Defense & Aerospace Report Defense & Aerospace Technology Report [Jan 14, 25] Hudson's Bryan Clark on Pickets, Pouncers, and Protectors
Jan 14, 2026
Bryan Clark, Director at the Hudson Institute and former U.S. Navy officer, discusses defense strategies for Australia amidst budget constraints and evolving threats. He highlights a game-changing report on using uncrewed systems for deterrence and explores military scenarios through trilateral war games with the U.S. and Japan. Clark advocates for a shift in strategy to impose costs on aggressors and outlines necessary capabilities across domains. He also shares insights on the role of uncrewed systems and the importance of rapid adaptation in military acquisition.
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Shift From Denial To Cost Imposition
- Australia should shift from a strategy of denial to cost imposition against aggression.
- Bryan Clark argues uncrewed pickets and pouncers plus crewed protectors enable affordable deterrence.
Build Pickets, Pouncers, Protectors
- Invest in uncrewed pickets (sensors) and pouncers (strike) to extend reach and impose costs.
- Pair these with protectors (crewed forces) near Australia for command, control, and final defense.
Affordable Uncrewed Force Is Feasible
- Australia can field a credible uncrewed force within a $13–14B ten-year budget for Pillar 2.
- Clark says many required systems already exist or are in development and could be fielded within five years.
