Lockheed Martin Australia has appointed Rob Milligan to the newly created Program Director role for Air 6500 Phase 1 (Air 6500-1), following the company’s recent selection as Defence’s strategic partner to steward the Joint Air Battle Management System. The appointment is effective starting 1 January 2024.
Milligan, currently the lead for Lockheed Martin’s Integrated Warfare Systems and Sensors line of business and Australian program custodian of the world-class Aegis Combat System, has spent over 30 years working in the defence sector.
Located in Lockheed Martin Australia’s Adelaide state office, Milligan will drive program delivery outcomes for Air 6500-1.
This will encompass growing a sovereign industrial capability including a dedicated integrated air and missile defence (IAMD) workforce and establishing supply chain partnerships with primes, small-to-medium-enterprises, and universities.
As a priority, Rob will lead the establishment of the contractual and governance arrangements in partnership with defence and develop a rigorous program delivery pathway for Air 6500-1.
“We are focused on having a high performing leadership team in place to support the Australian Defence Force’s vision to transform into a fully integrated and IAMD capable force through Air 6500-1,” said Warren McDonald, Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealand Chief Executive.
“I congratulate Rob on his appointment. With significant expertise across defence program management, Rob is the right leader for this endeavour. I look forward to working with Rob to build on our industrial capability base grown during the initial competition phase including industry partnerships to bring Air 6500-1 to fruition.”
Rob Milligan’s experience, skills and knowledge extend across maritime engineering, including warship acquisitions, platform upgrades, sustainment, to leading engineering, logistics and program management in the Royal Australian Navy, the Royal Australian Air Force, the Australian Public Service and currently in defence industry.
He served for 13 years in the Royal Australian Navy as a naval engineer and holds a Bachelor of Engineering from University of New South Wales.
“I am extremely honoured to be selected to lead the program management for Air 6500-1," said Milligan.
"Throughout my career, I have continually strived to meaningfully contribute to ensuring the best outcomes for the Australian Defence Force. I’m excited to lead this critical IAMD program that will protect Australia.”