EVENTS EVENTS Our events are a fusion of unique insights 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 seminars, 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 Williams Foundation Errol McCormack Lunch - Air Vice-Marshal Di Turton, AM Tue, 17 Nov More info Book What to expect The Foundation organises a range of events through the calendar year. Find out more about each series and their format. Seminars Errol McCormack Member Lunches Annual Sponsors and Supporters Dinner Errol McCormack Member Lunches The Williams Foundation hosts 4 member lunches annually in Canberra. Keynote speakers include senior military, public officials and industry presenting on a range of current, operational and strategic topics Frequency: Quarterly Attendees: Members and invited VIP guests Cost to members: Complimentary Location: Canberra Registration Details: Essential - places are limited and registrations are on a first in basis Day Seminars The Williams Foundation hosts 2 x one-day seminars per year that link to our strategic outlook framework set by the Board. Frequency: Biannually Attendees: Defence personnel, members, sponsors & invited VIP guests Cost to members: Complimentary for members and Defence personnel Location: Canberra Registration Details: Essential - places are limited and registrations are on a first in basis Annual Sponsors and Supporters Dinner Held annually the Sponsors and Supporters VIP Dinner is a small dinner with senior leaders. Invitations are sent to senior military and Defence leaders, industry and politicians. Frequency: Annually Attendees: Invited VIP guests include senior military and Defence personnel and politicians Access: 1 x place each for Corporate Partners, Sponsors and Premium Annual Corporate Members. Location: Canberra Recent Event Highlights Our events focus on the contemporary issues facing the defence & security of Australia. See a list of our past events at this link and see more detailed proceedings from our past events below. 01 OCTOBER 2026 The Requirement for Air Combat Mass and Depth in the Indo-Pacific This seminar examined how Australia could generate the air combat mass, depth and reach needed to sustain credible deterrence by denial in an increasingly contested Indo-Pacific. Building on the “Fight Tonight” theme, it focused on the ability to keep fighting through a prolonged high-end conflict, framing air superiority and survivable long-range strike as essential to the Integrated Force’s freedom of action. The discussion explored how crewed and uncrewed systems, including Collaborative Combat Aircraft, could expand combat capacity, improve survivability and reduce the vulnerabilities of a small fleet of highly capable platforms. The program brought together military, strategic and industry perspectives on force multiplication, building mass with industry, workforce, training and mission rehearsal, alongside the basing, replenishment, logistics and supply chains needed to turn technological advantage into scalable, enduring combat power. Seminar Program 1/12 23 APRIL 2026 Fight Tonight: Exploiting Australia's Strategic Advantage This seminar examined how Australia could convert its enduring “home-team” advantages into credible deterrence and near-term combat readiness, with a particular focus on the “Fight Tonight” challenge in a tightening Indo-Pacific strategic environment. The discussion framed choices across geography, basing, workforce, training, industry, space, munitions, logistics and critical infrastructure, asking how Defence could exploit continental depth, allied integration and the national support base while identifying vulnerabilities that could be exposed in crisis. The program featured contributions from senior Defence leaders, allied and analytical perspectives, and industry speakers, including sessions on combat mass and depth, operational tempo, survivability through dispersal and redundancy, capability acceleration, collaborative combat systems, and preparedness across replenishment, supply chains and infrastructure. Seminar Program 1/8 18 SEPTEMBER 2025 Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance This seminar built on the earlier “accelerating critical capabilities” theme by focusing on combat readiness, responsiveness, and the agility of air power as strategic conditions deteriorate. It highlighted the importance of national resilience and argued that sustained investment in air domain sustainment directly underpinned availability, capability, and readiness - particularly as Defence shifts into NDS Epoch 2 amid inflationary and prioritisation pressures. The day brought together RAAF, Defence, industry and expert voices to examine trends in air defence and strike, industrial mobilisation and exports, synchronisation of space/cyber/electromagnetic effects, and practical command perspectives on being ready to “fight tonight.” Seminar Program 1/5 Event Proceedings PastProceedings Download presentation packs, speeches and other materials from our previous events. Plus, see a Full List of past events here. Reflections on Fifth Generation and the Challenge of Understudying Airpower Transformation “The airplane was never the only point.” By Robbin Laird. Lt. Col. Chip Berke, one of the first Marine pilots to fly the F-22, used to make a point about the iPhone. When Steve Jobs introduced it, he described three devices in one. Nobody describes it that way now. What proved revolutionary was the ecosystem that grew up around the phone. The same is true of fifth-generation airpower. For two decades, the West argued about the airplane: its cost, its schedule, its software, i The next generation of airpower is not an aircraft. It is the capacity to fight night after night, week after week, month after month “The next generation of airpower is not an aircraft. It is the capacity to fight night after night, week after week, month after month.” By Robbin Laird. The Sir Richard Williams Foundation seminar in Canberra on 1 October was framed around a platform question: does Australia have enough air combat mass? By the end of the day, almost nobody in the room was answering it that way. Operators, industry executives and visiting commanders kept reaching for the same ideas: sustainme Five Aviators on the Way Ahead for Airpower “If the platform is a node, the enterprise is the weapon.” By Robbin Laird. At the Sir Richard Williams Foundation’s October 1 seminar in Canberra, three sessions on air combat mass and depth said more together than any one of them said alone. Air Marshal Paul Lloyd spoke from the European theatre, where the RAF is resetting its combat air strategy around a war on its own continent. Air Commodore Jarrod Pendlebury and Wing Commander Chris McInnes made the national case for ai Generating Combat Mass by Doing More with What You Have “Combat mass doesn’t always require buying more. Sometimes it requires thinking differently about what you have.” By Robbin Laird. At the Williams Foundation seminar on October 1, Air Commodore (Retd) Phil Gordon, a former RAAF Joint Force Air Component Commander who now works at Lockheed Martin Australia, was expected to make the case for more platforms. He set that aside. His argument was that combat mass can come from having more things to call on, or from doing more with Building Mass with Industry: Industrial Capacity Is Combat Power “It’s not an industry problem; it’s a combat power problem.” By Robbin Laird. At the Sir Richard Williams Foundation seminar on October 1, Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Robert Denney of Northrop Grumman made an argument that cuts against how most air forces spend their money. Denney spent 33 years in the RAAF, including as Head of Air Force Capability and Head of Force Integration. He says the tacticians, himself included in his day, have been optimizing the wrong part of the prob Combat Depth, Not Just Mass: Collaborative Combat Aircraft and the Australian Industrial Base “In 1937, John Curtin argued that Australia’s defence must lie in aviation. Ninety years later, the country is having the same conversation with different technology.” By Robbin Laird. At the Sir Richard Williams Foundation seminar in Canberra on 1 October, a panel on collaborative combat aircraft and Australian industry made an argument that cuts against the popular debate. The popular picture is simple. Buy large numbers of cheap uncrewed platforms because you expect to los 1 2 3 4 5

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. Reflections on Fifth Generation and the Challenge of Understudying Airpower Transformation “The airplane was never the only point.” By Robbin Laird. Lt. Col. Chip Berke, one of the first Marine pilots to fly the F-22, used to make a point about the iPhone. When Steve Jobs introduced it, he described three devices in one. Nobody describes it that way now. What proved revolutionary was the ecosystem that grew up around the phone. The same is true of fifth-generation airpower. For two decades, the West argued about the airplane: its cost, its schedule, its software, i 3 days ago The next generation of airpower is not an aircraft. It is the capacity to fight night after night, week after week, month after month “The next generation of airpower is not an aircraft. It is the capacity to fight night after night, week after week, month after month.” By Robbin Laird. The Sir Richard Williams Foundation seminar in Canberra on 1 October was framed around a platform question: does Australia have enough air combat mass? By the end of the day, almost nobody in the room was answering it that way. Operators, industry executives and visiting commanders kept reaching for the same ideas: sustainme 5 days ago Five Aviators on the Way Ahead for Airpower “If the platform is a node, the enterprise is the weapon.” By Robbin Laird. At the Sir Richard Williams Foundation’s October 1 seminar in Canberra, three sessions on air combat mass and depth said more together than any one of them said alone. Air Marshal Paul Lloyd spoke from the European theatre, where the RAF is resetting its combat air strategy around a war on its own continent. Air Commodore Jarrod Pendlebury and Wing Commander Chris McInnes made the national case for ai Oct 21 Generating Combat Mass by Doing More with What You Have “Combat mass doesn’t always require buying more. Sometimes it requires thinking differently about what you have.” By Robbin Laird. At the Williams Foundation seminar on October 1, Air Commodore (Retd) Phil Gordon, a former RAAF Joint Force Air Component Commander who now works at Lockheed Martin Australia, was expected to make the case for more platforms. He set that aside. His argument was that combat mass can come from having more things to call on, or from doing more with Oct 19 Building Mass with Industry: Industrial Capacity Is Combat Power “It’s not an industry problem; it’s a combat power problem.” By Robbin Laird. At the Sir Richard Williams Foundation seminar on October 1, Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Robert Denney of Northrop Grumman made an argument that cuts against how most air forces spend their money. Denney spent 33 years in the RAAF, including as Head of Air Force Capability and Head of Force Integration. He says the tacticians, himself included in his day, have been optimizing the wrong part of the prob Oct 16 Combat Depth, Not Just Mass: Collaborative Combat Aircraft and the Australian Industrial Base “In 1937, John Curtin argued that Australia’s defence must lie in aviation. Ninety years later, the country is having the same conversation with different technology.” By Robbin Laird. At the Sir Richard Williams Foundation seminar in Canberra on 1 October, a panel on collaborative combat aircraft and Australian industry made an argument that cuts against the popular debate. The popular picture is simple. Buy large numbers of cheap uncrewed platforms because you expect to los Oct 14 Mass Without Depth Is Temporary “A thousand aircraft orbiting outside an adversary’s engagement envelope do not provide the combat power of a hundred able to penetrate it.” Oct 13 Deterring Whom? Michael Pezzullo and Australia’s Missing National Defence Strategy “Deterrence, absent a grounding in actuality, is dangerous.” Oct 13 Geostrategic Perspectives: Securing Australia in a Fractured World Air power, like every other instrument of defence, is only as durable as the national will behind it. Oct 8 Mass without depth is brittle What does sufficient air combat mass and depth look like for the Indo-Pacific, and is the country building it? Oct 8 Watching Australian Airpower Cross Three Thresholds "Historian of the Seminars", a phrase I've earned the hard way: a decade of notebooks, one Williams Foundation seminar at a time. By Robbin Laird. Sep 28 The Requirement for Air Combat Mass and Depth in the Indo-Pacific "If we're not at the table, we're on the menu" applies to air forces too — except in this case, the table is the sky over the Indo-Pacific, and without it, nothing else survives. Sep 27 Space as a Fight Tonight Domain: Jeremy King on Australia’s Strategic Imperative 'Space as a Fight Tonight Domain: Jeremy King on Australia’s Strategic Imperative' in Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance Proceedings - Paper 5, Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar, 23 April 2026 By Robbin Laird Jeremy King speaking to the 23 April 2026 Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar. At the Williams Foundation Seminar on the Fight Tonight Force held on 23 April 2026, Jeremy King’s, Chief Executive of Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealan May 2 Training as Combat Generation: The Case for a Systems Approach 'Training as Combat Generation: The Case for a Systems Approach' in Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance Proceedings - Paper 4, Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar, 23 April 2026 By Robbin Laird Alexander Robinson speaking to the 23 April 2026 Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar. One of the more thought-provoking presentations at the seminar came from Alexander Robinson, Sales and Capability Director at Pilatus Aircraft Australia. Robinson opened May 1 From Prototypes to Operational Realities: Australia’s Maritime Autonomous Systems Unit and the Tasks That Cannot Wait 'From Prototypes to Operational Realities: Australia’s Maritime Autonomous Systems Unit and the Tasks That Cannot Wait' Interview with Marcus Hellyer, Head of Research at Strategic Analysis Australia By Robbin Laird Alexander Robinson speaking to the 23 April 2026 Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar. Australia’s Maritime Autonomous Systems Unit, the MASU, stands at an inflection point. The period of experimentation and prototype evaluation that has defined the past severa May 1 Air and Missile Defense, Precision Strike, and the Indo-Pacific: Lessons from Ukraine and the Gulf 'Air and Missile Defense, Precision Strike, and the Indo-Pacific: Lessons from Ukraine and the Gulf' in Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance Proceedings - Paper 3, Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar, 23 April 2026 By Robbin Laird At the Sir Richard Williams seminar held on 23 April 2026 focused on the fight tonight challenge, Justin Bronk delivered a presentation that cut through a great deal of the conceptual noise currently cluttering Western defen Apr 29 From Boutique Concern to Existential Question: Logistics, Sustainment and Combat Power 'From Boutique Concern to Existential Question: Logistics, Sustainment and Combat Power' Interview with Dr. David Beaumont By Robbin Laird During a visit to Canberra in April 2026, I had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. David Beaumont, writer at the website ‘The Paper War’ (formerly ‘Logistics In War’), and one of the most persistent advocates for taking logistics seriously as a strategic discipline. For years, Beaumont has argued that logistics and sustainment sit at the Apr 29 Ten Months, Not Ten Years: Mike Pezzullo on Australia’s Strategic Moment 'Ten Months, Not Ten Years: Mike Pezzullo on Australia’s Strategic Moment' in Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance Proceedings - Paper 2, Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar, 23 April 2026 By Dr Robbin Laird There is a particular kind of clarity that comes from a man who spent four decades inside the machinery of Australian national security and is now, as he put it, “free” to speak. Mike Pezzullo, former Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs an Apr 28 So how to exploit Australia’s strategic advantages? 'So how to exploit Australia’s strategic advantages?' in Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance Proceedings - Paper 1, Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar, 23 April 2026 By Dr Robbin Laird ACM (Retd) Mark Binskin AC, Chair, Sir Richard Williams Foundation, opening the seminar on 23 April 2026. The Sir Richard Williams Foundation seminar of 23 April 2026 brought together practitioners, analysts, industry leaders and allies to confront a deceptively simpl Apr 26 Navigating the New Normal: A Paradigm Shift in Australian Defence Policy Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance - Paper #12 By Dr Robbin Laird The contemporary Indo-Pacific security environment presents a fundamental challenge to traditional alliance structures: how can middle powers maintain strategic autonomy while deepening military cooperation with major power partners? This dilemma is particularly acute for Australia, which faces the competing imperatives of economic integration with China, security dependence on the United Oct 5, 2025 Unlocking Military Potential: The Immediate Opportunities in Uncrewed Systems Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance - Paper #11 By Dr Robbin Laird The recent Williams Foundation seminar on military readiness did not really highlight or provide detailed perspectives on how uncrewed systems could empower the fight tonight force and help drive the ongoing operational re-design process which is becoming a key part of military readiness. Australia finds itself positioned to leverage this technological moment. With sophisticated defence s Oct 3, 2025 Reimagining Maritime Security: Australia’s Collaborative Approach to Uncrewed Systems Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance - Interview Paper #10 By Dr Robbin Laird Australia faces one of the world’s most daunting maritime security challenges. With 37,000 kilometers of coastline and the third-largest exclusive economic zone globally, the Australian Maritime Border Command must protect an area so vast that traditional approaches simply cannot scale effectively. To put this in perspective, Australia’s maritime responsibility covers more ocean Oct 1, 2025 Rethinking Defence Logistics: The Strategic Imperative for Change Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance - Conference Paper #9 By Dr Robbin Laird In an era of shifting geopolitical dynamics and evolving security challenges, traditional approaches to defence logistics and industrial cooperation are proving fundamentally inadequate. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has starkly illustrated that modern warfare demands not just superior firepower, but the ability to sustain, adapt, and surge capabilities at unprecedented speed Sep 30, 2025 Beyond Fight Tonight: Building Resilience and Capacity Across Defence and Industry Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance - Conference Proceedings #8 By Dr Robbin Laird The ghost of inadequate preparation haunts modern military planning. Mrs. Marion Chapman’s 1949 letter to the Department of Air, lamenting her son’s death in the Pacific War, carries a haunting accusation that resonates today: “he, with others, was so poorly equipped, directed and eventually abandoned.” This stark reminder opened the panel discussion on building resilience Sep 29, 2025 Building Australia’s Defence Industrial Base: The Strategic Imperative for Early Investment and Sovereign Capability Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance - Conference Proceedings #7 By Dr Robbin Laird In an era of growing strategic uncertainty, Australia faces a fundamental question about its defence posture: how does a geographically isolated continent-nation sustain military operations when global supply chains fail? Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Robert Denney, now Country Executive for Northrop Grumman Australia, delivered a compelling answer in a recent presentation th Sep 27, 2025 UK Strategic Defence Review 2025: Transforming Air Power for a New Era of Threats Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance - Conference Proceedings #6 By Dr Robbin Laird Air Commodore Alun Roberts, Head Air to Air Missiles Royal Air Force, outlined in a virtual presentation to the seminar, Britain’s ambitious defence transformation in response to evolving global security challenges. The United Kingdom’s recently published Strategic Defence Review (SDR) 2025 represents nothing sa paradigm shift in British defence thinking. He argued that is Sep 25, 2025 Learning from History: Australia’s Defence Industrial Mobilization Imperative Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance - Conference Proceedings #5 By Dr Robbin Laird In an era of unprecedented global uncertainty, Australia faces a critical question: Can the nation mobilize its industrial base quickly enough to meet emerging security challenges? According to Matt Jones (seen above in the featured photo), Head of Future Business Defence Delivery at BAE Systems Australia, the answer lies not in waiting for crisis to justify action, but in Sep 24, 2025 The Invisible Battle: Synchronizing Non-Kinetic Effects in Modern Warfare Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance - Conference Proceedings #4 By Dr Robbin Laird From left: AVM (Retd) Zed Roberton DSC, AM, Professor Justin Bronk, GPCAPT Steven Thornton, LTGEN Susan Coyle AM, CSC, DSM The nature of warfare is fundamentally unchanged — it remains a contest of political will between adversaries. However, the character of how wars are fought has transformed dramatically. In an era where conflicts can be decided before the first missile Sep 22, 2025 Rethinking Military Transformation: From Platform-Centric to Threat-Informed Innovation Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance - Conference Proceedings #3 By Dr Robbin Laird The nature of military transformation has fundamentally changed. Where once armed forces could afford to develop new platforms over decades and then figure out how to use them, today’s security environment demands a completely different approach. This shift represents perhaps the most significant change in military thinking since the advent of combined arms warfare itself. Sep 22, 2025 The Air Defence Reality Check: Why Australia Has Less Time Than It Thinks Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance - Conference Proceedings #2 By Dr Robbin Laird For decades, integrated air and missile defence has been synonymous with ballistic missile defence, Patriots and Aegis systems standing guard against incoming rockets. But Professor Justin Bronk of the Royal United Service Institute delivered a stark wake-up call at the seminar: the modern threat spectrum demands a fundamental rethink of air defence, and the timeline for p Sep 19, 2025 Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance: Preparing for Tomorrow’s Conflicts Today Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance - Conference Proceedings #1 By Dr Robbin Laird On September 18, 2025, the Sir Richard Williams Foundation held its 2nd seminar for the year which was entitled: “Fight Tonight: Combat Readiness at the Speed of Relevance.” I will highlight the presentations at the conference in a series of articles over the next few weeks. I will conclude the series with an article providing my perceptions of what were the major answers Sep 18, 2025 The Imperative for Cost Effectiveness in Multidomain Operations: Final Report - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Imperative for Cost Effectiveness in Multidomain Operations: Final Report, 22 May 2025 Link to ebook (Defense.info) Jun 17, 2025 Shaping a Way Ahead for Autonomous Defence Capabilities for the ADF - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Shaping a Way Ahead for Autonomous Defence Capabilities for the ADF by Denial, 17 June 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) Australian Army Drone Racing Team pilots were presented the Inter-Service Championship Team award by Air Vice-Marshal Nicholas Hogan, CSC – Head of Air Capability, during a drone racing event at the Australian International Airshow 2025 at Avalon Airport. March 3, 2025. Credit: Australian Department of Defence On June 5, 2025, I had a cha Jun 17, 2025 Strategic Transformation for a New Era: Reworking the Australian’s Army’s Role in Australian Defence - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Strategic Transformation for a New Era: Reworking the Australian’s Army’s Role in Australian Defence, 16 June 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) The Australian Army is undergoing what its leadership describes as the most significant transformation since World War II, fundamentally reshaping itself for an era of great power competition in the Indo-Pacific. This comprehensive adaptation, driven by the 2023 Defence Strategic Review, represents both a strategic Jun 16, 2025 Australia and the Way Ahead with Autonomous Systems - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Australia and the Way Ahead with Autonomous Systems, 15 June 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) During my visit to Australia in May-June 2025, I have focused significantly on the coming of autonomous systems and how to incorporate them effectively into the Australian Defence Force and for security operations. I have published a new book which looks specifically at the paradigm shift in maritime operations and how maritime autonomous systems are key drivers i Jun 15, 2025 Reshaping Combined Arms Operations: Lessons Learned from Drone Warfare Operations - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Reshaping Combined Arms Operations: Lessons Learned from Drone Warfare Operations, 14 June 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) We have a growing experience with drone warfare and its impacts. The best way to understand their impact is how they have already re-shaped combined arms operations. Notably when combined with payload revolution and fifth generation warfare operations, as seen in the recent Israeli operation in Iran, drones are becoming a key part of Jun 14, 2025 The Autonomous Revolution: How Australia Could Transform Defense Through Maritime Robotics - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Autonomous Revolution: How Australia Could Transform Defense Through Maritime Robotics, 13 June 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) On May 28, 2025, Michael Shoebridge, Director of Strategic Analysis Australia, and I travelled to Melbourne, Australia to visit C2 Robotics which is described on its website as follows: “C2 Robotics specialises in the rapid development of cutting edge robotics and autonomous systems for Defence applications across the maritim Jun 13, 2025 The Maritime Revolution: How Autonomous Vessels Are Reshaping Naval Strategy - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Maritime Revolution: How Autonomous Vessels Are Reshaping Naval Strategy, 12 June 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) The era of autonomous maritime operations has quietly arrived, moving beyond experimental trials to become operational reality. A recent conversation with Robert Dane, CEO of OCIUS, underscores how autonomous vessels are fundamentally changing naval operations—and why traditional naval thinking must evolve to harness their potential. OCIUS Jun 12, 2025 Training for Modern Airpower Operations: How to Address the Challenges - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Training for Modern Airpower Operations: How to Address the Challenges, 9 June 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) On June 3, 2025, I had a chance to meet with Air Vice-Marshal Glen Braz, Air Commander Australia, to follow up on his participation in the Sir Richard Williams Foundation seminar held on May 23, 2025. What I specifically wanted to talk with him about is the key challenges facing training an air combat force which is fifth-generation enabled. As I Jun 9, 2025 Shaping a Way Ahead for the Australian Defence Force in the Context of Global Strategic Transition - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Shaping a Way Ahead for the Australian Defence Force in the Context of Global Strategic Transition, 3 June 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) At the May 22, 2025 Sir Richard Williams Foundation seminar, Air Marshal Robert Chipman, Vice Chief of the Australian Defence Forces, recently outlined the nation’s evolving approach to national security in a comprehensive address. Chipman describes Australia’s security environment as “complex and deteriorating,” with Jun 3, 2025 Australian Army’s Strategic Pivot: Adapting for the Indo-Pacific Century - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Training for Modern Airpower Operations: How to Address the Challenges, 3 June 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) I had the opportunity to meet with Lt. General Simon Stuart, Chief of the Australian Army in. his office on 19 May 2025. We discussed a specific aspect of the way ahead for the Australian Army, namely its role in Australian littoral operations. In an era where geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region are significant, the Australian Army i Jun 3, 2025 An Update on the Royal Australian Air Force: A Conversation with Air Marshal Chappell - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, An Update on the Royal Australian Air Force: A Conversation with Air Marshal Chappell, 2 June 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) At the May 22, 2025 Sir Richard Williams Foundation Seminar, Air Marshal Geoff Brown (Retd), former Chief of Air Force 2011-2015), talked with Air Marshal Chappell (current Chief of Air Force since July 2024) about the current state of the RAAF and the way ahead. Air Marshal Chappell emphasized that the Royal Australian Air Force i Jun 2, 2025 The Need to Speed Delivery for the Ready Force and Enabling a More Cost-Effective Future Force - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, The Need to Speed Delivery for the Ready Force and Enabling a More Cost-Effective Future Force, 1 June 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) The second panel during the Sir Richard Williams seminar held on May 22, 2025 was composed of members of the Australian defence industry and was chaired by Katherine Ziesing, Sir Richard Williams Foundation. She posed questions throughout and drove a more integrated discussion than would have occurred otherwise. The member Jun 1, 2025 Air Power and the Challenge of Shaping an Effective Ready Force Which Can Deliver Deterrence by Denial - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Air Power and the Challenge of Shaping an Effective Ready Force Which Can Deliver Deterrence by Denial, 29 May 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) The first of two panels held at the Sir Richard Williams Foundation seminar on May 22, 2025 was entitled a “Cost Per Effect” panel. It was chaired by Air Marshal (Retd) Darren Goldie and the panelists were: Air Vice Marshal Glen Braz, Air Commander Australia Professor Justin Bronk. Air Vice Marshal John Haly, Head May 29, 2025 Enhancing the Ready Force: Providing the Optimal Mix to Deliver the Desired Combat Effect - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Enhancing the Ready Force: Providing the Optimal Mix to Deliver the Desired Combat Effect, 28 May 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) Sustaining and equipping the ready force in dynamically changing operational conditions is a major challenge facing the ADF and those of its allies. A critical metric for evaluating approaches for how to deliver a cost desired effect is simply comparing the use of force packages or what I prefer to call the combat clusters up a May 28, 2025 Budgeting for an Enhanced Ready Force - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Budgeting for an Enhanced Ready Force, 27 May 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) If the strategic environment is driving an enhanced need to bulk up the capabilities of the ready force, where will the money come from to do so? And just as significantly, would recasting and reinforcing the fight tonight force with new means such as maritime autonomous systems change the approach to future force building? Dr. Marcus Hellyer, Head of Research at Strategic Analy May 27, 2025 Enhancing Non-Kinetic Capabilities in the Ready Force - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Enhancing Non-Kinetic Capabilities in the Ready Force, 26 May 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) At the 22 May 2025 Sir Richard Williams Foundation seminar, GPCAPT Marija Jovanovich, Chief of Staff of the Vice Chief of the Defence Force, underscored a crucial approach for enhancing the combat capability and success of the ready force. This is the ability of deceiving the adversary to the point whereby they simply do not know where best to strike and to not b May 26, 2025 A Blueprint for Action for the USAF: How to Enhance Combat Readiness to Meet the Strategic Challenges Facing the U.S. and Its Allies - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, A Blueprint for Action for the USAF: How to Enhance Combat Readiness to Meet the Strategic Challenges Facing the U.S. and Its Allies, 26 May 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) The United States Air Force stands at a critical crossroads. After decades of counterinsurgency operations and peacetime bureaucracy, America’s air arm faces an uncomfortable reality: it may not be adequately prepared for the high-intensity conflicts that could define the next decade. May 26, 2025 Putting the Nature of the Military Capability Threat from the Multi-Polar Authoritarian World in Perspective - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Putting the Nature of the Military Capability Threat from the Multi-Polar Authoritarian World in Perspective, 25 May 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) In assessing how the question of how to balance long-term force development versus the need to prioritize ways to enhance the ready force in the short to mid-term, a critical consideration is the nature and scope of the military and security threat posed by the global players – the multi-polar authoritarian w May 25, 2025 Dr. Marcus Hellyer on Breaking the Autonomous Systems Defence Employment Barrier - Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird, Dr. Marcus Hellyer on Breaking the Autonomous Systems Defence Employment Barrier, 24 May 2025 Link to article (Defense.info) On May 22, 2025, I had a chance to talk with Dr. Marcus Hellyer about a key problem which was raised during his presentation yesterday at the Sir Richard Williams Foundation seminar. Australia faces its most challenging strategic environment since World War II, yet its defense establishment remains locked in outdated thinking that could May 24, 2025

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Future Leaders Program The Sir Richard Williams Foundation has launched its inaugural Future Leaders Program in 2026 for 14 participants nominated by Chief of Navy, Chief of Army, Chief of Air Force, Chief of Operations, Chief of Joint Capabilities and Deputy Secretary Capability Acquisition and Sustainment. The one-year Program is designed to provide a professional development opportunity for emerging ADF and Defence civilian leaders by giving them access to contemporary thinking by Defence and industry leaders, Foundation Directors and other national security experts at Foundation-hosted events. In 2026, the Foundation's events will be focused on the development of the Objective Integrated Force (2026–2030) and the Future Integrated Force (2031 and beyond), supporting an ADF that is capable, resilient and fit for purpose across all domains. Participants will be able to engage directly with these contemporary strategic challenges, including by contributing their own insights. At the end of their one-year Program, participants will be encouraged to stay connected with the Foundation as it further develops its strategic themes informed by the National Defence Strategy 2026 (NDS26) and beyond. For more information, contact our Business Manager at info@williamsfoundation.org.au 1/7

ABOUT US ABOUT US The Sir Richard Williams Foundation is a for-purpose, not-for-profit organisation Find our more about our role, governance arrangements, and history. Our role The Sir Richard Williams Foundation is an independent organisation whose primary purpose is to strengthen Australia’s national security by shaping and influencing policy decisions regarding Australia’s defence with an emphasis on air and space power. The Foundation also promotes national security policies that: promote the generation of coherent and sustainable combat power by Navy, Army, Air Force, Space and Cyber; particularly in an integrated context, including through the wider Australian national scientific and industry support base; and influence the evolving regional strategic environment in a manner favourable to Australia’s security. The Foundation aims to stimulate awareness, understanding and constructive debate on national security policies by supporting research, consulting with senior Defence officials and industry representatives and hosting seminars and events. Our strategic outlook framework Our events are guided by our Strategic Outlook Framework developed by the Program Subcommittee of the Board. This Framework drives the themes, questions and speaker selection for both Seminars & the Errol McCormack Member Lunches. The Framework can be viewed here: 2025/26 Strategic Outlook Framework Our governance The Sir Richards Williams Foundation Inc is Incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Act 1991 and is a charity registered under the Australian Charities and Not-For-Profits Commission. The Foundation is incorporated in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The organisation is governed by a Board of Directors and is supported by an Operations Team . Our Constitution can be downloaded here [PDF] Our history After years of discussion, in 2008 a group of retired Air Force officers decided that there was a need for an organisation to support development of Air Force. Possible solutions covered the range from “CAF Grey Beards Advisory Committee” to “Independent Think Tank”. After several formal and informal exploratory meetings, the decision was taken to form a RAAF Association Think Tank to be called the Sir Richard Williams Foundation. The first formal meeting of the Foundation was conducted on 14 October 2008 at the Air Power Development Center with Dr Alan Stephens as Chair. During the meeting Dr Stephens suggested, and the Committee agreed, that AIRMSHL Errol McCormack AO (Retd) take the Chair. Through 2009 the Committee developed the structure required to support the Foundation and decided that product of the Foundation would be “Papers” on topical issues. Workshops were to be used to support development of the papers. “Workshops” soon developed into “Seminars” as a means of gaining company sponsorship. The first seminar, ISR, was held at ADC on 19 April 2011. At a meeting on 14 December 2010 the Committee decided that the Foundation should be independent from the RAAF Association. Thus, on 03 December 2012 the Sir Richard Williams Foundation Incorporated was registered in the ACT as a charity. Since then the Foundation has continued to develop and expand in scope and range of activities. The Foundation is now recognised in the Department of Defence as an influential component of operational development of air power in the ADF. Our founder Errol McCormack joined the RAAF as an aircrew cadet in March 1962 after completing an apprenticeship as a fitter and turner. On graduation he was assigned fast jet and completed tours in South East Asia (Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Borneo) on the F-86 Sabre, Vietnam on the Canberra bomber, US on the F-111A and US on the RF-4C Reconnaissance Phantom. As a senior officer he completed two tours in Operational Requirements, two tours at staff college (RAAF and Joint), one tour in Operational/Air Command and two tours in diplomatic posts (Air Attache Washington and Commander IADS, Malaysia/Singapore). He has commanded at squadron, wing and Air Force levels. Errol McCormack retired from the RAAF as Chief of Air Force in May 2001. Since then he has sat on local company boards and consulted for many local and foreign companies dealing with Defence. In Oct19 he divested himself of all commercial commitments and now conducts pro bono activities only. Sir Richard Williams The Foundation is named after Sir Richard Williams. In World War I Sir Richard Williams was the Australian Army's outstanding air combat commander. In 1921 he became the first chief of the newly-formed Royal Australian Air Force. Williams is widely acknowledged as Australia's pre-eminent military airman. For more about Sir Richard Williams, Brian Weston and Alan Stephens, wrote a three part series of articles in 2019 published in On Target - a regular column in the Australian Defence Business Review . Brian Weston 'On Target: Who was Richard Williams? ' in Australian Defence Business Review, March-April 2019 p. 82 Brian Weston 'On Target: The Birth of an Australian Air Force – Part 2 ' in Australian Defence Business Review, May-June 2019 p 82 Dr Alan Stephens 'On Target: Richard Williams and the Defence of Australia ' July-August 2019 This column written for the ADBR July-August 2019 an edition that was not published Image Acknowledgement - This photo of Sir Richard Williams was donated to the Williams Foundation from the Wall family private collection. The photo can be found on the front cover of Sir Richard Williams' autobiography 'These are the Facts' , published by The Australian War Memorial and the Australian Government Publishing Service, 1977

Fellows The Williams Foundation brings together experts academia and military from all over the world who provide the highest quality research, policy recommendations, and analysis on a full range of public policy issues. We thank them for their support of the Foundation and their contribution to our goals. Air Vice Marshal John Blackburn AO (Retd) John Blackburn is the Chair of the Institute for Integrated Economic Research – Australia. He retired from the Royal Australian Air Force in 2008 as the Deputy Chief of the Air Force, following a career as an F/A-18 fighter pilot, test pilot, and strategic planner. Since 2008, John has consulted to Industry and Government Agencies and has undertaken a range of National Security and Resilience related studies, as a RAAF Reservist until 2019 , and also with the Institute for Integrated Economic Research - Australia, the Australian Security Leaders Climate Group, the Kokoda Foundation, and the Sir Richard Williams Foundation. For the past four years he has led a National Resilience Project that has highlighted a lack of resilience in Australia in addressing the pandemic, climate change impacts, the ongoing energy transition, and growing regional security threats. He is an advisor to Canberra based AICoLab Alliance and is using developmental Agentic AI systems to further refine the recommendations of the IIER-A National Resilience Project. His current focus is on the potential impacts of AI on National Security and Resilience. Dr Robbin Laird Dr Robbin Laird is a defense analyst and strategic studies expert with more than four decades of experience examining global security challenges, military transformation, and the evolving character of warfare. He is Co-Founder and Editor of Second Line of Defense and Defense.info, a member of the Board of Contributors for Breaking Defense , and a regular contributor to the wider international defense press. Dr Laird began his career as a Soviet specialist during the Cold War, working in and with the U.S. government, the Center for Naval Analyses, and the Institute for Defense Analyses, and later engaged extensively on post-Soviet nuclear issues in Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. He recently has published books on The Global War in Ukraine: 2021-2025 and The Global War in Ukraine: An Essay on the Changing Global Order which take his work forward in this area of his work. He has done frequent field analysis with U.S. and European forces over the years and have published several books on the transformation of the U.S. Marine Corps, the fifth-generation revolution and naval modernization. And he has worked for many years on the evolution of maritime autonomous systems and the drone wars. A frequent visitor to Australia, Dr Laird has worked closely with The Sir Richard Williams Foundation for many years, supporting its seminars on the transformation of the Australian Defence Force and publishing several books on Australia’s defense challenges, the ADF’s evolution toward distributed operations, and the Indo-Pacific strategic environment. Based in the United States and in Paris, France, he regularly travels across Europe and globally to conduct interviews with senior policymakers, military leaders, and industry executives, focusing on alliance dynamics, autonomous systems, and the integration of emerging capabilities into 21st-century combat forces. John Conway John has over 40 years’ experience in the business of air and missile defences in an international context. He is currently the Head of Practice and Managing Director of Felix, a boutique professional services company established in 2017 to provide consulting, strategic advisory, and brand strategy and creative services to Defence, and the defence technological and industrial base. He was previously a business development and strategy executive with Raytheon Australia specialising in air combat integration, electronic warfare, advanced weapons systems, test and training ranges, and integrated air and missile defence. 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 operational experience on F4 Phantom and Tornado F3 aircraft included Cold War Europe, the South Atlantic, the Balkans, and the Middle East. 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. Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston KCB CBE ADC After 37 years of service, Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston retired from the Royal Air Force in 2023. As Chief of the Air Staff from 2019-2023, Sir Mike empowered innovation at every level and advocated for the adoption of new technologies like space systems, uncrewed aircraft, swarming drones, and AI. He conceived and established UK Space Command in 2021, and played a leading role establishing the multi-billion, multi-decade program to build the UK’s next generation combat aircraft. A regular visitor to Australia, Sir Mike is now a board member and senior adviser on aerospace, defence and technology in the UK, Europe, and Australia, and a Visiting Professor at King’s College London. Life Members Life Members have made outstanding contributions either directly to the Foundation or by shaping and influencing policy decisions regarding Australia’s defence, particularly air power. Air Vice Marshal Brian Weston AM, FRAeS (Retd) Brian Weston’s RAAF career included flying tours on the CAC Sabre, Dassault Mirage IIIO and the F/A-18, with command appointments at squadron (No 75 Squadron), base (RAAF Base Richmond) and group (Tactical Fighter Group) level. His staff appointments spanned personnel, force development and analysis, defence force structure, and the drafting the Operational Concepts (Air) for the Defence of Australia. He attended the USAF Air Warfare College and the Royal College of Defence Studies, and was a member of the Directing Staff of the Australian Joint Service Staff College. In 1993, with Peter Moran, he conducted the Post Implementation Review of the Defence Regional Support arrangements of the ADF. On completion of his appointment as Assistant Chief of Defence Force for Operations, he transferred to the RAAF Reserve where, following the Black Hawk mid-air collision, he and John Faulkner - Deputy Chair of Air Services Australia - conducted the Independent Review of ADF Airworthiness . Their Review recommended seminal change to the organisational framework for the regulation and management of airworthiness in the ADF. In his post air force career, he served as Executive Director of the Australian Business Limited Defence Industry Unit; Executive Director of the Association of Australian Aerospace Industries; inaugural ‘Industry Chair’ of the Defence Capability Advisory Forum; and was a member of the Defence and Industry Advisory Council chaired by the Minister for Defence. He has worked with Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, P&O Services and Allied Technology Group; was a non-executive director of National Air Support operating the Coastwatch fleet of aircraft; chair of the SAI Global Certification Board (2002-2014); a consultant to the Australian Strategic Policy Institute on the Joint Strike Fighter Project; and was the Australian defence and defence-industry consultant to Northrop Grumman (2004-2023), during which its Australian presence expanded from four, to over 900 employees. His qualifications include a BSc (Melbourne) and an MBA (Auburn), and his published papers include a history of the Australian aviation industry for the RAAF Aerospace Centre; the future of Unmanned Aerial Systems for the Sir Richard Williams Foundation; and a paper titled ‘A Coming of Age for Australia and its Air Force ’ for the RAAF Air Power Development Centre. He was appointed a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society; an Honorary Visiting Fellow at the Aerospace, Mechanical and Civil Engineering School at UNSW@ADFA (2005-2012); a Board Member of the Sir Richard Williams Foundation (2016-2022) and was the foundation’s On Target columnist in Australian Aviation and the Australian Business and Defence Review . He is a member of the McNeill Society of the St Joseph’s College, Geelong, Foundation. He met Renate on the school bus; with their second daughter being the first female ADFA graduate to earn a RAAF pilot’s brevet. In 1999, he took up preparing and racing historic sports cars, with Renate as Team Boss. He was founding president of the Group S Racing Association (2006-2010) and is a life member of the GSRA. Alan Titheridge AO Alan Titheridge finally left the work force in 2021 after serving as L3Harris’ Corporate Vice President Australia Operations and MD L3 Harris Australia for 14 years. He retired from the Royal Australian Air Force in 2002 and ran his own consulting business prior to joining L3 in 2007. During his air force career, he flew in excess of 4500 flying hours, mainly in tactical fighter aircraft including the Mirage III and the F18 Hornet. He commanded No 77 Fighter Squadron, No 81 Fighter Wing, Australia’s Tactical Fighter Group, and the Australian Defence Force’s Air Command. He has also served in a range of senior staff appointments in the Australian Defence Force including Director General Joint Operations and Plans, Head of Strategic Command Division and Deputy Chief of Air Force. He is a graduate of the Canadian Forces Command and Staff College and the United States Air Force Air War College. He has a Bachelors’ Degree in Science (Physics) from Melbourne University and a Masters’ Degree in Defence Studies from the University of New South Wales. Alan was made a Member of the Order of Australia in 1985 and an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2001. Alan is married to Cheryl and they have three married children - Lisa in the US, Justine in Melbourne, and David, an Air Force pilot and now Air Vice Marshal – and seven grandchildren. Ken Moore 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.

MEMBERSHIP Gain priority-access to our high demand events & stay inside the critical conversations Our events attract an influential cross-section of Defence leaders, researchers and industry practitioners to share international and local experiences around future force thinking. Our Membership options are designed for your organisation to make the most of our programs. 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. Explore a package that meets your needs Annual Corporate Premium Annual Corporate SME Annual Corporate Individual Individual Membership $100 per annum (includes GST) A simple way for individuals to stay close to the conversation. Whether you’re a contractor, academic, defence professional, or someone in the public who cares about these issues. You’ll get access to member events, news, and voting rights at the AGM. Join up to 4 member lunches each year - your chance to hear directly from senior speakers and stay connected. Attend up to 2 seminars each year - keep your thinking current on the big operational and strategic questions. Be part of the Foundation, not just an attendee - AGM voting, advance notice of events, and member newsletters. Please note - Places are limited and offered on a first-in basis until the event is at capacity. Tickets are not transferrable. Join Now Annual Corporate Membership $6,000 per annum (plus GST) A streamlined corporate membership that gives your organisation dependable participation across the year Seminar access, priority lunch seating, transferable places, and a clear member voice through AGM voting - plus visibility as a supporter on our website Bring up to 5 people to each of the two seminars each year (places are transferable) Enjoy priority seating at member lunches - 3 reserved places per lunch, with priority access to up to 2 additional places where capacity allows (minimum 4 lunches per year) Keep your whole organisation in the loop - add unlimited nominated members to receive email notifications and newsletters Have a formal member voice - 6 nominated individuals can vote at the AGM and Extraordinary General Meetings. Be visibly recognised as a supporter - your logo on the website for 12 months. During the membership period the number of places at each event can be adjusted according to interest in the topic and availability to attend. Places are transferrable. Join Now Premium Annual Corporate Membership $8,000 per annum (plus GST) Designed for organisations that want to consistently bring the right people into the room Easy admin, flexibility to swap attendees, and a visible show of support for the Foundation’s work. Space for up to 5 colleagues to each seminar (2 per year) Enjoy 3 reserved places at member lunches plus priority for an additional 2 places per lunch depending on availability (a minimum of 4 lunches per year) One place at the annual Sponsors & Supporters Dinner - a more intimate leadership-focused moment Your organisation acknowledged with a logo on the Williams website for a year A meaningful member voice - 8 nominated individual members receive AGM voting rights Keep your whole organisation in the loop - add unlimited nominated members to receive email notifications and newsletters Less admin, more participation - a nominated bundle coordinator to manage attendance. Please note - Annual corporate memberships have first priority however places are limited and offered on a first -in basis until the event is at capacity. Join Now SME Annual Corporate Membership $3,000 per annum (plus GST) A versatile package for small-to-medium sized enterprises to bring a small group into the program and add a light-touch, but visible sponsorship pathway without needing 'big enterprise' scale Keep the admin manageable whilst connecting your organisation to the conversation. Space for 2 people at member lunches (a minimum of 4 lunches per year) Space for 2 people at seminars (2 seminars per year) Your organisation acknowledged with a logo on the Williams website for a year A meaningful member voice - 4 nominated individual members receive AGM voting rights Keep your whole organisation in the loop - add unlimited nominated members to receive email notifications and newsletters During the membership period the number of places at each event can be adjusted according to interest in the topic and availability to attend. Places are transferrable. Join Now The Foundation also offers a range of Corporate Sponsorship and Event Sponsorship packages to organisations looking to partner with us. Find out more

Privacy Statement The Sir Richard Williams Foundation respects your privacy & protecting your personal information is important to us. Considerations This policy outlines the Foundation’s ongoing obligations in respect of how it manages and collects Personal Information. The Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (the Act) applies to government agencies and private sector organisations with an annual turnover of $3 million or more. Although the Act does not apply to the Foundation, it has adopted the applicable Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) contained in the Act which govern the way in which the Foundation collects, uses, discloses, stores, secures and disposes of Personal Information. The APPs are principles-based, protecting privacy while not burdening the Foundation with inflexible prescriptive rules. The APPs: deal with all stages of the processing of personal information, setting out standards for the collection, use, disclosure, quality and security of Personal Information; and provide obligations on the Foundation concerning access to, and correction of, an individual's own Personal Information. Privacy Principles The APPs that the Foundation has adopted are as follows: Manage Personal Information in an open and transparent way. Solicit and collect Personal Information, only through lawful and fair means, that is reasonably necessary for, or directly related to, one or more of its functions or activities. Retain unsolicited Personal Information only with the agreement of the individual involved. Take reasonable steps to ensure individuals are aware of: the Foundation’s contact details the fact and circumstances of collection whether the collection is required or authorised by law the purposes of collection the consequences if personal information is not collected the Foundation’s usual disclosures of Personal Information information about the Foundation’s Privacy Policy Only use or disclose Personal Information for a purpose for which it was collected (known as the ‘primary purpose’), or for the following secondary purposes: the individual has consented to a secondary use or disclosure the individual would reasonably expect the Foundation to use or disclose their Personal Information for the secondary purpose, and that purpose is related to the primary purpose of collection the secondary use or disclosure is required or authorised by or under an Australian law or a court/tribunal order Must take reasonable steps to ensure the Personal Information collected and disclosed is accurate, up to date and complete, having regard to the purpose of the use or disclosure. Must take reasonable steps to protect Personal information it holds from misuse, interference and loss, and from unauthorised access, modification or disclosure. Obliged to give an individual access to Personal Information held about them. Obliged to correcting Personal Information it holds about individuals. A full list of the APPs may be obtained from the website of The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner at https://www.oaic.gov.au/ . What is Personal Information and why does the Foundation collect it? Personal information is information or an opinion that identifies an individual. Examples of personal information collected include names, addresses, email addresses, phone numbers and financial information, such as credit card details. This Personal Information is obtained in correspondence, by telephone, by email, via our website or from other publicly available sources. The Foundation collects Personal Information for the primary purpose of providing our services to members. Personal Information may also be used for secondary purposes closely related to the primary purpose, in circumstances where such use or disclosure would be reasonably expected (e.g., to event organisers). An individual may unsubscribe from the Foundation’s services at any time by contacting the Foundation’s Business Manager (details below). When the Foundation collects Personal Information it will, where appropriate and where possible, explain to the individual why the information is being collected how the Foundation plans to use it. Sensitive Information Sensitive information is defined in the Privacy Act to include information or opinion about such things as an individual's racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, membership of a political association, religious or philosophical beliefs, membership of a trade union or other professional body, criminal record or health information. The Foundation does not need to collect any sensitive information. Third Parties Where reasonable and practicable to do so, the Foundation will collect Personal Information only from the individual. However, in some circumstances Personal Information may be provided information by third parties. In such a case the Foundation will take reasonable steps to ensure that the individual is made aware of the information provided by a third party. Disclosure of Personal Information Personal Information may be disclosed in a number of circumstances including the following: Third parties where an individual has consented to the use or disclosure. Where required or authorised by law. Security of Personal Information Personal Information is stored in a manner that reasonably protects it from misuse and loss and from unauthorised access, modification or disclosure. When Personal Information is no longer needed for the purpose for which it was obtained, the Foundation will take reasonable steps to destroy it. Access to Personal Information An individual may access the Personal Information the Foundation holds to update / correct / delete it. Access to Personal Information is through the Business Manager who will require identification from the individual before releasing the requested information. Policy Updates This Policy may change from time to time and is available on the Foundation’s website Privacy Policy Enquiries and Complaints The Foundation’s Business Manager can be contacted at: info@williamsfoundation.org.au or write to the Williams Foundation, PO Box 5214, KINGSTON ACT 2604

The Williams Foundation advances awareness, understanding and constructive debate about integrated, coherent & sustainable combat power to strengthen Australia’s national security. Through its events & engagement activities with Defence officials and the wider Australian national scientific and industry base, the Foundation shapes and influences policy decisions regarding Australia’s defence with an emphasis on air and space power. The Sir Richard Williams Foundation is an independent organisation whose primary purpose is to strengthen Australia’s national security by shaping and influencing policy decisions regarding Australia’s defence with an emphasis on air and space power. The Foundation promotes the generation of coherent and sustainable combat power by Navy, Army, Airforce, Space and Cyber; particularly in an integrated context, including through the wider Australian national scientific and industry support base The Foundation also promotes national security policies that influences the evolving regional strategic environment in a manner favourable to Australia’s security. The Foundation aims to stimulate awareness, understanding and constructive debate on national security policies by supporting research, consulting with senior ADF, Defence and National Security officials and industry representatives and hosting seminars and other events. Our Purpose The Foundation also promotes national security policies that:•promote the generation of coherent and sustainable combat power by Navy, Army, Airforce, Space and Cyber; particularly in an integrated context, including through the wider Australian national scientific and industry support base•influence the evolving regional strategic environment in a manner favourable to Australia’s security.The Foundation aims to stimulate awareness, understanding and constructive debate on national security policies by supporting research, consulting with senior ADF, Defence and National Security officials and industry representatives and hosting seminars and other events. EXPERT ANALYSIS In-depth thinking by our highly experienced network of non-resident fellows, scholars and active practitioners Reflections on Fifth Generation and the Challenge of Understudying Airpower Transformation 3 days ago 2 min read MORE EXPERT ANALYSIS NEWS & UPDATES Stay up-to-date with the latest in the Foundation's news and activities > Vale Errol (Mac) McCormack Air Marshal AO (Retd) Apr 18, 2024 1 min read CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS We advance awareness, understanding and constructive debate about integrated, coherent & sustainable combat power to strengthen Australia’s national security Our Purpose EVENTS Errol McCormack lunches and Conferences are complimentary for financial members of the Williams Foundation. Reflections on Fifth Generation and the Challenge of Understudying Airpower Transformation 3 days ago 2 min read The next generation of airpower is not an aircraft. It is the capacity to fight night after night, week after week, month after month 5 days ago 2 min read Click for more information and registration Platinum Corporate Partners

Air Power Scholars The Air Power Scholars program is a cooperative endeavour between the Sir Richard Williams Foundation and the Air and Space Power Centre . It aims to develop a small group of Air Force Officers with the intellectual skills, theoretical knowledge and practical experience to engage credibly in the global air and space power dialogue. PhD candidates are supported by the Air and Space Power Centre and the Williams Foundation. The Williams foundation supports scholars financially with up to $20,000 per PhD candidate over the course of their research. In December 2019, GPCAPT Jarrod Pendlebury was the first to complete his PhD with the support of the program. The PhD is titled The Dawn Horizon: Constructing an Air Force Identity During Initial Officer Training in Australia, The United States and The United Kingdom . Sir Richard Williams Foundation Scholars Completed PhDs AVM Steve Edgeley Creating A Potent Joint Force: The Practical Evolution of Inter-Service Cooperation University of Sydney Abstract: That recent changes in the operational environment have required the RAAF to focus on the application of joint effects, this change in operational focus has led to cultural and organisational changes that make it an imperative to embrace jointness. AIRCDRE Jarrod Pendlebury The Dawn Horizon: Constructing an Air Force Identity During Initial Officer Training in Australia, The United States and The United Kingdom . University of Sydney Abstract: Many of the arguments supporting diversity in the military focus on the instrumental benefits available to an organisation that embraces difference. Viewed through this lens, there is a risk of diversity becoming another ‘to do,’ and prioritised according to available resources. Arguing for diversity primarily from the perspective of a capability-based argument also fails to challenge the tension between a military’s combat effectiveness, and its adherence to the values and laws of the state it protects. This thesis seeks to reframe the diversity debate by arguing that a diverse military reflective of the demography of society is a fundamental requirement in a Western liberal democracy. Active PhDs Squadron Leader Andrew Lloyd A Contemporary Study of Aerial Delivery in the Australian Context University of BLANK Abstract: A first principles approach to investigate the ADF use of Aerial Delivery Equipment (ADE) has not previously been conducted. Aerial Delivery is a potent capability that is underutilised due to logistical complexities and a lack of defined mission assuredness. In particular, the use of Aerial Delivery methods involving parachutes can be cumbersome and may be unnecessarily complex after considering technical and safety risks. High cost precision airdrop capabilities have had extensive research and their emergence has yielded an expansive literature basis. Conventional airdrop using parachutes is also a well-established research area. There is, however, an opportunity to explore alternate means of Aerial Delivery to achieve the same or similar end states. To date, adopted methods to dissipate energy are limited to the use of cardboard Energy Dissipating Material (EDM). This product is optimised for a particular rate of descent and limited research exists to inform alternative methods of energy dissipation or non-parachute systems to retard the rate of descent. Planned to undertake Williams Foundations Sponsored dedicated study period at ASPC in 2023. WGCDR Sally-Ann Knox A new psychology of military leadership University of Queensland Abstract: Elucidating the processes by which catastrophic consequences of military operational errors are reduced and avoided, primarily by exploring the group’s ability to internalise highly reliable behaviour as part of a shared social identity that is cultivated and embedded by purposeful, military-specific identity leadership. Completed Williams Foundation Sponsored dedicated study period at ASPC in 2021 SQNLDR Kate Yaxley Behaviour shaping and influence of cognitive swarming systems University of BLANK Abstract: An example of a naturally occurring swarm is a flock of sheep. Together, sheep work together to achieve the goal of survival, relying on high visual and aural acuity to avoid potential risks. By introducing an external agent perceived as a threat, such as a sheepdog or drone, the presence of the external agent induces behaviour changes and influences towards a known goal to the external agent, yet unknown to the flock of sheep. The influence applied by the external agent is a result of triggering a predation risk response, whereby the flock responds to the presence of the dog with behaviours that ensure survival. The purpose of this research is to more accurately reflect the behaviour shaping and influence of cognitive swarms in a simulation environment. Such agent-based models have the potential to support machine education curriculums for autonomous system development. Completed Williams Foundation Sponsored dedicated study period at ASPC in 2021 AVM Jason Begley Soft Options for a Hard Issue University of New South Wales Abstract: Assess the degree to which Air Force effectively projects soft power and whether there are viable opportunities for it to improve. GPCAPT Trav Hallen The Swedish Profile: The Evolution of the Swedish Air Force in Response to Swedish Cold War Strategic Policy Deakin University/Swedish Defence University Abstract: The Swedish Air Force was the cornerstone of Sweden’s security during the Cold War. The ability to defend Swedish airspace and deny the ability of both NATO and the Warsaw Pact to operate in it was assessed as critical to the credibility of Sweden’s strategy of non-alignment. Between 1945 and 1992, the Swedish Air Force adapted to shifts in Swedish strategic policy. This included the closer integration with Sweden’s aviation industry, the fielding of innovative aircraft designs optimised for Swedish conditions, and the development of new tactics and procedures. By the end of the Cold War, Sweden had one of the most advanced and tactically innovative air forces in Europe. This research explores how this evolution unfolded and identifies the factors that enabled a small, neutral country become a world leading air power nation. WGCDR Keirin Joyce TBA Institution TBA Abstract: TBA WGCDR Alice Paton From peace to war: Australian political-military relations across the spectrum of conflict Australian National University Abstract: This research project examines how Australian political–military relations change across the spectrum of conflict, from periods of relative peace to large‑scale conventional war. While civil–military relations scholarship has traditionally focused on civilian control and military obedience, less attention has been given to how political and military elites adapt their relationship as threat levels escalate. Despite its strategic importance, this question has been under‑examined in the Australian context. Drawing on Douglas Bland’s Unified Theory, the study analyses interactions between the Australian Government and senior military leaders since the Second World War, with particular attention to how interests, values, structures, norms, and decision‑making processes vary across different conflict settings. FLTLT Ryan Locke TBA Institution TBA Abstract: TBA Program background Photo: Department of Defence The Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Leo Davies, AO, CSC launched the five year pilot Air Power Scholar program as part of the 2016 Air Power Conference in Canberra. The Williams Foundation awards a scholarship of up to $20,000 each year of the program to the candidate undertaking the full-time study. This payment assists scholars with expenses associated with their academic program and will contribute to consultancy fees for a program mentor. This five year pilot program will support the five selected Air Force officers to undertake PhD studies. The agreement with the Air Force enables the Foundation to formally support scholars in their further education and strengthen the level of debate on military aviation issues.

The Foundation's Board The Sir Richard Williams Foundation conducts its operations independently. 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 recuse 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, Chair of the Sir Richard Williams Foundation, on the Board of Invictus Australia and the Bradfield Development Authority Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility, a member of the Governing Committee of the Temora Aviation Museum and provides strategic advice as a Non-Executive Director with BAE Systems Australia & 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 Strategic Advisor to Lockheed Martin (Australia), a Director of Electro Optic Systems, Director of CEA, Deputy 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. 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. Vice Admiral (Rtd) Tim Barrett AO, CSC Deputy Chair 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. 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. John Conway Director John has over 40 years’ experience in the business of air and missile defences in an international context. He is currently the Head of Practice and Managing Director of Felix, a boutique professional services company established in 2017 to provide consulting, strategic advisory, and brand strategy and creative services to Defence, and the defence technological and industrial base. He was previously a business development and strategy executive with Raytheon Australia specialising in air combat integration, electronic warfare, advanced weapons systems, test and training ranges, and integrated air and missile defence. 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 operational experience on F4 Phantom and Tornado F3 aircraft included Cold War Europe, the South Atlantic, the Balkans, and the Middle East. 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. Emily Frizell Director Emily is a veteran with 25 years’ experience across Defence and Defence Industry. She began her career in the Royal Australian Air Force as an electrical engineer and is now the founder and owner of AeroPM, an engineering and management specialist consulting company supporting Defence capability and acquisition programs. Under Emily’s leadership, AeroPM has experienced sustained growth and received numerous industry awards and recognitions, including being named an AFR Fast 100 company and Smart50 SME. Emily has also been recognised as Female Defence Leader of the Year and as a finalist in both the Women in Defence Awards and Veteran Entrepreneur of the Year. Emily is a Director of the Sir Richard Williams Foundation and leads the Foundation’s Digital Subcommittee, supporting the Foundation’s digital engagement, communications and broader reach of its thought leadership activities. She brings to the Board a contemporary Defence-industry perspective, with particular experience in engineering, capability acquisition, professional services, SME growth and veteran employment. 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. Rob “Nugget” Denney, AM Director Air Vice-Marshal Robert Denney (Ret) joined Northrop Grumman in January 2025 following a 33-year career with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). As Country Executive for Australia, he leads the company’s Country Strategy and manages relationships with senior Government and Defence leaders whilst guiding efforts to build local industry partnerships and streamlining U.S. reach-back in support of Australian and AUKUS technology priorities. Rob has extensive leadership experience and an in-depth understanding of Australian military operations and capabilities. Prior to his retirement from the RAAF, he was Head of Force Integration, on the Joint Staff, where he was responsible for leading, designing and assuring the delivery of interoperable capabilities for the joint force. Born in Wollongong, New South Wales, he joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 1991 as a cadet at the Australian Defence Force Academy studying Aeronautical Engineering. He completed Pilots Course and operational tours as an F-111 pilot before graduating from Empire Test Pilot School in the United Kingdom and test pilot tours at the Aircraft Research and Development Unit. He has Commanded No 6 Squadron (Super Hornet) and No 82 Wing (Super Hornet and Growler aircraft) at RAAF Amberley. Rob has twice deployed to the Middle East Region, both in the Combined Air Operations Centre at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, as part of Operation OKRA. He was awarded a Commendation for Distinguished Service for the first deployment. In 2018, he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for exceptional service in air combat capability development and sustainment. Rob performed the role of the Joint Force Air Component Commander during Australia’s 2020 Bushfire and COVID responses and he has completed one- and two-star postings in Air Force Headquarters’ Capability Division including Head of Air Force Capability. Rob is a graduate of the Joint Command and Staff Program at the Canadian Forces College in Toronto, Canada, has completed the Higher Command and Staff Course at the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom and the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School. Rob lives in Canberra with his wife and children and enjoys cycling and his weekly round of golf. 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 Air Vice‑Marshal (Ret’d) Steve "Zed" Roberton, DSC, AM is president of Boeing Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific; appointed January 2026. Based in Sydney, Roberton chairs Boeing Australia Holdings, leads strategic initiatives, expands partner collaborations and serves as the company’s senior government liaison. Roberton brings 33 years of distinguished service with the Royal Australian Air Force, during having served as a fighter pilot 26 years, including tours in Australian combat units and an exchange program flying F/A‑18s with the United States Marine Corps. He commanded No. 75 Squadron, led the RAAF’s transition to the F/A‑18F Super Hornet, and commanded Number 82 Wing at RAAF Base Amberley. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2012. In 2014, Roberton commanded the inaugural Operation OKRA Air Task Group 630 in the Middle East and was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. He later served as commander of Air Combat Group and as Air Commander Australia. In 2019, he was Head Force Design in the Vice Chief of the Defence Force executive, delivering the Force Structure Plan 2020 and the ADF Workforce Growth submission to government. Following retirement in 2022, he served as a senior advisor at McKinsey & Company before consulting for Boeing Defence Australia in 2025. He holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Queensland, a Master’s in Management from the University of Canberra, studied at the UK Higher Command and Staff College, and is a graduate of the Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program. 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

Operations Team Supporting the Foundation are highly dedicated and professional operatives that implement the Board's vision and initiatives. Catherine Scott Business and Events Manager Catherine's professional background began in Information Management/Librarianship. During her career, Catherine has worked in a range of professional positions including General Manager for the Institute For Regional Security, Senior Reference Librarian at the State Library of NSW, policy research in the Australian Government, and project management roles in website and events management. Current voluntary positions include President of Gift of Life Inc. She is also on DonateLife's Community Engagement Group and Eye and Tissue Advisory Committee. Catherine holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree, a Graduate Diploma in Information Management, Librarianship and a Master of Business Administration Luke Webb Digital Adviser Luke is an aerospace engineer, obtaining his degree with First Class Honours in 2006 at RMIT University, and is now engaged in a range of consulting, education & not-for-profit endeavors. Luke has worked for the Civil Aviation Safety Authority in airworthiness engineering and safety promotion roles and is also working part-time towards a PhD looking at complex service program management in the aircraft sustainment and support space, including a major case study on the Hawk Lead-In-Fighter. He has maintained a ‘dual-track’ technical/strategic affairs interest through his involvement in the Institute for Regional Security’s Future Strategic Leaders Program, including as one of the founders of the Institute's innovative ideas forum, Next , running the first event back in 2013. He was also one of the editors of The Central Blue . Luke is a Councillor of the Royal Aeronautical Society Australia Division and Chair of the Society’s Melbourne Branch. He also has a number of education engagements, including as a casual academic at RMIT in the fields of project management, aviation quality systems and airworthiness.