Australia is facing a fuel problem that most people don’t fully see yet.Petrol prices are rising, supply chains are tightening, and global tensions are starting to have real-world consequences at the pump. But this isn’t just about short-term price spikes. It’s about something deeper.See my original video on Australia's Energy Crisis: https://youtu.be/mI7OCn2ZBn0Australia sits at the very end of the global oil supply chain.We import the vast majority of our refined fuel, much of it travelling through one of the most critical chokepoints in the world: the Strait of Hormuz. Around 20–25% of global oil passes through this narrow stretch of water, and any disruption there, whether from conflict, blockades, or attacks on shipping, sends shockwaves across the entire global energy system.So what happens when that system is disrupted?In this episode of Talking Tactics, we break down Australia’s fuel vulnerability, how global events like a potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz could impact supply, and why Australia’s current fuel reserves leave us exposed.We also look at the bigger picture.Why does an energy-rich country like Australia export resources, but import fuel?How did we end up with such limited domestic storage and refining capacity?And most importantly, what needs to change?From cutting fuel excise in the short term, to investing in large-scale onshore storage, increasing domestic production, and rebuilding refining capability, this episode explores the practical steps Australia would need to take to prepare for a much larger fuel crisis in the future.Because this isn’t just about petrol prices. It’s about national resilience.#fuelcrisis #straitofhormuz #australiandefence00:00 We're In a Fuel Crisis01:09 The Global Shock02:48 Australia's Fuel Storage Problem03:54 The Cost of Living Hit04:48 A Failure of Strategy07:12 What Needs to Happen07:54 In the Short Term09:07 In the Medium Term10:13 In the Long Term11:29 What Do You Think?---Like the 3D printed models in the background? They were provided by Spack.au and Talking Tactics viewers can get 5% off the Camouflage Models range by using the following link: https://shorturl.at/R0Rl4Discount will be applied at checkout after using this link and placing an order. ---Talking Tactics delivers an informed and progressive look into new world Business, Finance, Politics, Infrastructure, Defence, Technology and Current Events. Talking Tactics is presented by Mel Pikos, Managing Director of TACTIC. TACTIC is an end to end solution for all your commercial office space needs including Workplace Strategy | Leasing Advisory | Workplace Design | Furniture Advisory | Fitout Construction. To increase the productivity of your office whilst strategically minimising costs, visit www.tactic.au or send an email to [email protected] with us on our socials:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/talkingtacticswithmelpikosTalking Tactics with Mel Pikos on FacebookTactic Spaces on Facebook@mel_pikos on Twitter@melppikos on Instagram@melpikos on TikTok

Australia does not have a formal obligation to fight in the Middle East beyond its alliance commitments, but in a high-intensity conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, what could Australia realistically contribute?In this episode of Talking Tactics, we break down a detailed hypothetical Australian Defence Force task group and explore what it would actually look like if Australia deployed military assets to support operations in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.From Hobart-class destroyers and Anzac frigates at sea, to F-35s, Super Hornets, Growlers, Wedgetails and tanker support in the air, this episode examines how Australia’s modern force structure fits into a coalition war scenario. We also look at submarines, mine warfare, logistics, and special forces roles, and how each piece would contribute to reopening one of the world’s most strategically important chokepoints.Beyond the order of battle, we explore the bigger question: would this kind of deployment actually make a difference, or is Australia’s role more about niche capabilities within a US-led coalition?And just as importantly, what does this say about Australia’s strategic priorities, force structure, and long-term defence posture in an increasingly unstable Indo-Pacific and global security environment?00:00 What Could It Look Like?01:05 What Is Australia Joined the War02:39 The Australian Task Group02:59 The Navy06:31 The Army07:24 The Air Force10:39 How Effective Would It Be?12:56 What Do You Think?---Like the 3D printed models in the background? They were provided by Spack.au and Talking Tactics viewers can get 5% off the Camouflage Models range by using the following link: https://shorturl.at/R0Rl4Discount will be applied at checkout after using this link and placing an order. ---Talking Tactics delivers an informed and progressive look into new world Business, Finance, Politics, Infrastructure, Defence, Technology and Current Events. Talking Tactics is presented by Mel Pikos, Managing Director of TACTIC. TACTIC is an end to end solution for all your commercial office space needs including Workplace Strategy | Leasing Advisory | Workplace Design | Furniture Advisory | Fitout Construction. To increase the productivity of your office whilst strategically minimising costs, visit www.tactic.au or send an email to [email protected] with us on our socials:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/talkingtacticswithmelpikosTalking Tactics with Mel Pikos on FacebookTactic Spaces on Facebook@mel_pikos on Twitter@melppikos on Instagram@melpikos on TikTok

Some of the most important aircraft in modern warfare don’t carry bombs or missiles. They collect information.In this episode of Talking Tactics, we break down Australia’s newest and most secretive intelligence platform, the MC-55A Peregrine, and what it means for the future of the Royal Australian Air Force.Built on the Gulfstream G550 and packed with advanced sensors, the Peregrine is designed to detect radar systems, intercept communications and map the electromagnetic battlespace across the Indo-Pacific.But this aircraft doesn’t operate alone.It forms part of a highly networked force alongside platforms like the F-35 Lightning II, E-7A Wedgetail and EA-18G Growler, helping the ADF see, understand and shape the battlefield before a shot is ever fired.In modern warfare, information dominance is everything.And the Peregrine may be one of the most important aircraft Australia operates… even if you rarely see it.00:00 Some Military Aircraft Aren't For Combat01:05 The Strategic Context02:59 The Acquisition Process04:43 What Can It Do? 07:29 Integration Into the RAAF09:39 Limitations and Risks10:56 What Do You Think?#australianmilitary #peregrine #raaf---Like the 3D printed models in the background? They were provided by Spack.au and Talking Tactics viewers can get 5% off the Camouflage Models range by using the following link: https://shorturl.at/R0Rl4Discount will be applied at checkout after using this link and placing an order. ---Talking Tactics delivers an informed and progressive look into new world Business, Finance, Politics, Infrastructure, Defence, Technology and Current Events. Talking Tactics is presented by Mel Pikos, Managing Director of TACTIC. TACTIC is an end to end solution for all your commercial office space needs including Workplace Strategy | Leasing Advisory | Workplace Design | Furniture Advisory | Fitout Construction. To increase the productivity of your office whilst strategically minimising costs, visit www.tactic.au or send an email to [email protected] with us on our socials:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/talkingtacticswithmelpikosTalking Tactics with Mel Pikos on FacebookTactic Spaces on Facebook@mel_pikos on Twitter@melppikos on Instagram@melpikos on TikTok

When we talk about Australia’s military power, we usually focus on ships, aircraft and weapons systems.But behind every capability the ADF relies on is something just as important… the companies that design it, build it, and keep it running.In this episode of Talking Tactics, we take a look at 10 Australian-owned defence companies that are playing a critical role in supporting the Australian Defence Force. From advanced sensors and autonomous systems to shipbuilding, steel manufacturing and specialised defence engineering, these companies form the backbone of Australia’s growing sovereign defence industry.In this video we cover:• The origins and history of each company• What they produce and how they fit into the defence ecosystem• Key defence projects and capabilities they support• How they contribute to Australia’s push for sovereign capabilityAs Australia looks to strengthen its defence industry and reduce reliance on overseas supply chains, these companies are becoming more important than ever.00:00 The Aussie Defence Industry01:20 EOS02:19 DroneShield03:21 CEA Technologies04:19 Stratos Seating05:23 Austal06:33 Aurecon07:25 SYPAQ Systems08:10 Bisalloy Steel Group09:11 GME Defence10:01 SupaShock10:48 What Do You Think?Let me know in the comments:Which Australian defence company do you think will grow the most over the next decade?Subscribe for more defence and strategy analysis from Talking Tactics.#TalkingTactics #ADF #DefenceIndustry #Australia #Military #SovereignCapabilityLike---Like the 3D printed models in the background? They were provided by Spack.au and Talking Tactics viewers can get 5% off the Camouflage Models range by using the following link: https://shorturl.at/R0Rl4Discount will be applied at checkout after using this link and placing an order. ---Talking Tactics delivers an informed and progressive look into new world Business, Finance, Politics, Infrastructure, Defence, Technology and Current Events. Talking Tactics is presented by Mel Pikos, Managing Director of TACTIC. TACTIC is an end to end solution for all your commercial office space needs including Workplace Strategy | Leasing Advisory | Workplace Design | Furniture Advisory | Fitout Construction. To increase the productivity of your office whilst strategically minimising costs, visit www.tactic.au or send an email to [email protected] with us on our socials:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/talkingtacticswithmelpikosTalking Tactics with Mel Pikos on FacebookTactic Spaces on Facebook@mel_pikos on Twitter@melppikos on Instagram@melpikos on TikTok

Australia’s F-35 Joint Strike Fighters are among the most advanced combat aircraft in the world. But the Indo-Pacific is enormous, and even cutting edge fighters face limits when operating across such vast distances.So what comes next?In this episode of Talking Tactics, we examine the F-47, a sixth generation fighter currently being developed in the United States as part of the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program. With expectations of greater range, advanced stealth, powerful electronic warfare systems and the ability to operate alongside autonomous aircraft, the F-47 could represent a major leap forward in air combat capability.But what would this aircraft actually mean for Australia?Could the Royal Australian Air Force eventually operate a fighter like this? And if it did, how would it fit into Australia’s future air combat strategy?In this video we explore:• Why sixth generation fighters are being developed• What we know about the F-47 so far• The technologies that could define the next era of air combat• How an aircraft like this might be used by the RAAF• Whether the F-47 could realistically be exported to AustraliaModern air warfare is evolving rapidly. Range, stealth, networking and electronic warfare are becoming just as important as speed and manoeuvrability. The question is whether Australia will eventually need a sixth generation fighter to maintain its edge.Let me know your thoughts in the comments. Should Australia consider acquiring aircraft like the F-47 in the future?00:00 The F-35s Aren't Good Enough01:31 Why Are 6th Generation Fighters Needed?03:05 What is the F-47 6th Gen Fighter Jet?05:34 How Could Australia Use the F-47?07:44 Could the USA Export The F-47 to Australia?09:38 What the F-47 Represents#RAAF #F47 #SixthGenerationFighter #MilitaryAviation #AirPower---Like the 3D printed models in the background? They were provided by Spack.au and Talking Tactics viewers can get 5% off the Camouflage Models range by using the following link: https://shorturl.at/R0Rl4Discount will be applied at checkout after using this link and placing an order. ---Talking Tactics delivers an informed and progressive look into new world Business, Finance, Politics, Infrastructure, Defence, Technology and Current Events. Talking Tactics is presented by Mel Pikos, Managing Director of TACTIC. TACTIC is an end to end solution for all your commercial office space needs including Workplace Strategy | Leasing Advisory | Workplace Design | Furniture Advisory | Fitout Construction. To increase the productivity of your office whilst strategically minimising costs, visit www.tactic.au or send an email to [email protected] with us on our socials:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/talkingtacticswithmelpikosTalking Tactics with Mel Pikos on FacebookTactic Spaces on Facebook@mel_pikos on Twitter@melppikos on Instagram@melpikos on TikTok

Australia is selling off parts of its Defence estate — but is this smart reform or short-term thinking?In February 2026, the government released the Defence Estate Audit, recommending dozens of military sites across the country be divested. Former barracks, training areas, inner-city land holdings and legacy infrastructure are now set to be sold, with proceeds reinvested into future capability.On paper, it makes sense: free up underutilised land, redirect billions into northern bases, advanced strike infrastructure and AUKUS-related upgrades.But Defence land is not just real estate.It’s history. It’s strategic depth. It’s optionality.In this video, we break down:00:00 We Are Selling Our Military Bases00:48 The Defence Estate Audit02:36 Reasons for the Sales04:11 The Reactions10:24 Redevelopment Options13:55 The Strategic QuestionAnd the deeper strategic question: once it’s sold, what happens if we need it back?Is this rational estate management in a constrained fiscal environment?Or are we trading long-term strategic flexibility for short-term revenue?Let me know your thoughts in the comments.Subscribe for more analysis on Australian defence, strategy and national security.#Defence #Australia #ADF #NationalSecurity #StrategicPolicy #HousingCrisis---Like the 3D printed models in the background? They were provided by Spack.au and Talking Tactics viewers can get 5% off the Camouflage Models range by using the following link: https://shorturl.at/R0Rl4Discount will be applied at checkout after using this link and placing an order. ---Talking Tactics delivers an informed and progressive look into new world Business, Finance, Politics, Infrastructure, Defence, Technology and Current Events. Talking Tactics is presented by Mel Pikos, Managing Director of TACTIC. TACTIC is an end to end solution for all your commercial office space needs including Workplace Strategy | Leasing Advisory | Workplace Design | Furniture Advisory | Fitout Construction. To increase the productivity of your office whilst strategically minimising costs, visit www.tactic.au or send an email to [email protected] with us on our socials:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/talkingtacticswithmelpikosTalking Tactics with Mel Pikos on FacebookTactic Spaces on Facebook@mel_pikos on Twitter@melppikos on Instagram@melpikos on TikTok

How powerful is the Royal Australian Air Force in 2026?In this episode, we rank every major frontline platform in the Royal Australian Air Force, from the F-35A and Super Hornet to the Growler, Wedgetail, Triton, C-17, KC-30A and Ghost Bat.This is not about which aircraft looks the coolest.It is about strategic impact.More importantly, we explore how the RAAF has evolved into a fully networked, fifth-generation force where aircraft like Triton, Wedgetail and the F-35 operate as one integrated system rather than isolated platforms.This is modern air power.This is networked warfare.I’m Mel Pikos and today we’re Talking Tactics.00:00 01:12 F35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter02:00 EA-18G Growler02:27 F/A 18F Super Hornet03:00 C-17A Globemaster III03:30 C-130J-30 Hercules03:57 C-27J Spartan04:22 KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport04:53 737 Boeing Business Jets05:15 KA350 King Air05:54 Dassault Falcon 7X06:30 P-8A Poseidon07:06 E-7A Wedgetail07:35 MQ-4C Triton08:35 Pilatus PC-2109:07 Hawk 12709:32 MC-55A Peregrine10:11 MQ-28 Ghost Bat---Like the 3D printed models in the background? They were provided by Spack.au and Talking Tactics viewers can get 5% off the Camouflage Models range by using the following link: https://shorturl.at/R0Rl4Discount will be applied at checkout after using this link and placing an order. ---Talking Tactics delivers an informed and progressive look into new world Business, Finance, Politics, Infrastructure, Defence, Technology and Current Events. Talking Tactics is presented by Mel Pikos, Managing Director of TACTIC. TACTIC is an end to end solution for all your commercial office space needs including Workplace Strategy | Leasing Advisory | Workplace Design | Furniture Advisory | Fitout Construction. To increase the productivity of your office whilst strategically minimising costs, visit www.tactic.au or send an email to [email protected] with us on our socials:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/talkingtacticswithmelpikosTalking Tactics with Mel Pikos on FacebookTactic Spaces on Facebook@mel_pikos on Twitter@melppikos on Instagram@melpikos on TikTok

In this episode, we break down what 2026 really means for the Australian Defence Force — not the headlines, not the hype, but the hard realities of delivery, integration, training and logistics.From the 125th anniversary of the Australian Army to the continued rollout of long-range strike, new armoured vehicles and amphibious capability… from the evolving surface fleet and submarine preparations inside the Royal Australian Navy to a fully networked, fifth-generation force inside the Royal Australian Air Force — we examine how promised capabilities are turning into operational reality.We look at HIMARS deliveries, Abrams and Redback production, the Mogami program, Ghost Shark and Ghost Bat testing, Wedgetail and Triton integration, and the rapid expansion of Australia’s sovereign munitions manufacturing — from missiles to 155mm shells.2026 isn’t a flashy year.It’s a transition year.A year where strategy meets logistics.Where exercises sharpen.Where industry becomes just as important as platforms.This is the year the foundations of Australia’s future force start to solidify.I’m Mel Pikos — and today, we’re Talking Tactics.00:00 What to Expect in 20261:01 The Australian Army4:41 The Royal Australian Navy06:36 The Royal Australian Air Force08:30 Munitions Manufacturing09:42 Looking to the Future---Like the 3D printed models in the background? They were provided by Spack.au and Talking Tactics viewers can get 5% off the Camouflage Models range by using the following link: https://shorturl.at/R0Rl4Discount will be applied at checkout after using this link and placing an order. ---Talking Tactics delivers an informed and progressive look into new world Business, Finance, Politics, Infrastructure, Defence, Technology and Current Events. Talking Tactics is presented by Mel Pikos, Managing Director of TACTIC. TACTIC is an end to end solution for all your commercial office space needs including Workplace Strategy | Leasing Advisory | Workplace Design | Furniture Advisory | Fitout Construction. To increase the productivity of your office whilst strategically minimising costs, visit www.tactic.au or send an email to [email protected] with us on our socials:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/talkingtacticswithmelpikosTalking Tactics with Mel Pikos on FacebookTactic Spaces on Facebook@mel_pikos on Twitter@melppikos on Instagram@melpikos on TikTok

When we talk about Australia’s military power, we usually focus on ships, aircraft, missiles, and vehicles.But behind every one of those capabilities is a defence company designing it, building it, integrating it, and keeping it operational.In this episode of Talking Tactics, we break down 10 of the biggest defence companies shaping the Australian Defence Force today. From shipbuilding and combat systems to missiles, autonomy, space, and land warfare, these firms form the industrial backbone of Australia’s military power.We look at:• How big these companies really are• How much defence revenue they generate in Australia• The major ADF programs they are responsible for• Why systems integration and sustainment matter as much as platforms• How defence industry power is shifting under AUKUS, guided weapons, and autonomy00:00 Australia's Defence Industry00:59 BAE Systems Australia02:38 Thales Australia04:12 Lockheed Martin Australia05:19 Raytheon Australia06:26 Northrop Grumman Australia07:30 Boeing Defence Australia08:34 Leonardo Australia09:51 Rheinmetall Defence Australia11:01 Saab Australia12:09 Hanwha Defence Australia13:15 What Do You Think?Australia’s defence industry is still dominated by large multinational primes, but policy is shifting toward sovereign capability, local manufacturing, and long-term industrial resilience. The next decade will reshape who sits at the top and who climbs fastest.This video isn’t about hype. It’s about understanding how Australia actually builds military power.#military #defenceindustry #adf ---Like the 3D printed models in the background? They were provided by Spack.au and Talking Tactics viewers can get 5% off the Camouflage Models range by using the following link: https://shorturl.at/R0Rl4Discount will be applied at checkout after using this link and placing an order. ---Talking Tactics delivers an informed and progressive look into new world Business, Finance, Politics, Infrastructure, Defence, Technology and Current Events. Talking Tactics is presented by Mel Pikos, Managing Director of TACTIC. TACTIC is an end to end solution for all your commercial office space needs including Workplace Strategy | Leasing Advisory | Workplace Design | Furniture Advisory | Fitout Construction. To increase the productivity of your office whilst strategically minimising costs, visit www.tactic.au or send an email to [email protected] with us on our socials:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/talkingtacticswithmelpikosTalking Tactics with Mel Pikos on FacebookTactic Spaces on Facebook@mel_pikos on Twitter@melppikos on Instagram@melpikos on TikTok

Antarctica is often seen as a frozen wilderness at the edge of the world. But in today’s strategic environment, it is becoming quietly important to global security, space operations, and great power competition.Today I examine whether Antarctica could play a role in future conflict, what the Antarctic Treaty actually allows, and why Australia needs to pay closer attention to what is happening on its southern frontier. From China’s expanding Antarctic presence to the role of satellites, sensors, and the Southern Ocean, this video breaks down what matters, what does not, and what it means for Australia’s long-term security.This is not about tanks on the ice. It is about information, access, and strategic advantage in a changing world.Should Australia be doing more in Antarctica, or is restraint still the smarter move?Today, we're talking tactics. #antarctica #australiandefence #geopolitics 00:00 Antarctica - The Next Global Battlefield01:20 A Brief History of Antarctica02:42 The Antarctic Treaty04:36 Australia in Antarctica06:06 Other Countries in Antarctica07:30 China's Activities in Antarctica09:36 Why Antarctica Matters for Australia's Security10:49 What if a War Breaks Out?12:33 What Should Australia Be Doing There?14:25 From Greenland to Antarctica---Like the 3D printed models in the background? They were provided by Spack.au and Talking Tactics viewers can get 5% off the Camouflage Models range by using the following link: https://shorturl.at/R0Rl4Discount will be applied at checkout after using this link and placing an order. ---Talking Tactics delivers an informed and progressive look into new world Business, Finance, Politics, Infrastructure, Defence, Technology and Current Events. Talking Tactics is presented by Mel Pikos, Managing Director of TACTIC. TACTIC is an end to end solution for all your commercial office space needs including Workplace Strategy | Leasing Advisory | Workplace Design | Furniture Advisory | Fitout Construction. To increase the productivity of your office whilst strategically minimising costs, visit www.tactic.au or send an email to [email protected] with us on our socials:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/talkingtacticswithmelpikosTalking Tactics with Mel Pikos on FacebookTactic Spaces on Facebook@mel_pikos on Twitter@melppikos on Instagram@melpikos on TikTok