PODCAST: Robotics and artificial intelligence in the military domain, with Lieutenant Colonel Dr Adam J Hepworth

Joint-capabilities
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By: Robyn Tongol

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Robert Dougherty is joined by the director of the Australian Army’s Robotic and Autonomous Systems Implementation and Coordination Office, Lieutenant Colonel Dr Adam J Hepworth, as they discuss emerging artificial intelligence and robotics implications for the Australian Army.

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Robert Dougherty is joined by the director of the Australian Army’s Robotic and Autonomous Systems Implementation and Coordination Office, Lieutenant Colonel Dr Adam J Hepworth, as they discuss emerging artificial intelligence and robotics implications for the Australian Army.

LTCOL Hepworth leads the advancement of emerging technology, including robotics, autonomous systems, AI and autonomy for the Australian Army. He holds a bachelor of science in mathematics from the University of NSW, a master of logistics and supply chain management from the University of South Australia, a graduate diploma in scientific computation and a master of science in operations research from the United States Naval Postgraduate School, and a doctor of philosophy in computer science from the University of NSW.

He is a visiting fellow at the University of NSW and an expert member of the Global Commission for Responsible AI in the Military.

The pair discuss a range of topics, including:

  • An outline of LTCOL Hepworth’s responsibilities as director of the Australian Army’s Robotic and Autonomous Systems Implementation and Coordination Office.
  • An invitation to join the Expert Advisory Group for the Global Commission on Responsible AI in the Military Domain, on behalf of the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs.
  • A general overview of responsible military AI and irresponsible AI, as well as the benefits achieved with military AI use and challenges from that use, that Australia needs to be aware of.
  • Short and long-term recommendations for governance and regulation of artificial intelligence in the military domain.
  • Work on responsible artificial intelligence in the military domain being completed in Australia.
  • The importance of keeping a human in the loop for AI-based decision making and the evolution of new military technology into the future.

Enjoy the podcast,
The Defence Connect team

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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