PODCAST: Unpacking the independent analysis into Navy’s surface combatant fleet

Joint-capabilities
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By: Robyn Tongol

In this special episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, Liam Garman, Steve Kuper, and Rob Dougherty unpack the independent analysis into Navy’s surface combatant fleet – and what the recommendations will mean for the Royal Australian Navy and defence industry.

In this special episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, Liam Garman, Steve Kuper, and Rob Dougherty unpack the independent analysis into Navy’s surface combatant fleet – and what the recommendations will mean for the Royal Australian Navy and defence industry.

  • The podcast begins by examining how the recommendations will change the makeup of the Royal Australian Navy, with the introduction of up to 11 new general purpose frigates and the reduction of the Hunter Class program from nine to six.
  • The three then look into how the Royal Australian Navy appears to be grasping the benefits offered by autonomy.
  • They wrap-up the podcast discussing how the growth of Australia’s surface fleet to 26 may create challenges for the Defence workforce.


Enjoy the podcast,
The Defence Connect team

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Listen to previous episodes of the Defence Connect podcast:

Episode 11: CONTESTED GROUND: The information advantage – how AI is reshaping influence, competition and power
Episode 10: PODCAST: Next-generation equipment at Land Forces 2026, with Aquaterro’s Graeme Bulte
Episode 9: SPOTLIGHT: Defence electronics supply chains, counterfeit components and shortages
Episode 8: PODCAST: AUKUS, China and Australia’s defence industrial future, with former prime minister Scott Morrison
Episode 7: CONTESTED GROUND: When AI goes rogue – the emerging threat Australia isn’t ready for
Episode 6: PODCAST: Frontier AI, cyber warfare, and defending Australia’s military networks, with Wendi Whitmore and Tom Scully
Episode 5: PODCAST: Australia’s 2026 Intergenerational Report and national security implications, with Phillip Tarrant and Robert Dougherty
Episode 4: CONTESTED GROUND: AUKUS, deterrence, and the deepening Australia–UK strategic partnership
Episode 3: SPOTLIGHT: Unlocking Australia’s Defence estate through divestment, with Stantec Australia
Episode 2: CONTESTED GROUND: Is Australia ready to secure its place in an increasingly contested space domain?