2 for the ADF and Coalition Forces: The Perspective of Air Vice Marshal Mike Kitcher - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Shaping C2 for the ADF and Coalition Forces: The Perspective of Air Vice Marshal Mike Kitcher, 7 May 2024 Link to... May 6 6 min read RPAs, Autonomous Systems and How to Strengthen the ADF in the Next 3-5 Years - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, RPAs, Autonomous Systems and How to Strengthen the ADF in the Next 3-5 Years, 6 May 2024 Link to article (Defense.info)... May 5 8 min read Cognitive and Information War and the “Gray Zone” - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Cognitive and Information War and the “Gray Zone”, 5 May 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) An aspect of modern... May 4 4 min read How to Enhance Space’s Contribution to Australian Multi-Domain Operations in Support of Maritime Operations - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, How to Enhance Space’s Contribution to Australian Multi-Domain Operations in Support of Maritime Operations, 4 May 2024... May 2 4 min read How to Build a Focused Force for Australia’s Extant Strategic Environment? - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, How to Build a Focused Force for Australia’s Extant Strategic Environment?, 2 May 2024 Link to article (Defense.info)... Apr 30 5 min read Logistics and Sustainment for an Evolving Defence of Australia Strategy - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Logistics and Sustainment for an Evolving Defence of Australia Strategy, 30 April 2024 Link to article (Defense.info)... Apr 29 15 min read Multi-Domain Operations in Australia’s Maritime Strategy: The Army, Navy, and Air Force Orient Their Efforts - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Multi-Domain Operations in Australia’s Maritime Strategy: The Army, Navy, and Air Force Orient Their Efforts, 29 April... Apr 26 7 min read Aligning Airpower Capabilities with Australia’s Maritime Strategy - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Aligning Airpower Capabilities with Australia’s Maritime Strategy, 26 April 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) At the... Apr 24 4 min read Conceptualizing Australia’s Maritime Strategy and Shaping a Government Approach - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Conceptualizing Australia’s Maritime Strategy and Shaping a Government Approach, 24 April 2024 Link to article... Apr 23 6 min read Shaping Space for Autonomous Systems in the Operating Force: The Case of the Loyal Wingman - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Shaping Space for Autonomous Systems in the Operating Force: The Case of the Loyal Wingman, 23 April 2024 Link to... Apr 21 7 min read Air Power in Australia’s Maritime Strategy - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Air Power in Australia’s Maritime Strategy, 21 April 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) This was the title of the... Apr 21 4 min read Mike Pezzullo on the Strategic Shift For Australian Defence - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Mike Pezzullo on the Strategic Shift For Australian Defence, 21 April 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) Australia as... Apr 20 6 min read Shaping a Way Ahead for Australian Maritime Strategy - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Shaping a Way Ahead for Australian Maritime Strategy, 20 April 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) The Williams... Apr 16 5 min read Multi-Domain Operations in the Maritime Domain: The Significance of Digital Interoperability - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Multi-Domain Operations in the Maritime Domain: The Significance of Digital Interoperability, 16 April 2024 Link to... Apr 16 4 min read What does a 21st century defence strategy look like for Australia in a multi-polar authoritarian world? - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, What does a 21st century defence strategy look like for Australia in a multi-polar authoritarian world?, 16 April 2024... Apr 15 4 min read The Future is Now for the ADF: Shaping Space for Maritime Autonomous Systems - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Future is Now for the ADF: Shaping Space for Maritime Autonomous Systems, 15 April 2024 Link to article... Apr 14 4 min read Working the Sustainability Piece in Australian Defence: The Case of Munitions - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Working the Sustainability Piece in Australian Defence: The Case of Munitions, 10 April 2024 Link to article... Apr 14 5 min read Multi-Domain Requirements of an Australian Maritime Strategy - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Multi-Domain Requirements of an Australian Maritime Strategy: The April 2024 Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar, ... Apr 14 4 min read Managing Trade-Offs in Force Structure Development - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Managing Trade-Offs in Force Structure Development, 13 April 2024 Link to article (Defense.info) When a nation is... Dec 13, 2023 7 min read Thinking CAP: air superiority and Australia’s defence by Chris McInnes Chris McInnes, Thinking CAP: air superiority and Australia’s defence, 10 December 2023 A misunderstanding of air power is distorting... Oct 8, 2023 1 min read Conference: Final Report - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Final Report, 8 Oct 2023 Oct 1, 2023 4 min read The DSR and the Australian Strike Enterprise - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The DSR and the Australian Strike Enterprise 30 Sep 2023 Link to article (Defense.info) We need to start first with... Oct 1, 2023 2 min read Considering the Nature of Strike and Its Role in Deterrence Strategy - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Considering the Nature of Strike and Its Role in Deterrence Strategy, 1 Oct 2023 Link to article (Defense.info) At the... Sep 29, 2023 11 min read Summary Outcomes: Conference September 2023 - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar September 2023: The Enterprise Requirements of an Australian Multi-Domain... Sep 28, 2023 1 min read Conference Proceedings: The Enterprise Requirements of an Australian Multi-Domain Strike Capability The Enterprise Requirements of an Australian Multi-Domain Strike Capability National Gallery of Australia, 27 September 2023 Dr Robbin... May 11, 2023 6 min read The Role of Maritime Autonomous Systems - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Role of Maritime Autonomous Systems: Mission Thread Capabilities to Meet the Needs of Modern Warfare, 11 May 2023... May 9, 2023 4 min read Rethinking Sustainable Defence Forces: A Discussion with Dr. Alan Dupont - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Rethinking Sustainable Defence Forces: A Discussion with Dr. Alan Dupont, 9 May 2023 Link to article (Defense.info) In... Apr 20, 2023 1 min read Conference Final Report: Sharpening the Edge of Australia’s National Deterrence Capability Final Report: Sharpening the Edge of Australia’s National Deterrence Capability National Gallery of Australia 30 March 2023 Final Report... Apr 18, 2023 3 min read Deterrence in Shaping Australia’s Path in the Global Transition - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Deterrence in Shaping Australia’s Path in the Global Transition, 18 April 2023 Link to article (Defense.info) As global... Apr 17, 2023 3 min read The Role of Geography in the Direct Defence of Australia - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Role of Geography in the Direct Defence of Australia, 17 April 2023 Link to article (Defense.info) As Australia...

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