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PODCAST: The history of the F-35, with Betsy Clark

Joint-capabilities
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By: Robyn Tongol

In this episode of the Defence Connect podcast, Betsy Clark, former Australian government Department of Defence program reviewer for the F-35, joins host Liam Garman to unpack the history and making of the F-35 Lightning II, and her book, F-35: The Inside Story of the Lightning II.

In this episode of the Defence Connect podcast, Betsy Clark, former Australian government Department of Defence program reviewer for the F-35, joins host Liam Garman to unpack the history and making of the F-35 Lightning II, and her book, F-35: The Inside Story of the Lightning II.

  • The pair begin the podcast examining the origins of the F-35 program and how Australia found itself a partner.
  • Clark then details some of the hurdles faced by the program managers in developing the aircraft and how they were able to overcome them.
  • The pair wrap up the podcast unpacking how seizing and maintaining air superiority is fundamental in the modern battlespace.

Enjoy the podcast,

The Defence Connect team

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Listen to previous episodes of the Defence Connect podcast:

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