SPOTLIGHT: Shaping the future of ADF training and simulation with Benjamin Rice, managing director of Coherics

Joint-capabilities
|
By: Robyn Tongol

In this episode, host Steve Kuper sits down with Benjamin Rice, managing director at Coherics, to unpack the critical role of training and simulation in preparing the Australian Defence Force and its allies for the challenges of modern warfare.

In this episode, host Steve Kuper sits down with Benjamin Rice, managing director at Coherics, to unpack the critical role of training and simulation in preparing the Australian Defence Force and its allies for the challenges of modern warfare.

From the vast live-fire exercises of Talisman Sabre to the increasingly vital domains of cyber, space and multi-domain operations, the conversation explores how realistic training environments are evolving to keep pace with technological change and operational demands.

Drawing on his extensive Air Force career and industry expertise, Rice provides unique insights into the blending of live, synthetic and constructive training, and the importance of innovation in getting capability into the hands of the warfighter faster.

Together, they examine the future of training – from gaming-inspired immersion and augmented reality to tailored, on-demand learning solutions designed to accelerate readiness – and the cultural and institutional shifts required to make it all possible.

This is a deep dive into the future of defence training and simulation and how Australian industry is driving solutions that will keep our people sharp, adaptable and ready for the battlefield of tomorrow.

Enjoy the podcast,
The Defence Connect team

Tags:

Listen to previous episodes of the Defence Connect podcast:

Episode 11: PODCAST: Aerospace engineering, UAVs and Australia’s next generation of defence talent, with RMIT University’s Marcus Serong
Episode 10: PODCAST: Counter-drone systems, manufacturing and Australia’s defence industry priorities, with Northrop Grumman Australia’s Robert Denney
Episode 9: SPOTLIGHT: Australia’s loitering munitions, sovereign manufacturing and the future of drone warfare, with Innovaero’s Gregory Tunny
Episode 8: PODCAST: Contested logistics and Australia’s defence industry priorities at Land Forces 2026, with Amentum Australia’s Kim Katheklakis
Episode 7: PODCAST: Containerised solutions and human-in-the-loop systems at Land Forces 2026, with IAI’s Maxim Zemer
Episode 6: SPOTLIGHT: Lockheed Martin Australia’s priorities, leadership and life after service, with Jeremy King
Episode 5: THE PROGRESS REPORT: Leadership, mentorship and life at sea – Commander Melanie Lennard on 17 years in the Royal Australian Navy
Episode 4: PODCAST: Australia’s munitions manufacturing push at Land Forces 2026, with NIOA Group’s Robert Nioa
Episode 3: PODCAST: EOS showcases new interceptor and layered drone defence at Land Forces 2026, with Lee Kormany
Episode 2: CONTESTED GROUND: The information advantage – how AI is reshaping influence, competition and power

discover