The Shephard Defence Podcast

In this episode of The Weekly Defence Podcast our Air Editor talks to Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies about Skyborg and Loyal Wingman programmes and we consider how the UK MoD integrated review could change UK defence and security policy in the Asia-Pacific region.Newsround: (00:40)The US Army will evaluate the Patria Nemo 120mm turreted mortar system in a Foreign Comparative Testing exercise. Tests will take place in Finland and the US, assessing Nemo against US ammunition and US Army requirements.Following delays caused by COVID-19, the Philippines has finally selected new light tanks, 8x8 fire support vehicles and 6x6 APCs to equip the Philippine Army’s Armor Division. The annual Euronaval trade show and conference was held virtually last week, highlighting a number of programme updates and technology developments. During the show,  Naval Group unveiled its futuristic SMX 31 E stealth submarine design.News in FocusAir Editor Tim Martin reports on the the Hellenic Navy set to receive a new fleet of MH-60R naval helicopters among reported workforce difficulties for F-16V supplier Hellenic Aviation Industry that could cause industrial complications for Lockheed Martin.Tim also discusses all the updates on Boeing's AH-64 production programme, which has now been restarted in the middle of an investigation concerning previously reported safety issues. The Dutch MoD has released its new Defence Vision 2035 which forecasts a doubling in upcoming budget request to match the outlined requirements.  Is this realistic while European economies reel from the impact of COVID-19? Interview- Mitchell Institute for Aerospace studies (22:00)Tim Martin is on the line with Mark Gunzinger, Director of Future Concepts and Capability Assessments at the Mitchell Institute, and Lukas Autenried, Senior Analyst at the Mitchell Institute. They discuss the recently released paper Understanding the Promise of Skyborg and Low-Cost Attritable Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, which analyses how US Air Force can maintain high readiness and modernise an aircraft inventory that is both old and small.Interview- A conversation around UK integrated review (44:40)Senior Editor Naval Richard Thomas is on the line with Duncan Bartlett, former BBC Tokyo correspondent and author, for a conversation on UK defence planning in terms of the Asia-Pacific region.This episode was produced by Noemi Distefano with music and sound mixing by Fred Prest.

In this episode of The Weekly Defence Podcast we talk to software supplier Aerogility about its cloud-based predictive maintenance and forecasting solutions; and catch up with our Military Training Editor on recent developments and technologies in that field.Newsround (00:32)In the US, GM Defense is set to deliver the initial batch of prototype Infantry Support Vehicles to the US Army for testing on 26 October.The USAF has awarded Raytheon Missiles and Defense a contract for Lot 6 production of StormBreaker precision-guided glide bombs.  In the naval domain, Russia is assessing the results of the latest test-firing of the Tsirkon hypersonic missile from the frigate Admiral Gorshkov. News in Focus:Despite the pandemic,  Naval Group still plans to deliver FDI frigate FNS Amiral Ronarc’h, destined for the French Navy in 2023 .News Editor Ben Vogel and Senior Editor - Naval Richard Thomas discuss where FDI fits into the French Navy of the future.As COVID-19 issues continue to affect industry, Saab has admitted its Gripen E/F programme has had to undergo reassessment, with the company turning to new suppliers and implementing a series of ‘mitigating actions’. Air Editor Tim Martin reports.The UK’s House of Commons Defence Committee released an update on 20 October about progress in delivering the next generation of armoured vehicles for the British Army. Land Reporter Flavia Camargos Pereira brings us up to date on the matter.Deep Dive – Simulation and Training programmes (22:18)Developers and manufacturers worldwide continue the pursuit of new AI technologies, which are set to disrupt the way militaries train. Multimedia Journalist Noemi Distefano is on the line with Military Training Editor Trevor Nash for an update on some cutting-edge programmes covering tailored training, physiological training and olfactory stimulation.What's the role of the UK space sector in the ‘Global Britain’ envisioned for the future? Listen to Shephard Studio’s Defining the Future podcast, sponsored by our partner Raytheon UK . What connectivity issues are the US military facing? Listen to Shephard Studio’s podcast series on Five Eyes Connectivity, sponsored by our partner Viasat. Interview: Aerogility (38:54)Tim Martin speaks to Nigel Yard, head of defence and primes division at Aerogility, about the company’s  cloud-based predictive forecasting solutions that can help plan maintenance and engineering requirements for air forces.

In this episode of The Weekly Defence Podcast, we talk to the CEO of Infrastrata about the company’s acquisition of two historic UK shipyards and we take a plunge into the world of loitering munitions after US manufacturer AeroVironment released a new variant of its Switchblade series.Newsround (00:35)Researchers funded by the US Army have developed a method of fabricating 3D photonic crystals, which could eventually lead to more efficient directed-energy weapons and a range of other military applications.  Authorities in South Korea are considering replacing the country’s Black Hawk fleet with the indigenous Surion platform.Leonardo and the UK Royal Air Force have completed a swarming drone flight test involving remotely piloted aircraft equipped with EW jamming capabilities.News in focus: The programme for the development and manufacture of the Type 31 frigates for the RN remains on schedule despite the difficulties faced by industry during the pandemic. Senior Editor Naval Richard Thomas brings up to date with some data and figures on this programme.The US Army has made some progress in its Robotic Combat Vehicle programme. News Editor Ben Vogel reports on the outcome of the new test trials and what's next for the US Army on this front.The US State Department has approved the F-35 and F/A-18 sales to Finland dependent on the outcome of a fighter aircraft tender. Should one or other be selected as the winning aircraft for Finland’s €10 billion ($11.82 billion) HX fighter acquisition. Air Editor Tim Martin reports.What's the role of the UK space sector in the global Britain envisioned for the future? Listen to Shephard Studio’s Defining the Future podcast, sponsored by our partner Raytheon UK .What connectivity issues are the US military facing? Listen to Shephard Studio’s podcast series on Five Eyes Connectivity, sponsored by our partner Viasat. Interview – Infrastrata (21:26) In an interview with Richard Thomas, Infrastrata CEO John Wood discusses the prospects and opportunities for the company following the acquisition of UK shipyards Harland and Wolff and H&W Appledore.Interview- AeroVironment (40:45)Tim Martin is on the line with AeroVironment’s CEO, Senior General Manager and Product Line Manager to discuss the new launch of the company's new Switchblade 600. What is the state of the loitering munitions market?This episode was produced by Noemi Distefano with music and sound mixing by Fred Prest.

In this episode of The Weekly Defence Podcast we bring you all the news from across the Asia Pacific and talk with Leidos UK about the how the company is looking to expand its services in national security and defence.Newsround (00:35)In Europe, two types of UGV from Estonia-based Milrem Robotics can now be equipped with a loitering munition launcher from Israeli firm UVision.In Bulgaria, proposals from General Dynamics European Land Systems and Patria have been downselected for the second phase of an 8x8 IFV procurement programme. Egypt is close to receiving an array of US-supplied equipment for maritime security and surveillance, after the State Department approved a FMS package worth an estimated $417 million.News in focusAs HMS Queen Elizabeth prepares to deploy its new carrier strike capability in 2021 with the embarkation USMC F-35Bs for Exercise Joint Warrior, Senior Editor Naval Richard Thomas discusses how the nascent UK capability is viewed in Washington. The US Army has awarded $1.2 billion contract to General Dynamics Land System (GDLS) to provide IM- SHORAD systems. News Editor Ben Vogel discusses the importance of the acquisition for US ground forces.Following AeroVironment’s recent release of a new variant from its family of Switchblade loitering munitions, Air Editor Tim Martin talks about some of the key features of the new Switchblade 600.Deep Dive: News from the Asia Pacific (18:28) In this month’s news roundup Asia Pacific Editor Gordon Arthur focuses on Japan’s $55 billion defence budget request and the driving factors behind it, including the acquisition of new F-35 jets, development of the F/X sixth-generation fighter gathers pace and ground-based air defence systems.In Pakistan, the Army has introduced the Chinese-built Norinco VT4 MBTs.And the first batch of long-awaited Embraer A-29B Super Tucano light attack aircraft finally arrived in the Philippines after a multi-stop journey from Brazil.Interview: Leidos UK (34:55)Ben Vogel is on the line with Leidos UK’s newly appointed Managing Director of National Security and Defence Al Potter to look at the new company’s strategy in the defence, intelligence and national security markets. This episode was produced by Noemi Distefano with music by Fred Prest.

In this episode of The Weekly Defence Podcast, we talk to Blighter Surveillance Systems about 3D drone detection radar technology; we explore the concept of hybrid and grey zone warfare in an interview with QinetiQ; and we chat to our sponsor IAI about cyber security challenges facing governments in a post-Covid world.Newsround (00:45)In the Caucasus, fighting between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh has flared up again. The latest round of the conflict is notable for the use on the Azeri side of Bayraktar TB2 UCAVs supplied by Turkey. Meanwhile, Armenia has fired Serbian-made G2000 rockets from Grad multiple launch rocket systems at Azerbaijani positions.News in focusNews Editor Ben Vogel gives out an highlight on the capabilities on display at the Zolfaghar-99 exercise, in which Iran showcased new and existing UAVs and anti-ship missile capabilities.In a dramatic turn of events, Germany announced the cancellation of its long-running heavy-lift helicopter replacement tender.  Air Editor Tim Martin gives an expert insight on what this means for the country’s air capabilities and considers the potential repercussions. Tim also reports on the results of the  national referendum held in Switzerland earlier this week, when voters decided by a slim margin to proceed with buying new fighter jets.The Netherlands  announced its intention to procure  new tracked vehicles for the Marine Corps. The platforms will be acquired under the multinational Collaborative All-Terrain Vehicle (CATV) procurement programme. Land Reporter Flavia Camargos Pereira reports.Interview- Blighter Surveillance Systems (21:14)Ben Vogel is on the line with Mark Radford, Blighter co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, to talk about the company’s new 3D drone detection radar, wider C-UAS technology and industry developments.Interview – QinetiQ (42:11)Multimedia Journalist Noemi Distefano grabs a chat with QinetiQ’s CTO Mike Sewart for an insight on Qinetiq’s newly released report ‘Confidence in Chaos’, which explores how emerging technologies can help organisations countering threats in the grey zone.Industry Voice – IAI (58:00)Shephard Media's Creative Director Tony Skinner talks to Esti Peshin, General Manager of IAI’s Cyber Division, about the likely cyber security challenges facing governments in a post-COVID world.This episode was produce by Noemi Distefano, music and sound mixing by Fred Prest 

 In  this episode of The Weekly Defence Podcast we discuss attack submarines global market, key programmes and challenges ahead; and we learn about radar innovation and applications in an interview with a USN research laboratory.Newsround (00:42)Indra has worked with the Spanish Navy to develop a technology demonstrator based on unsupervised AI.In the Soprene Project, a demonstration AI engine was designed to predict malfunctions and improve the maintenance and availability of Alvaro de Bazan-class frigates and Meteoro-class OPVs.In the United States, Secretary of Defense Mark Esper has urged higher spending on shipbuilding to support what he described as a ‘game-changer’ study for fleet design to deliver a USN of more than 355 ships.However, he failed to commit to a precise spending level for shipbuilding. A sense of déjà vu reigns in Croatia, where familiar names will compete in a resurrected tender to replace the air force’s fleet of MiG-21s.Offers came from France, Israel, Sweden and the US. The latter two are proposing new-build solutions – respectively, the F-16 Block 70  and Gripen C/D. In contrast, France (with Rafale) and Israel (with the F-16C/D Barak 2020)  are offering second-hand aircraft.News in focusBoeing, Honeywell and Rolls-Royce have jointly reached an agreement for T55 engine in-service support as part of a wider CH-47F Chinook heavy-lift helicopter offer to Germany. What does this move mean for Germany?  Air Editor Tim Martin discusses.Land Reporter Flavia Camargos Pereira reports South American potential procurement as Argentina and Uruguay seek to kickstart modernisation with special funds across their air, land and naval domains.Deep dive: Defence Insight on SSK programmes (18:05)Senior Editor Naval Richard Thomas hosts an interview with Shephard’s Analyst Harriet Haywood on attack submarine procurement, global markets, ongoing programmes and challenges ahead for the industry as a result of the pandemic.Interview: USN Research Laboratory (30:36)Shephard’s contributor Gerrard Cowan is on the line with Christopher Rodenbeck,  Head of Radar Division at the USN Research Laboratory to take a plunge into the world of radar. They discuss  millimetre-wave radar applications research. And multidisciplinary advanced development programmes for radar and sensor applications. Industry Voice (44:38)Creative Director Tony Skinner speaks to Andy Kessler VP and Business Area Director of Viasat next-generation tactical data links business about the expansion of Link 16 over the years to fulfil a broad range of missions.This episode was produced by Noemi Distefano 

In this episode of The Weekly Defence Podcast we hear about capabilities on display on the floor of MSPO event in Poland, and we talk to Heron Systems’ VP for research to look at what’s next for the company following its recent victory in the DARPA AlphaDogfight AI trial.Newsround (00:33) In Japan, the MoD is considering alternatives to Aegis Ashore for ballistic missile defence. Three options are currently being considered. Departing Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on 11 September that the MoD will reach a decision by late December.In Australia  the first engine fire-up test of the Loyal Wingman UAV took place on 15 September, following completion of the first aircraft earlier this year for the Royal Australian Air Force.In Germany, the government is investing a further €2.1 billion in the armed forces, following the previous funding injection in July. This time the emphasis is on digitalisation, Joint Direct Attack Munition smart bombs for the air force and guided missiles for the navy. The UK will lead an international training programme for the Ukrainian Navy, which requires new equipment and systems to recover from a period of neglect. Planned exercises may involve Canada, Denmark, Sweden and possibly the US.News in focus:Air Editor Tim Martin discusses concerns raised  in the UK over the F-35 programme during the latest defence committee hearing. The programme status suggests the long-term target for delivery of 138 aircraft to the RAF might not be met. What does this mean at a capability level?BAE Systems had delivered the first Armoured Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) systems for the US Army. Land Reporter Flavia Camargos Pereira highlights what the new acquisition will add to the US ground forces.Deep Dive - MSPO Poland highlights (14:50)News Editor Ben Vogel talks to Shephard contributor Michal Jarocki, who attended the MSPO event held in Poland last week.  MSPO was one of the very few events to go ahead this year despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Michal reports on the new equipment on display plus procurement programme developments. Interview – Heron Systems (31:24)Ben Vogel speaks to Heron Systems’ VP Brett Darcey, to find out about the company’s journey to victory in the DARPA AlphaDogfight AI competition, and the next steps for the company following this achievement. This episode was produced by Noemi Distefano with music and sound mixing by Fred Prest 

In this episode of The Weekly Defence Podcast, we look into a Czech deal with Bell for Viper and Venom helicopters; US research into self-healing materials à la Terminator 2; and next steps for Japanese defence after PM Shinzo Abe announced his resignation.Newsround [01:15]Lockheed Martin intends to offer a UAV ‘wingman’ concept to function alongside Polish F-35A aircraft, but the Polish MoD must still define its final requirements before selecting industry partners.COVID-19 is causing problems for the Royal Navy, after some crew members on HMS Queen Elizabeth tested positive for the virus. This has delayed the scheduled departure of the aircraft carrier from its base in Portsmouth. US Army scientists have created a form of self-healing material that may one day be used by autonomous systems such as UAVs to repair themselves. The 3D-printable material would have the ability to reconfigure itself thanks to a dynamic bond in the structure of the polymers.News in focus Senior Editor Richard Thomas discusses the domestic defence industry in the GCC region. What are the trends and what are the prospects as countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE press on with developing their own capabilities?Land Reporter Flavia Camargos Pereira describes how the US Army is looking to get ‘more bang for its buck’ by funding research into novel energetic materials. These materials might not only enhance firepower but also increase the effective range of weapons.The DoD has awarded Bell a $272 million contract to produce and deliver eight UH-1Y Venom and four AH-1Z Viper aircraft to the Czech Republic. Air Editor Tim Martin has more details: is it a good deal for the Czechs and how will these helicopters fit into their force structure?Interview- Raytheon Air Power [17.18]News Editor Ben Vogel is on the line with Paul Ferraro, the newly minted VP of the Air Power business in Raytheon Missiles & Defense, about how the recently merged company continues to develop air-to-air and air-to-surface effectors.Deep Dive – Spotlight on Japan [34:33]Duncan Bartlett, ex-BBC Tokyo correspondent and author of the blog Japan Story, speaks to Richard Thomas about the country's changing military posture and the future of the Japan-US alliance.Industry Voice- Viasat [55:03]VP Content Tony Skinner grabs a word with Pete Camana, Chief Technology Officer for Tactical Data Links at Viasat Inc, about how the company is pushing the boundaries for Link 16 in low Earth orbit.This episode was produced by Noemi Distefano with music and sound mixing by Fred Prest

In this episode of The Weekly Defence Podcast, we discuss British Army hybrid drive vehicles; a senior Defence Insight analyst sheds light on the state of Eastern Europe’s armoured vehicle market; and our Asia-Pacific editor highlights the most significant recent stories from the region from the past month.Newsround [01:00]Saab is planning to offer its new Lightweight Air-launched Decoy Missile as part of its Gripen E/F proposal for Finland’s HX Fighter Programme.In Russia, there weren’t too many eye-catching land systems on display last week at the Army 2020 show in Moscow, but one notable new addition was the BMP-3M Manul IFV. Enhancements in the latest BMP-3 upgrade include a more ergonomic troop compartment plus increased protection and firepower.And finally, after a bumpy decade or so of development, the US Army is claiming progress on the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System after successful live-fire tests in late August. This indicates that problems affecting an earlier assessment have been resolved.News in focusA £3 million (USD4 million) contract was awarded recently by the MoD to a group of companies to demonstrate hybrid electric-drive systems on Foxhound and Jackal vehicles. Land Reporter Flavia Camargos Pereira describes how this new technology will improve the capabilities of the British Army while also hitting UK government greenhouse gas reduction targets.News Editor Ben Vogel dives into Turkish anti-ship cruise missile developments, following the test-firing last month of the Atmaca Block I system. Atmaca incorporates indigenous concepts and doctrines of the Turkish Navy, which have been developed over decades of experience, testing, and planning.Asia-Pacific round-up [13:50]Asia Pacific Editor Gordon Arthur is on the line from New Zealand to round up and discuss highlights from India, Indonesia, and South Korea. India has banned 101 categories of imports as it continues to promote self-sufficiency and the Indian Army is once more turning its attention to light tanks. In Indonesia, meanwhile, efforts continue to modernise the eclectic mix of ships in the country's navy; and South Korean released a major five-year spending blueprint.Deep Dive: Eastern European armoured vehicles [31:50]Senior Editor Naval Richard Thomas is in conversation with Defence Insight Senior Analyst Land Sonny Butterworth, to talk about key armour programmes in Central and Eastern Europe. Which platforms are most in demand, and why?This episode was produced by Noemi Distefano with music and sound mixing by Fred

In this episode of The Weekly Defence Podcast, we focus on what’s next for Iran following the rejection of a US request to extend the UN arms embargo; and we look into the latest programmes in the air domain.Newsround [00:42]Northrop Grumman is preparing to announce a new international customer for its Firebird optionally piloted MALE ISR aircraft. The manufacturer said last week that negotiations are in progress to finalise the deal.Ukraine completed deliveries of the 8x8 BTR-4E armoured personnel carrier, with the arrival of the final batch of four vehicles. In total, 45 of these APCs have been delivered.Bucking the COVID-19 trend, the Army 2020 show went ahead this week in Moscow.  Russian Helicopters announced it has started serial production of the upgraded Mil Mi-35P attack helicopter.News in focus News Editor Ben Vogel and Land Reporter Flavia Camargos Pereira discuss the pending procurement of KF41 Lynx IFVs by Hungary.A €2 billion deal with Rheinmetall marks a significant step forward for Central/Eastern European procurement. Flavia also discusses other acquisitions Hungary is looking at as it modernises its armed forces.  As  directed energy weapons programmes continue to progress, Multimedia Journalist Noemi Distefano discusses new fibre laser technologies and Lockheed Martin’s High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical-dazzler and Surveillance (HELIOS)  system. Interview: US sanctions against Iran  [19:39]The UN Security Council on 14 August rejected a US call to extend the arms embargo on Iran that was imposed in 2015.Ben Vogel is on the line with Shephard contributor Leonid Nersisyan to explore what this means for Iranian procurement, if it is possible for the country to achieve self- sufficiency in making defence equipment and how the end of the embargo brings Russia into the picture.Deep Dive: Future air programmes [34:26] In this interview with Shephard Defence Insight Senior Analyst (Air) Ilker Aktaşoğlu, we discuss sixth-generation aircraft programmes and loyal wingman initiatives. Remote carriers are likely to be core components of future programmes: what are the advantages and the disadvantages?  What role will AI play?Industry Voice: Viasat [46:38]Shephard Media's VP Content Tony Skinner speaks to Ben Atkinson, Product Manager at Viasat, about the capabilities of the company's Move Out/Jump Off (MOJO) product, which provides real-time air/ground situational awareness and gateway functions on the go. This episode was produced by Noemi Distefano with music and