ADM Podcast 179 - US to increase military presence in Australia, StrikeMaster success, and Indonesia's carrier

In this News Review episode, Grant McHerron, Nigel Pittaway and Kirra Davey discuss a few recent news items of interest.

We start with the news that Defence Minister Marles has met with the US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to discuss increasing US military presence in Australia, with more details expected after the next AUSMIN meetings expected before the end of 2026. The discussion moves on to the news that the StrikeMaster has been involved in NATO exercises in Europe, with Kongsberg and Thales referring to the capability as ready to go now, thanks to the NSM and Bushmaster being in production. Meanwhile, the PrSM increment 2 missile with the ability to hit moving targets remains in development.

Finally, we look at a former Italian aircraft carrier being donated to Indonesia on the proviso that Indonesia funds any refurbishment it may require. We wrap with a discussion regarding ADM's presence at Land Forces and the WA Defence Summit next month plus note that the next issue of the magazine will be delivered in time for distribution at both events.

Links:
Kongsberg and Thales StrikeMaster exercises in Europe
https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/kongsberg-and-thales-strikemaster-exercises-in-europe

Indonesia acquires Italian aircraft carrier
https://www.australiandefence.com.au/news/news/indonesia-acquires-italian-aircraft-carrier

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Producer: Steve Visscher
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