Combat-proven capabilities: How precision-strike systems are evolving for tomorrow’s battlespace
Long-range precision strike is fast becoming a cornerstone of modern military capability. As threats grow in complexity and coverage - from A2/AD environments to dispersed high-value targets - armed forces must respond with scalable, GPS-independent systems capable of delivering fast, coordinated effects.In this second episode of our special series with Rafael, we explore the evolving demands of precision strike. Rafael Vice President of Business Development and Marketing, Gideon Weiss, joins Brigadier General A, a former Israeli Air Force commander and senior advisor to Rafael, to unpack how combat experience is shaping CONOPS, system design, and autonomous targeting.We discuss:How precision systems are being adapted for contested environmentsThe growing role of AI-powered data fusion in shortening timelinesThe strategic importance of availability, affordability and technology partnershipsMissed episode one on high-energy laser weapons? Be sure to catch up on Rafael’s journey to deploy operational laser defence systems - and where this technology is heading next.
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Why Tactical UAVs Are Winning the Future Battlefield
In this special edition of the Shephard Defence Podcast, brought to you in partnership with Aeronautics Group, Tony Skinner sits down with Dan Slasky, President and CEO of Aeronautics, to explore how cutting-edge tactical unmanned aerial systems are reshaping today’s battlefields.From the Orbiter 5 to innovations in loitering munitions and VTOL platforms, the conversation dives into how Aeronautics is building battlefield-ready solutions that are smaller, smarter, and more survivable than ever before. Slasky also discusses how a full-system mindset - integrating UAVs, sensors, communications, and ground control - is helping operators meet complex mission needs with greater speed and precision.Key Topics:Why tactical UAVs are displacing larger, costlier platformsHow Aeronautics integrates loitering munition capability into ISR platformsInnovations in VTOL UAV systems for land and naval useHow in-house R&D and a full-stack mission approach create better outcomesWhether you're a defence tech enthusiast or a decision-maker shaping the future battlespace, this episode provides insight on what’s next in tactical unmanned systems.
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Energy evolution: How laser defence systems are powering the next phase of air defence
High-energy laser (HEL) systems are emerging as a pivotal layer in modern air defence strategies. As threats grow more agile, diverse and frequent – from swarming UAVs to short-range rockets – militaries are increasingly turning to cost-effective, sustainable methods of interception. HEL technology now offers high-capacity, low-cost engagement options that enhance traditional defences and reduce dependence on finite missile inventories.Among the companies advancing this capability is Rafael, which has made HEL systems a key strategic focus within its broader layered defence portfolio.In this first episode of a two-part special series, we talk with Gideon Weiss, Rafael’s vice president of business development and marketing, and Dr R, a Senior Systems Engineer in laser systems in Rafael’s Land and Naval Systems Division.
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Defence Insight Briefs - Europe Rearming and the Naval Market
In this episode of Defence Insight Briefs, Senior Naval Analyst Giovani Rasio discusses all things naval. With Europe rearming, where is the money being spent and how are current affairs changing the calculus for NATO? IMDEX Asia is right around the corner. Do you want the best industry information for you and your team? Listen to the full podcast and be sure to visit Shephard's Defence Insight to view equipment entries on all the systems discussed. See you at IMDEX!
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Defence Insight Briefs: IDEX and the Middle East
In this episode of Defence Insight Briefs, Senior Land Analyst Sam Hart dives into the Middle East market on the first day of IDEX. With a mix of aligned and non-aligned countries, competitors and new technologies, IDEX is poised to dominate industry conversation at a time of regional change. Sam discusses who we will see, what they will be exhibiting and how the changing face of global conflict will be represented at the show. Who are the regional powers and how are they flexing their soft and hard power muscles? Listen to find out!Tune in to hear insights into the latest technological innovations and get an idea of who is selling and who is buying in this episode of Defence Insight Briefs.IDEX land brief: https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/66e15ce30983fda45218dcca/67adfa7771c85a19c58cb3e7_DI%20Market%20Overview%20-%20IDEX%20Land.pdfFree equipment entries:https://plus.shephardmedia.com/programmes/detail/new-generation-light-armoured-vehicles-tracked/?utm_source=di-ftvhttps://plus.shephardmedia.com/programmes/detail/8x8-ifv-qatar/?utm_source=di-ftv
The Shephard Defence Podcast tells the stories of the defence industry, trends in military technology and the procurement programmes that get the kit into the hands of the warfighter. In a monthly news roundtable, Shephard Media’s team of international journalists and analysts take deep dives into defence issues, focusing on niche market sectors and looking at where the trends are heading. We also feature content developed by Shephard Studio in cooperation with our partners. If you work in the defence sector, have an interest in defence technologies, or are an end-user of military equipment, then the Shephard Defence Podcast is aimed at you.
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