The Shephard Defence Podcast

Brought to you in partnership with RafaelAs the battlefield becomes more complex, active protection systems (APS) are proving critical - not just in protecting armoured vehicles, but in ensuring they remain effective, mobile, and mission-ready in contested environments.In this episode, we explore how APS like Rafael’s Trophy are reshaping modern land warfare. Gideon Weiss, VP of Business Development and Marketing at Rafael, and a former Israel Defense Forces commander - known here as “Col B” - share firsthand insights into how APS are transforming battlefield tactics.From stopping rocket-propelled grenades and antitank guided missiles, to countering the growing threat of drones, APS now sit at the core of future vehicle design. But beyond defence, their true value may lie in what they enable: confident manoeuvre, rapid tempo, and decisive action under fire.Join us as we discuss:Why APS is now considered standard kit for modern armoured vehicles.The operational advantage Trophy delivers beyond survivability.Real-world battlefield experiences from units equipped with APS.How APS integration is evolving to meet emerging threats like drones.What the future holds for active protection technology.Listen now to find out why APS is more than a shield - it’s a force multiplier.Learn more about Trophy at rafael.co.il/system/trophy-apsFor more stories of defence innovation, visit our Designed for Advantage content hub

This episode is brought to you in partnership with Amazon Kuiper Government Solutions‘Speed is the key advantage and accuracy is the key outcome’: Amazon Kuiper Government Solutions’ Rick Freeman talks to Shephard’s Georgia Lewis about how space-as-a-service is transforming defence connectivity and access to satellite capabilities.As militaries seek faster, more accurate decision-making across increasingly complex battlespaces, satcom services are becoming increasingly essential. The growing demand for real-time data and resilient connectivity is driving interest in new delivery models – including space-as-a-service.Amazon’s Project Kuiper is working with government customers to expand access to space in ways that reduce costs and risks without sacrificing speed or accuracy. Its satellite services, available on a subscription basis, aim to keep pace with fast-moving technologies and the changing demands of modern warfare.Rick Freeman, who is president of Amazon Kuiper Government Solutions (KGS), explains how the company’s satellite technologies are designed to integrate into networked battle systems – and why educating military leaders on the value of innovation is a continuing challenge.To learn more about Amazon Kuiper Government Solutions and its approach to space-as-a-service, click here 

Brought to you in partnership with RafaelLoitering munitions provide vital capabilities in the disrupted and unpredictable modern battlespace, from real-time ISR to a virtually “on demand” strike capability. Rafael is looking to the future of the technology, empowering systems to operate with increasing autonomy in hostile environments.Military conflict today is increasingly defined by large numbers of uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs), as demonstrated by the war in Ukraine. However, true loitering munitions offer an extra complementary dimension, notably through greater precision, intelligence, and durability.In this episode of the Shephard Defence Podcast. we speak with Gideon Weiss, vice president of business development and marketing at Rafael, and Brigadier General L, a land warfare expert and business development manager with Rafael.To explore how Rafael’s loitering munitions are shaping the future battlefield, delivering precision, autonomy, and operational flexibility when it matters most, read more hereFor more stories of defence innovation, visit our Designed for Advantage content hub

In this episode of Designed for Advantage, host Tony Skinner speaks with Rafael’s VP of business development and marketing, Gideon Weiss, and Commander ‘K’, a naval surface warfare and air defence expert, about how navies are adapting to an era of bold, asymmetric threats at sea.From swarming drones in the Red Sea to precision missile strikes in the Black Sea, the maritime threat landscape is shifting fast. The discussion explores:How multi-domain threats are reshaping naval air defence and counter-UAS (CUAS) strategies.The economics of modern naval warfare and ammunition management during high-intensity operations.The role of layered, modular and radar-agnostic defence systems, including the TYPHOON Mk 30, C-Dome and Naval Iron Beam.Real-world examples of how Rafael systems are deployed to counter UAV swarms and sea-skimming missiles.How high-energy laser systems could deliver near-zero-cost-per-shot interception and “endless magazine” potential at sea.Rafael’s approach to interoperability, open architecture and strategic partnerships with navies and shipyards worldwide.Whether you are a defence leader, naval operator or industry watcher, this conversation offers operational insights and a forward-looking perspective on maritime security.For more stories of defence innovation, visit our Designed for Advantage content hub

Gideon Weiss, Vice President of Business Development and Marketing at Rafael, and Brigadier General A, a former Israeli Air Force commander, share insight into the evolution of precision strike systems in modern warfare. They discuss how AI-powered data fusion enhances targeting efficiency and adapts to contested environments. The conversation delves into operational challenges posed by A2AD scenarios and the importance of scalable, GPS-independent systems. They also highlight the need for affordability and strategic partnerships in developing next-gen military capabilities.

In this special edition of the Shephard Defence Podcast, brought to you in partnership with Aeronautics Group, Tony Skinner sits down with Dan Slasky, President and CEO of Aeronautics, to explore how cutting-edge tactical unmanned aerial systems are reshaping today’s battlefields.From the Orbiter 5 to innovations in loitering munitions and VTOL platforms, the conversation dives into how Aeronautics is building battlefield-ready solutions that are smaller, smarter, and more survivable than ever before. Slasky also discusses how a full-system mindset - integrating UAVs, sensors, communications, and ground control - is helping operators meet complex mission needs with greater speed and precision.Key Topics:Why tactical UAVs are displacing larger, costlier platformsHow Aeronautics integrates loitering munition capability into ISR platformsInnovations in VTOL UAV systems for land and naval useHow in-house R&D and a full-stack mission approach create better outcomesWhether you're a defence tech enthusiast or a decision-maker shaping the future battlespace, this episode provides insight on what’s next in tactical unmanned systems.

High-energy laser (HEL) systems are emerging as a pivotal layer in modern air defence strategies. As threats grow more agile, diverse and frequent – from swarming UAVs to short-range rockets – militaries are increasingly turning to cost-effective, sustainable methods of interception. HEL technology now offers high-capacity, low-cost engagement options that enhance traditional defences and reduce dependence on finite missile inventories.Among the companies advancing this capability is Rafael, which has made HEL systems a key strategic focus within its broader layered defence portfolio.In this first episode of a new special series, we talk with Gideon Weiss, Rafael’s vice president of business development and marketing, and Dr R, a Senior Systems Engineer in laser systems in Rafael’s Land and Naval Systems Division.For more stories of defence innovation, visit our Designed for Advantage content hub

In this episode of Defence Insight Briefs, Senior Naval Analyst Giovani Rasio discusses all things naval. With Europe rearming, where is the money being spent and how are current affairs changing the calculus for NATO? IMDEX Asia is right around the corner. Do you want the best industry information for you and your team? Listen to the full podcast and be sure to visit Shephard's Defence Insight to view equipment entries on all the systems discussed. See you at IMDEX! 

In this episode of Defence Insight Briefs, Senior Land Analyst Sam Hart dives into the Middle East market on the first day of IDEX. With a mix of aligned and non-aligned countries, competitors and new technologies, IDEX is poised to dominate industry conversation at a time of regional change. Sam discusses who we will see, what they will be exhibiting and how the changing face of global conflict will be represented at the show. Who are the regional powers and how are they flexing their soft and hard power muscles? Listen to find out!Tune in to hear insights into the latest technological innovations and get an idea of who is selling and who is buying in this episode of Defence Insight Briefs.IDEX land brief: https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/66e15ce30983fda45218dcca/67adfa7771c85a19c58cb3e7_DI%20Market%20Overview%20-%20IDEX%20Land.pdfFree equipment entries:https://plus.shephardmedia.com/programmes/detail/new-generation-light-armoured-vehicles-tracked/?utm_source=di-ftvhttps://plus.shephardmedia.com/programmes/detail/8x8-ifv-qatar/?utm_source=di-ftv

In this episode of Defence Insight Briefs, Senior UAV Analyst Matty Todhunter examines the rapidly evolving global drone market. From the battlefield roles of loyal wingman UAVs to NATO procurement strategies, we explore how drones are transforming modern warfare.Matty discusses how the Ukraine conflict has turbocharged drone development and procurement, with global UAV spending expected to reach $8.2 billion in 2025. Key topics include the US Department of Defense’s Replicator 1 programme, India’s major MQ-9B acquisition, and Europe’s emerging loyal wingman initiatives.Tune in to hear insights into the latest technological innovations, including autonomous control systems and low-cost, attritable platforms, and how drones are poised to redefine defence strategies in the year ahead.