The Challenge of Supporting Typhoon in Expeditionary Ops: The Key Role of the Logistics Support Squadron at RAF Lossiemouth

07/03/2017
2017-07-03 By Robbin Laird During my visit to RAF Lossiemouth, I had a chance to catch up with the Typhoon operational force at the base. This was an especially good time to do so as the RAF’s Typhoons have been engaged in a significant expeditionary operational tempo, ranging from Operation…

Australian Amphibious Ships Face Propulsion Challenge

05/21/2017
05/21/2017: According to several sources, Australia’s largest warships have experienced a propulsion system problem at sea and the Navy and its contractors are working to fix the problem. Australian naval engineers are investigating the problems in the propulsion systems of two Spanish-built warships. The Royal Australian Navy’s US$1.5 billion worth HMAS…

How to Fight with the Fleet You have Today and Prepare for the Fleet of the Future?: The Perspective of Vice Admiral Tim Barrett

05/08/2017
2017-05-02 By Robbin Laird During my most recent trip to Australia, the focus was upon how to shape an integrated ADF moving forward. During my interviews surrounding the Williams Foundation seminar on that theme, I have had the chance to talk to key decision makers in shaping a way ahead.…

Transitioning to the F-35: The Aussies and the F-35 Global Enterprise

04/26/2017
2017-04-21 By Robbin Laird During my recent visit to Australia, I had a chance to talk with Wing Commander Steven Bradley, Deputy Director Air Combat Transition Office, which is located in Canberra at Brindabella Park close to the airport. Last year, I visited Williamtown where the initial facilities for the…