GPS-denied operations with “Battle Buddy” drones | Peter Milani of Ichor Autonomy
Release Date: 10/20/2024
Thinking Like the Bad guys: Counter-Drone Tactics & Tech with Department 13’s Ben Westgarth
Tactics & Tech Podcast (TTP)
🔍 Episode Summary: In this episode, we sit down with the Chief Technology Officer of Department 13, a leading Australian counter-drone company, to explore how they’re reshaping the fight against rogue and non-cooperative drone threats. We dive into the real-world challenge of drone detection and takeover, the philosophy behind resilient electronic warfare systems, and why traditional jamming isn’t enough. From audio signal processing to RF exploitation, the CTO shares his unique journey from self-taught software engineer to leading one of Australia’s most advanced drone defense tech...
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Robotic Javelin Fire & Building Uncrewed Systems Startups with Stephen Bornstein
Tactics & Tech Podcast (TTP)
In this episode of the Tactics & Tech podcast, we’re joined by Stephen Bornstein, founder of Cyborg Dynamics Engineering and Managing Director of Athena AI. Stephen walks us through the story behind Australia’s first robotic Javelin missile fire, shares how AI-driven battlefield tech is transforming the fight, and offers rare insight into what it really takes to build a defence tech startup in Australia. This episode is packed with lessons on the future of uncrewed systems! 🔑 Key Takeaways: Robotic Javelin Fire – His team conducted Australia's first live Javelin missile...
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Swarm Troopers & the Future of Drone Warfare with David Hambling
Tactics & Tech Podcast (TTP)
Summary In this episode we sit down with David Hambling, the author of Swarm Troopers and a prolific Uncrewed systems and tech Journalist, to dive into the rapid evolution of drone warfare. David shares how commercial drone technology has completely outpaced traditional military innovation, leading to a revolution on the battlefield. We discuss the failures of rigid defense procurement systems, the rise of AI-driven drone swarms, and how uncrewed systems are shaping the future of warfare. What really stood out was how drones have become a democratized technology—no longer limited to...
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Future War, Tactics & Tech: MAJ GEN Mick Ryan (Rtd) on Lessons from Ukraine and What’s Next
Tactics & Tech Podcast (TTP)
Episode Summary: In this episode, we dive into the future of warfare with retired Major General Mick Ryan. As a leader, strategist, and author, Mick brings decades of experience and sharp insights into the evolving battlefield. We explore how uncrewed systems and innovative tactics are shaping modern conflicts like Ukraine and how Australia can prepare for its own future challenges. From leadership development to the urgent need for industrial reform, Mick shares why adapting quickly and thinking strategically are essential for success. This conversation is packed with lessons on how...
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Drone Threats, and the New Jersey Mystery: Inside the World of drone Intel with Mike Monnik
Tactics & Tech Podcast (TTP)
Episode Summary: In this episode, we explore the cutting-edge world of drone threats and counter-UAS systems with Mike Monnik, founder of DroneSec. From high-tech adversary tactics to the intriguing mystery of recent drone sightings in New Jersey, this episode dives deep into how intelligence shapes the fight for control of the skies. Discover how drones are evolving as tools of both innovation and disruption, and why the battlefield is no longer limited to conflict zones. Whether you’re fascinated by technology, strategy, or the future of aerial security, this episode offers an...
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Teaching Tech by doing: Empowering Neurodiverse kids with Andrew Schubert
Tactics & Tech Podcast (TTP)
Episode Summary: In this episode, we talk with Andrew Schubert, a former Army Tradesman and Army MakerSpace Project Manager. More recently, he's been working for HighCom (Formerly XTEK) as an Innovation and Product Specialist, and he's passionate about helping kids and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Andrew shares his journey from Defence, industry projects to founding Urban Maker, a social enterprise that fosters creativity and technical skills in neurodiverse kids and young adults. Andrew talks about how learning by doing, 3D printing, and design thinking can transform...
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2024: Year of the Drone – Trends, Highlights, and our stories
Tactics & Tech Podcast (TTP)
Episode Summary: In this special year-end episode, we reflect on 2024 – a year that truly felt like the Year of the Drone. We take a moment to properly introduce ourselves, sharing our journeys into the UAS world and how Tactics & Tech came to life. From standout moments on the podcast to key developments in the Australian and global UAS sectors, we unpack the trends and milestones shaping the future of uncrewed systems. Join us for a look back, a peek forward, and a chance to get to know the people behind the mics. Key Takeaways: 1. Introducing the Hosts: Josh and Crowey share their...
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Ukraine's Drone Revolution | Lessons from the Front Line with DR Oleksandra Molloy & Dmytro Frolov
Tactics & Tech Podcast (TTP)
In this episode, we sat down with Dr. Alexandra Molloy, a senior lecturer at UNSW and aviation program lead, and Dmytro Frolov, a former Ukrainian military drone pilot and CEO of Gnizdo Ltd. Dr. Malloy shared insights from her research on drones in modern warfare, highlighting lessons learned from the war in Ukraine and emphasizing resilience, rapid adaptation, and the role of drones as force multipliers. Dmytro recounted his journey from civilian engineer to battlefield drone pilot, showcasing the transformative impact of drones on modern conflict and the collaborative efforts driving...
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Steve Baxter is laser focused on Australia's Defence Tech Future
Tactics & Tech Podcast (TTP)
In this episode, we sat down with Australian investor and entrepreneur Steve Baxter to explore his journey from serving in the Australian Army through starting and growing his own tech businesses, and becoming a successful investor in innovative tech. Recently, he's focused on Defence technology with The Beaten Zone Venture Partners with the aim of driving growth in Australian companies. In our discussion, Steve shares his unvarnished advice on the challenges of the Defence sector, the importance of energy and manufacturing in Australia, and also some more general advice on pitching, building...
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Debunking Drone Deceptions: Ex-CIA Officer James Acuna Cuts Through the Hype
Tactics & Tech Podcast (TTP)
In this episode, we had the privilege of speaking with James Acuna, a former CIA operations officer and founder of the Baltic Ghostwing Center of Excellence. James shares his fascinating journey from the world of espionage to consulting and ultimately setting up an uncrewed testing facility in Eastern Europe. In our discussion we cover the challenges of delivering advanced drone technology to Ukraine, the importance of testing environments for combat readiness, and why Estonia is quickly becoming a hub for drone innovation. James also provided incredible insights into the tactical side of...
info_outlinePeter Milani from Ichor Autonomy discusses his journey in robotics, particularly focusing on military applications. Peter is one of the smartest engineers we know, and has bootstrapped his own autonomous urban exploration drone that can be used to support complex urban clearance operations for infantry, special forces, law enforcement and more.
He shares insights on the challenges faced in developing autonomous systems, the importance of teamwork, and the ethical considerations surrounding robotics in warfare. The discussion also touches on the Australian Defence industry and the need for innovation and support for local companies.
Takeaways
- Building a good team is crucial for overcoming challenges quickly and effectively.
- A key challenge for robotics is localisation (knowing where it is in space) - and it's increasingly difficult in GPS denied environments.
- Understanding the basics of autonomy is key to building good robotics.
- Using robotics to reduce exposure of soldiers to danger is more ethical than replacing people's jobs.
- Defence innovation in Australia needs more support to keep IP and technology in Australia.