ONI Deputy Director-General – Digital and Technology, Dr Duncan Grove, has reiterated the Office of National Intelligence’s commitment to collaborating across government, industry, and academia in identifying national security science and technology priorities.
Dr Grove participated in a panel discussion at the Australian Defence Science, Technology and Research (ADSTAR) Summit in Canberra, alongside Major General Anthony Rawlins AM (DSC, Head Force Design), Matt Yannopoulos PSM (Associate Secretary of Defence), and Marin Halper (Vice President MITRE). The panel underscored the necessity for collaborative problem-solving to address complex security challenges.
“One of the big risks of the future is uncertainty, but it's also a great opportunity. The future isn't written yet and I think two of the things that really help in that space are agility and partnerships; I think they really matter in the Australian context,” Dr Grove stated.
“Technology is changing so fast that we need to be able to really adapt and adapt quicker than we ever have before.”
Dr Grove went on to emphasise the importance of a broad network of partnerships, noting, “You never quite know where that change is going to come from. So having a wide network of partnerships helps you triangulate where things are happening and who you partner with on solutions.”
Echoing Dr Grove’s views, Marin Halper stressed the importance of collective efforts in today's interconnected world. "It's no longer the case that any one country has a monopoly on creativity, or capacity, or capital. So, we are all in this together," he said, calling for the establishment of robust feedback loops that clarify mission requirements among likeminded countries.
The discussion also focused on the National Defence Strategy, with Dr Grove asserting that collaborative efforts must target the shared problems outlined within it. Major General Anthony Rawlins reinforced this sentiment, declaring, “You need to share the problem set together.”
Matt Yannopoulos highlighted the necessity for leadership to clearly articulate a risk appetite, saying, “Our actions have to support the words.”
The panel's consensus was clear: an effective approach to national security requires a unified strategy, rooted in collaboration, shared problem identification, and the integration of diverse perspectives.
Watch the full ADSTAR panel discussion(Opens in a new tab/window)
27 September 2024