An Update on the HMS Queen Elizabeth and the UK F-35s: August 2018

09/02/2018
We have followed the building and preparation for the new Queen Elizabeth class submarines by the UK over the past few years. Now the new carrier is coming to the United States for integration with the UK F-35Bs, which are in the United States, and working with the USMC as…

Working the Logistics Con-Ops as the CH-53K Enters the Force

08/31/2018
By Robbin Laird The heavy lift transition from CH-53E to CH-53K is one of the last modernization efforts of Marine Corps Aviation set in motion when Lt. General Trautman was Deputy Commandant of Aviation. Although this essential capability is last replacing the readiness challenged 30-year-old CH-53E, it is leveraging lessons…

Looking Back at RIMPAC 2018: The Perspective of Air Commodore Craig Heap

08/29/2018
By Robbin Laird During my five years of visits to Australia, I have had the opportunity to meet with and to talk with Air Commodore Heap several times. As the Commander of the Air Force’s Surveillance Response Group, Air Commodore Heap has had the challenge of leading one of the…

Shaping Enhanced Sovereign Options: Leveraging the Integrated Force Building Process

08/28/2018
By Robbin Laird The Williams Foundation has held a series of seminars over the past few years, which have progressively looked at the transformation of the Royal Australian Air Force and to the shaping of cross-modernizing Australian Defence Force.  Referred to overall as building a fifth generation force, the focus…

The Defense of Australia: Looking Back and Leaning Forward

08/26/2018
By Robbin Laird Sydney, Australia During my August 2018 visit to Australia, I had a chance to meet with and discuss the question of the evolving approach to the defense of Australia with a member of the Australian National University, Andrew Carr. Dr. Carr is working towards the conclusion of…