Photo: Supplied by Anduril

Anduril Industries has unveiled a groundbreaking defence solution to address the escalating menace of combat drones. The new weapon, named Roadrunner, represents a cost-effective approach to counter the increasing threat of drone attacks.

The Southern California-based defence technology and weapons manufacturer acknowledges the rising accessibility of military-grade drones to terrorist groups. In response, Anduril aims to revolutionize the defence industry’s strategy in dealing with drone threats.

Developed in secret over the past two years, Roadrunner emerges as a compact autonomous fighter jet armed with a warhead. This unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) functions like a rocket during take-off and transforms into a high-speed plane to effectively combat the growing drone threat.

A notable feature of Roadrunner is its ability to autonomously return home, land, and be reused, setting it apart from other counterparts in defence technology. Described as a reusable, vertical take-off and landing (VTOL), operator-supervised Autonomous Air Vehicle (AAV), Roadrunner is equipped with twin turbojet engines and supports modular payload configurations for diverse mission requirements.

AMONG the motivational signs around Fort Zinderneuf, (‘Abandon hope all ye who enter here’, ‘The floggings will continue until morale improves’) one topic is taboo.

The words of the eminent public service mandarin Sir Humprey Appleby should be engraved in the stone in Blamey Square.

“A basic rule of government is never look into anything you don’t have to, and never set up an inquiry unless you know in advance what its findings will be”.

A report commissioned by the Department of Veterans Affairs allegedly found rates of partner violence ‘were elevated’ among current and former ADF members, relative to non-military populations.

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ADF domestic violence response in question | Australian Defence History, Policy and Veterans Issues (targetsdown.blogspot.com)

Photo: PTE Nicholas Marquis

The Australian Defence Force achieved a significant milestone with the inaugural live-fire exercise of the AIM-120 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) from the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) at the Woomera Test Range. Executed by personnel from the esteemed 16th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, this event, which transpired on November 14, marked a crucial phase in integrating the recently acquired enhanced NASAMS into the nation’s military capabilities.

The enhanced NASAMS, a ground-based air defence system with a focus on short-range capabilities, was put to the test at the Woomera Test Range in South Australia. This exercise aligns with the recommendations outlined in the Defence Strategic Review earlier in the year, aiming to fortify the Australian Army’s force protection system.

The live-fire demonstration garnered attention from high-ranking officials, including Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, Major General Andrew Bottrell, and representatives from both Australian and international Defence circles. Their presence underscored the strategic importance of this advancement in Australia’s military capabilities.

In a notable precursor to the live-fire event, the 16th Regiment gunners were introduced to the NASAMS system during a trial and certification activity near Jervis Bay in May. The system, an enhanced iteration of the original Norwegian design, incorporates Australian radar technology, a launcher based on the Hawkei platform, and an infrared/optical sensor. This amalgamation represents the foundational element of the Australian Defence Force’s Integrated Air and Missile Defence program.

Looking forward, the 16th Regiment is slated to deploy two batteries when fully operational capability is achieved by 2026. However, concerns have arisen regarding the adequacy of the SAM batteries, especially considering the decision to reduce each battery’s launchers from 6 to 3. This move, while logical from a logistical standpoint, prompts discussions about the overall sufficiency of Australia’s air defence infrastructure.

Comparisons have been drawn with other nations, notably Israel, which, despite its smaller size, boasts a greater number of SAM batteries. Furthermore, the absence of a three-layer defence bubble in most Australian states raises questions about the nation’s overall preparedness.

To address these concerns, some advocate for augmenting the existing SAM batteries with additional SM-6 launchers or their equivalents, aligning with the evolving landscape of direct energy weapons. Another proposed solution involves deploying the Aegis land-based defence system strategically at Fleet Base West, Darwin, and Fleet Base East. This strategic placement would create a comprehensive defence network, with NASAMS SHORAD fulfilling roles beyond the coverage of the Aegis system.

In conclusion, while the successful live-fire exercise at Woomera Test Range signifies a significant step forward in Australia’s air defence capabilities, ongoing deliberations about the optimal configuration of SAM batteries underscore the evolving nature of modern warfare and the imperative for a robust and adaptable defence infrastructure.

A recently released Thai hostage revealed that Israeli captives held with him by Hamas were subjected to physical abuse, including beatings with cables. The Thai national, not named in the report, informed the IDF that the Israelis faced harsher treatment compared to other foreign hostages. The captives, severely underfed, were given only one pita a day, occasionally supplemented with shared cans of tuna or a piece of cheese. The testimony aligns with previous accounts of mistreatment by Hamas.

The Thai worker, part of a group taken during the October 7 events in southern Israel, highlighted the large compound where they were held. The hostages, primarily Thai farmhands employed in Israel, endured challenging conditions. While 23 Thai hostages were released separately from a Qatar-brokered truce, nine remain in Hamas captivity.

Prof. Ronit Lubetzky from Ichilov Hospital noted that children among the hostages lost 10-17 percent of their body weight during the 50-plus-day captivity. In contrast to the Israeli hostages, the release of the Thai nationals did not involve an exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, visiting the freed Thai hostages, emphasized Israel’s commitment to bringing back all hostages and expressed hope for the release of those still held by Hamas. Cohen described Israeli-Thai relations as a “true friendship.”

China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is often considered more capable than acknowledged by the United States. Despite some identified issues such as lack of recent combat experience, corruption, and leadership challenges, China has rapidly built up its military over the past three decades. The PLA’s navy, air force, ground forces, and missile capabilities, including hypersonic weaponry, have seen significant advancements. China’s strategic objectives include defeating U.S. forces, and it has been actively preparing for various forms of warfare, including cyber warfare, electronic warfare, and non-kinetic tactics. While challenges exist beyond a certain distance from the Chinese border, China is expanding its global presence with a network of ports and airfields. It’s essential not to underestimate the PLA’s capabilities, as history has shown the consequences of underestimating adversaries. The possibility of a Taiwan attack, involving comprehensive military strategies, should not be dismissed, and it is crucial to be prepared for potential scenarios.

Amid the rapid technological maelstrom of World War 2, cutting-edge aircraft in 1939 found themselves obsolete by 1942, as the aviation industry churned out ever more fearsome and sophisticated warbirds.

Preserve ANZAC Day in South Australia: A Call to Action.

By Ray Payne OAM

In a distressing turn of events, there are ominous signs that ANZAC Day may cease to exist in South Australia. ANZAC Day, a day sacred to remembering and honouring the sacrifices of those who served and paid the ultimate price for our freedom, is now under threat. It is imperative that we unite as a community and exert collective pressure on both the South Australian state government and the federal government to preserve this significant day in our nation’s history.

The call for help is not an overstatement; it is a plea for action. ANZAC Day holds profound meaning for Australians, serving as a solemn reminder of the courage and sacrifice displayed by our servicemen and women throughout history. Without a united front advocating for the preservation of this day, the risk of its disappearance looms large.

To effect change, we must recognize the power that lies in numbers. It is the collective voice of a community that can sway decisions and steer the course of policy. Now, more than ever, we need to stand together and demonstrate that ANZAC Day is not just a date on the calendar; it is a symbol of our shared history and the sacrifices made for our freedom.

Allowing ANZAC Day to fade away in South Australia could set a dangerous precedent with far-reaching consequences. The ripple effect of this decision could extend beyond the immediate loss of a day of remembrance. It may diminish the value we place on our veterans and their contributions, eroding the very fabric of our national identity. As custodians of the legacy left by those who served, it is our responsibility to prevent such a detrimental outcome.

As veterans, the burden of ensuring the preservation of ANZAC Day falls squarely on our shoulders. We have a unique perspective on the significance of this day and a duty to honour the memory of our mates. Let us stand united in our commitment to preserving this important tradition, drawing upon our collective experiences to convey the gravity of the situation to decision-makers.

In conclusion, the threat to ANZAC Day in South Australia demands our immediate attention and concerted effort. We must galvanise our community, mobilise support, and engage with both the state and federal governments to safeguard this crucial day of remembrance. Let us not allow the sacrifices of our servicemen and women to be overshadowed by the passage of time. This is not a small issue; it is an urgent call to action, and together, we can ensure that ANZAC Day endures for generations to come.

Voice your opinion to the Premier of South Australia

The Hon Peter Malinauskas MP

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: (08) 8429 3232
(Office hours are 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday)

Postal address
GPO Box 2343
Adelaide  SA  5001