What does it take to lead the Royal Australian Navy in an increasingly uncertain world?

Courage, integrity, service, respect and excellence.

Defence Connect senior journalist Robert Dougherty holds a rare in-depth conversation with Royal Australian Navy Commander Surface Force, Commodore Antony Pisani CSC, aboard the helicopter landing dock HMAS Canberra off the NSW coast.

CDRE Pisani offers an uncommon look behind the scenes inside the operational engine room of the Royal Australian Navy. From force generation and fleet readiness to training, sustainment and deployment, he outlines how Australia prepares its surface fleet for everything – from border protection to outright conflict.

From crew readiness, system maintenance and advanced warfighting exercises to emerging autonomous technologies and evolving defence priorities, this discussion connects strategic policy with real-world capability.

The conversation explores how the Royal Australian Navy is adapting to a more complex global environment, what a "focused force" really means, and how new platforms and partnerships are shaping the future of maritime operations.

Not to be missed, the discussion provides a seldom seen, clear window into how Australia is building a more capable and resilient naval force in response to shifting geopolitical realities.

Enjoy the conversation, The Defence Connect team

Defence Connect has made minor audio edits to this podcast interview for clarity and listener experience.