Conversations with Vanguard Defence

Interview with Anthony March, Vice President, Marine & Mission Systems, Babcock Canada

In this week's episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones has an in insightful discussion with Tony March, Vice President of Marine and Mission Systems at Babcock Canada. A graduate of the Royal Military College of Canada, he holds degrees in mechanical engineering, defence studies, and marine engineering, along with an MBA from Athabasca University. He is also a graduate of the UCL Submarine Design Course and the Canadian Joint Command and Staff Program. Tony began his career in the Canadian Armed Forces in 1997 as a Marine Systems Engineer, serving in HMCS Montréal during Operation APOLLO. In 2003, he joined the Submarine Service, serving aboard HMC Submarines Victoria, Windsor, and Corner Brook, and later held various engineering and leadership roles in Halifax and Ottawa.

After 21 years in the Royal Canadian Navy, Tony transitioned to the private sector, joining Babcock Canada in 2018. He initially served as Vice President of Engineering Services before assuming his current role in 2024, where he oversees marine and mission systems operations.

Operating in Canada since 2008, Babcock Canada is a wholly owned subsidiary of Babcock International Group, a global defence, aerospace, and security company. For over 16 years, Babcock has been proud to play a critical role in supporting Canada's safety and security, delivering engineering and critical support services to defence and civil customers.

Drawing on decades of global experience, Babcock delivers fully integrated solutions tailored specifically for Canada and its unique environment across the land, marine, and aviation sectors.

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Interview with David Wiseman, Vice President, Secure Communications, BlackBerry

Check out this week's episode of Vanguard Radio. Host, J. Richard Jones, sits down for an illuminating conversation with David Wiseman, Vice President, Secure Communications, BlackBerry. With over 25 years of experience, his expertise spans software, security, mobility, and communications, honed through roles at BlackBerry, IBM, SAP, Sybase, and the US Navy. David holds a bachelor's in computer science from the University of Mary Washington and an MBA from UNC Chapel Hill. Early in his career, he contributed to developing groundbreaking technologies, including the world's first large-scale environmental geo-spatial database for NASA and radar data fusion software for shipboard systems with the US Navy.

BlackBerry provides enterprises and governments the intelligent software and services that power the world around us. Based in Waterloo, Ontario, the company's high-performance foundational software enables major automakers and industrial giants alike to unlock transformative applications, drive new revenue streams and launch innovative business models, all without sacrificing safety, security, and reliability. With a deep heritage in Secure Communications, BlackBerry delivers operational resiliency with a comprehensive, highly secure, and extensively certified portfolio for mobile fortification, mission-critical communications, and critical events management. The company is also a pioneer in leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to deliver advanced cybersecurity solutions to its customers.

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A Conversation with Daniel Kroese, Vice President, Public Policy & Government Affairs Palo Alto Networks 

In this week's episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down for an engaging conversation with Daniel Kroese, Vice President of Public Policy & Government Affairs at Palo Alto Networks. Mr. Kroese is leading the company's engagement with policymakers and government stakeholders. He brings extensive Legislative and Executive Branch cyber policy experience, including roles as Staff Director for Ranking Member Katko on the House Homeland Security Committee and as a senior advisor to Director Krebs at CISA.

Previously, Daniel served as Chief of Staff to Congressman John Ratcliffe, chair of the House Homeland Cybersecurity Subcommittee. At Palo Alto Networks, he leverages this expertise to strengthen the cybersecurity ecosystem. Daniel is also a visiting fellow at the National Security Institute.

Palo Alto Networks is the world's cyber security leader, offering next-gen security solutions, expert services, and industry-leading threat intelligence. They empower organizations across every sector to transform with confidence.

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In the latest episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with France Hébert, Vice-President and General Manager of Defence & Security Canada at CAE. She leads operations across 16 sites with 800 employees. She also serves as President of SkyAlyne and CAE Military Aviation Training, and sits on the boards of CADSI, True Patriot Love, and Invest Ottawa.

With 35 years in defence and aerospace, France has held senior roles in strategy, business development, and operations, achieving success in complex billion-dollar programs. Her career includes service as a Canadian Armed Forces officer and roles at Bombardier, Nortel, and GDMS-C.

France holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Physics) from the Royal Military College of Canada, a Business Administration certificate from McGill University, and a PMP designation.

CAE provides critical expertise and solutions to enhance safety worldwide. As a technology company, it digitalizes the physical world through software-based simulation training and operational support. CAE empowers aviation and defence professionals to excel, especially in high-stakes situations.

With around 13,000 employees across 240+ sites in over 40 countries, CAE boasts over 75 years of industry-leading innovations in flight simulators and digital training programs. Committed to sustainability, CAE ensures its customers are always ready for key moments.

As Canada's largest defence company, CAE supports national security across NATO and its allies, equipping service members with advanced training and technologies to complete missions safely.

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Interview with Simon Carroll, President Saab Canada

In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Simon Carroll, President of Saab Canada, to explore the company's significant impact on the Canadian defence landscape. With over 35 years of experience supporting the Canadian Armed Forces, Saab has established a strong foothold across the country, including key operations in Ottawa, Halifax, and Medicine Hat. Simon, a former Officer in the Royal Australian Navy, brings three decades of expertise in the defence and naval sectors, spanning the Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, now leveraging that knowledge for Canada's unique defence needs.

Join us as we delve into Saab's recent achievements, including the award of the Soldier Portable Air Defence System (SPADS) project in February 2024 and ongoing collaborations with the Canadian Navy on the Halifax Class. Simon shares insights on the implications of Sweden joining NATO and discusses Saab's long-term strategy for Canada, highlighted by opportunities arising from the recent 'Our North, Strong and Free' report.

We'll also get Simon's perspective on the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP) Request for Information (RFI) and how Saab's collaborative approach fosters strong partnerships with the Canadian government and local industry. Tune in for a fascinating discussion on innovation, strategy, and the future of defence in Canada!

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Interview with Kwon-Sik Woo, Senior VP, Director of Marketing & Sales, Naval & Special Ship Business Unit, HD HHI

In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Kwon-Sik Woo, Senior Vice President and Director of Marketing & Sales for the Naval & Special Ship Business Unit at Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI). With over 28 years of experience in the global shipbuilding industry, Mr. Woo offers valuable insights into HHI's leading role in naval shipbuilding and defence contracting for the Republic of Korea Navy.

Mr. Woo's career journey began in HHI's Shipsales Department, moved to heading international offices in London and Singapore, and eventually to his current executive role. He discusses the evolution of HHI's Naval & Special Ship Business Unit, a world-renowned naval shipyard and licensed defence industrial shipbuilder. As HHI celebrates over 50 years of innovation and excellence in heavy industries, Mr. Woo sheds light on how the company continues to lead in engineering advancements, diversifying into offshore and machinery sectors, while remaining at the forefront of naval technology.

Join us for an engaging discussion on the future of naval defence, international collaboration, and the strategic direction of one of the most influential companies in the global shipbuilding landscape.

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Join J. Richard Jones as he sits down to speak with Jean-François Séguin, Head, Security Line of Business, ADGA about cybersecurity and the upcoming CPCSC certification process and how it will affect Canadian businesses.

With over 27 years of experience in the public and private security industry, Jean-François has established himself as a leader in risk management, public safety, compliance, systems & technology, cybersecurity, and crisis management. His extensive background includes developing and implementing robust security protocols, managing large-scale security operations, and leading cross-functional teams to ensure organizational resilience. Jean-François's commitment to excellence and innovation has consistently driven ADGA's success in delivering security solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of their security and defence sector customers.

Since 1967, ADGA Group has been a steadfast industry partner for Canada's defence and security sector. ADGA Group helps the Canadian Armed Forces, government, and industry clients fulfill their strategic and operational mandates by delivering advanced technical capabilities in:

Proudly Canadian-owned and operated, ADGA is committed to safeguarding Canadians, both domestic and international.

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In the latest episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones is joined by Steve O'Brien, CD, Tactical Systems Integration Lab Lead and Joe Milligan, CD, LC4ISR Support Manager of General Dynamics Mission Systems-Canada.

After a 27-year career in the CAF, serving in both the Infantry and Signal Corps, Steve O'Brien retired as a Master Warrant Officer and joined GDMS-C shortly after as a Mission Specialist. He is currently the Lead for several teams that support the Tactical Systems Integration Lab and provide on-site assistance to CAF fielding trials, exercises, and deployments.

After a career with the CAF, Joe transitioned to being a Trainer with GDMS and has spent the last 20 years in a support role as an FSR and Mission Specialist with GDMS. Joe is currently the LC4ISR Field Support Manager. Joe's teams support delivery, deployment, and operation of LC4ISR products to CAF as well as other nations.

General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada is a global defence and aerospace company with a worldwide reputation for excellence. In Canada, their operations focus on the delivery and support of C4ISR solutions for the Canadian Armed Forces and allied forces worldwide. They are proud to have been a partner with the Canadian government, industry colleagues, indigenous partners, and SMEs in developing and delivering innovative products and services for over 75 years in Canada. Through continuous engagement they have built a critical understanding of user needs and are confidently providing the capabilities necessary to support mission success today and into the future.

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Join J. Richard Jones as he peeks inside the cybersecurity industry with John Davis, Vice President of Public Sector, Palo Alto Networks. Together, they explore the history of the field as well as the technologies, business models, and trends that are driving the biggest changes.

Retired Major General John Davis has gained more than a decade of senior executive experience across all aspects of cybersecurity, while directing organizations in the U.S. national security sector. He expands cybersecurity initiatives and policy for the international public sector and assists governments and industries around the world in preventing successful cyber attacks. Mr. Davis has a proven record of achieving results in cybersecurity operations, strategy and policy. He has valuable experience building trusted leadership relationships across the public and private sectors, as well as the international cybersecurity landscape.

Palo Alto Networks is the world's cybersecurity leader. They innovate to outpace cyberthreats, so organizations can embrace technology with confidence. They also provide next-gen cybersecurity to thousands of customers globally, across all sectors. Their best-in-class cybersecurity platforms and services are backed by industry-leading threat intelligence and strengthened by state-of-the-art automation. Whether deploying products to enable the Zero Trust Enterprise, responding to a security incident, or partnering to deliver better security outcomes through a world-class partner ecosystem, Palo Alto is committed to helping ensure each day is safer than the one before. It's what makes them the cybersecurity partner of choice.

Palo Alto Networks is committed to bringing together the very best people in service of their mission and are proud to be the cybersecurity workplace of choice, recognized among Newsweek's Most Loved Workplaces (2023, 2022, 2021), with a score of 100 on the Disability Equality Index (2023, 2022), and HRC Best Places for LGBTQ Equality (2022).

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J. Richard Jones is back with another episode of Vanguard Radio. This time he's sitting down to speak with Tracy Medve, President & CEO of KF Aerospace and Board Chair of SkyAlyne. The discussion covers many topics, including Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) and SkyAlyne, the Canadian-Multi Mission Aircraft project (CMMA) and Team Poseidon.

Since she began her career in aviation in 1985, Tracy has held various senior airline management positions, including at Norcanair, Time Air, Canadian Partner, and Canadian Regional Airlines. Tracy was the co-founder of C.T. AeroProjects, a Calgary-based consultancy focused on air transport resource management, working with a wide range of public and private aviation clients around the world. From 2007 to 2012, Tracy was the President of Canadian North Airlines.

In May 2013, Tracy was appointed President of KF Aerospace and became President and CEO in August 2021. Tracy is a lawyer by training (University of Saskatchewan, 1982) and a graduate of the John Molson School of Business Global Aviation MBA program at Concordia University (2009). She is the 2007 recipient of the John Molson School of Business MBA Scholarship and was inducted as a member of the Beta Gamma Sigma honour society in 2009.

Tracy also served in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves as a Signals Officer from 1975 to 1981.

Founded by Barry Lapointe in the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia in 1970, KF Aerospace is Canada's largest commercial aviation maintenance, repair, overhaul, and modification (MRO) provider. With a workforce of over 1200 highly skilled employees, KF's multi-faceted business operations include first-class engineering and design services, commercial aircraft leasing and decades of experience as a commercial cargo carrier. KF Aerospace also has a long history of supporting and working with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) including managing the CFTS pilot training contract for the RCAF at Southport, MB since 2005.

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