SPOTLIGHT: Developing sovereign kit for the ADF, with David Connors and David Frith from Australian Defence Apparel

Joint-capabilities
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By: Robyn Tongol
SPOTLIGHT: Developing sovereign kit for the ADF, with David Connors and David Frith from Australian Defence Apparel

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, David Connors — chief technology officer/chief information security officer — and David Frith — Australian industry capability manager — at Australian Defence Apparel (ADA), discuss their work developing critical defence equipment for modern warfighters.

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, David Connors — chief technology officer/chief information security officer — and David Frith — Australian industry capability manager — at Australian Defence Apparel (ADA), discuss their work developing critical defence equipment for modern warfighters.

 


Topics covered include:

  • ADA’s broad suite of products for Defence applications.
  • Technological processes underpinning delivery of ADF kit.
  • Balancing design and manufacturing innovation with inventory management.
  • Building a sovereign supply chain in cooperation with local SMEs.
  • ADA’s R&D work and the future of defence gear.

Enjoy the podcast,
The Defence Connect Team

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Listen to previous episodes of the Defence Connect podcast:

Episode 11: SPOTLIGHT: Lockheed Martin Australia’s priorities, leadership and life after service, with Jeremy King
Episode 10: THE PROGRESS REPORT: Leadership, mentorship and life at sea – Commander Melanie Lennard on 17 years in the Royal Australian Navy
Episode 9: PODCAST: Australia’s munitions manufacturing push at Land Forces 2026, with NIOA Group’s Robert Nioa
Episode 8: PODCAST: EOS showcases new interceptor and layered drone defence at Land Forces 2026, with Lee Kormany
Episode 7: CONTESTED GROUND: The information advantage – how AI is reshaping influence, competition and power
Episode 6: PODCAST: Next-generation equipment at Land Forces 2026, with Aquaterro’s Graeme Bulte
Episode 5: SPOTLIGHT: Defence electronics supply chains, counterfeit components and shortages
Episode 4: PODCAST: AUKUS, China and Australia’s defence industrial future, with former prime minister Scott Morrison
Episode 3: CONTESTED GROUND: When AI goes rogue – the emerging threat Australia isn’t ready for
Episode 2: PODCAST: Frontier AI, cyber warfare, and defending Australia’s military networks, with Wendi Whitmore and Tom Scully