In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Peter Dean, professor of strategic studies at The Australian National University and within the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre and one of the lead authors of the 2023 Defence Strategic Review, and Hans Tench, senior executive and global AUKUS lead from Leidos Australia, to unpack the rapidly evolving strategic, political and industrial landscape surrounding AUKUS, with a particular focus on the often-overlooked Pillar 2.

The conversation follows the first face-to-face meeting between US President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, where President Trump signalled strong support for AUKUS and committed to accelerating the delivery of nuclear-powered submarines under Pillar 1.

The trio discuss a wide range of topics, including:

• The strategic significance of President Trump's reaffirmation of AUKUS and what it means for the Virginia Class submarine deal with Australia.
• Why Pillar 2 has been lagging and how political cycles in all three nations have slowed momentum.
• The challenge of balancing defence budgets while pursuing big-ticket capabilities like nuclear-powered submarines alongside emerging technologies.
• The shift from a "balanced force" to a focused and integrated force, and whether Australia risks drifting back towards old models.
• The potential of hypersonics, integrated air and missile defence, artificial intelligence, autonomy and the US "Golden Dome" initiative.

Enjoy the podcast,
The Defence Connect team