GovernmentNewsBusiness News

Conversations with Vanguard Defence

Vanguard Defence

Conversations with Vanguard Defence brings together the military, government and industry leaders shaping Canada’s defence future. Through candid interviews and expert analysis, the podcast explores the policies, technologies, operational challenges and strategic decisions affecting Canada’s defence and security community. It builds on Vanguard Defence’s long history as Canada’s defence trade journal of record, providing informed perspectives and practical insight from the people closest to the issues.

Play

Open in

20 episodes
Avg 19 min
English

Episodes 20

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

August 21 · 9 min
The New Vanguard Defence
The relaunched Conversations with Vanguard Defense opens with a look at what happens when a veteran journalist steps into one of Canada’s most connected and jargon-heavy industries. Henry Louis sits down with new editor-in-chief Steve Ladurantaye to unpack the newsroom reset, the rapid-fire website overhaul, and the bigger editorial ambition behind Vanguard’s next chapter. Steve Ladurantaye brings a rare mix of local, national, digital, and broadcast experience from the Ottawa Business Journal, Globe and Mail, Twitter, CBC, STV in Scotland, and Zonda. In this conversation, he explains what he’s already learned in his first few weeks inside defense and why the industry’s mix of acronyms, dual-use technology, and tightly woven relationships makes access and context more important than ever. You'll hear how Vanguard plans to move beyond the press release with deeper reporting, smarter context, and more original storytelling across web, magazine, podcast, and social. Henry and Steve also talk about building a two-way relationship with the defense community, why the podcast can give developing companies and influential voices a more direct platform, and how listener feedback will shape what comes next. We break down the opportunity in a fast-changing sector where startups, established firms, and public institutions all need better ways to connect. If you care about Canadian defense, industry storytelling, or how a legacy publication reinvents itself for a more engaged audience, this episode sets the tone for everything that follows.Perfect for defense professionals, industry watchers, founders, and anyone who wants a smarter, more accessible take on the stories shaping the sector.
- Transcript
May 20 · 33 min
Training the Future Force : AI Advantage & Scalable Simulation For Readiness
As Canada's defence ecosystem looks for faster, smarter, and more scalable ways to prepare personnel for increasingly complex operational environments, immersive training technologies are moving from the margins to the centre of readiness planning. In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones speaks with Raja Khanna, CEO of Lumeto, and Kavi Maharajh, the company's Chief Product Officer, about how Canadian-built AI-enabled simulation is reshaping training across healthcare and defence. The conversation explores how Lumeto's immersive platform, InvolveXR, is being applied beyond clinical environments into defence medicine, emergency response, medevac preparation, and broader readiness applications. Raja and Kavi discuss the challenge of scaling high-quality training as organizations grow their workforce, the evolving role of AI in simulation environments, and how adaptive learning systems can improve both competency and operational effectiveness. The discussion also dives into the realities of building dual-use Canadian technology, the importance of scalable and measurable training systems, and how companies like Lumeto fit into Canada's Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) ecosystem. From AI-powered virtual instructors to immersive scenario-based readiness training, this episode examines how emerging technologies are helping prepare the future force. Whether you are a defence leader, policy-maker, industry executive, or innovation stakeholder, this episode offers an inside look at the intersection of AI, immersive simulation, healthcare training, and national readiness.
- Transcript
May 15 · 18 min
Beyond the Battlefield: Why Business Readiness Is the Real Backbone of Defence
In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Peter Dawe, Vice President of Defence Strategy at Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), to explore why business readiness—not just technology or equipment—is becoming one of the most critical components of Canada's defence and economic security landscape. Drawing on more than three decades of experience in the Canadian Armed Forces and his current work supporting Canadian SMEs at BDC, Dawe offers a practical and execution-focused perspective on what it really takes for companies to succeed in defence and national-security supply chains. The conversation examines how operational discipline, governance, financial resilience and long-term sustainability often determine whether businesses can compete credibly in complex defence environments. Jones and Dawe discuss the growing intersection between defence and economic security, the realities facing SMEs entering defence markets, and why supply chains can quickly expose weaknesses in productivity, compliance and execution. They also unpack the role Canadian small- and medium-sized businesses play in strengthening national sovereignty and defence capacity beyond major procurement programs and prime contractors. The episode provides valuable insight for business leaders, defence suppliers and entrepreneurs considering opportunities in defence-adjacent industries, offering a grounded look at the fundamentals companies need before pursuing contracts in one of the world's most demanding sectors. Get in touch with BDC now!
- Transcript
April 22 · 18 min
Serco - Integrating People, Processes & Technology to Deliver LVC as an Enterprise
Vanguard Radio host J. Richard Jones welcomes Charlie Tucker, Solutions Engineer, Serco North America, for an in-depth conversation on how Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) training must evolve from isolated systems into a fully integrated enterprise capability. Drawing on Charlie's 15 years supporting modeling, simulation, testing, and acquisition programs in the LVC domain, this episode explores how Serco combines people, processes, and technology to help governments modernize readiness at scale. Listeners will hear how Serco's service-first heritage shapes its approach to defense training, emphasizing trust, lifecycle partnership, and mission outcomes over standalone products. Charlie explains why successful LVC environments depend not just on software and hardware, but on federation, interoperability, sustainment, governance, and the skilled teams that keep complex training ecosystems operational. The discussion also dives into Distributed Mission Operations (DMO), secure high-end fight environments, and Serco's experience supporting advanced mission networks such as NMON and JITTC. Charlie shares how synthetic environments can improve operational security, reduce cost and scheduling constraints, and create training scenarios beyond the limits of open-air ranges. Finally, the episode examines coalition readiness, Common Data Standards (CDS), and the policy frameworks required to enable multinational training. From standards alignment to approvals and governance, Charlie outlines how Serco helps customers build enduring, scalable LVC enterprises prepared for modern multi-domain operations.
- Transcript
April 15 · 20 min
The Next Generation of Warfighter Training
Interview with Jay Ballard, Vice President of Defence-Learning at Calian Defence Canada. As global threats evolve and operational environments grow more complex, the way militaries train must transform just as rapidly. In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Jay Ballard, Vice President of Defence-Learning at Calian Defence Canada, to explore what it takes to prepare the next generation of warfighters. Drawing on more than two decades of operational experience as a U.S. Navy Commander—including nearly 4,000 flight hours, multiple deployments, and elite credentials such as TOPGUN Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor—Ballard brings a practitioner's lens to one of defence's most urgent challenges: modernizing military training for a rapidly changing battlespace. The conversation dives into how the character of warfare is shifting toward multi-domain, data-driven operations—and what that means for training systems across land, sea, air, cyber, and space. From the integration of C5ISRT capabilities to the rise of synthetic training environments powered by AI, digital twins, and advanced modelling, Ballard outlines the technologies and approaches that will define the future of readiness. The episode also tackles the real-world barriers facing adoption within the Canadian Armed Forces, and how industry partners can help accelerate implementation at scale. Looking ahead, Ballard paints a picture of what military training could become over the next 10 to 15 years—if the right investments, partnerships, and strategies are put in place. For defence leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders alike, this episode offers a grounded and forward-looking perspective on how training must evolve to keep pace with modern warfare—and ensure operational advantage in an increasingly contested world.
- Transcript
April 10 · 20 min
It's Time to Rethink Canada's Military Training
As Canada accelerates defence spending and advances a new era of military recapitalization, one critical question is coming into sharper focus: are training systems keeping pace with the platforms they are meant to support? In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Jeff Tasseron to explore why Canada must rethink its approach to military training. Representing CAE Defense & Security—a global leader in military training and simulation that supports defence forces across naval, land, and air domains—Tasseron brings insight into how advanced, increasingly AI-enabled training systems are reshaping readiness. The company's work in delivering integrated training and mission support solutions provides a real-world lens on how modern forces can better prepare for complex, multi-domain operations. Drawing on decades of operational and strategic experience—from commanding maritime helicopter operations to shaping defence transformation at the highest levels—Tasseron unpacks the risks of continuing to procure platforms with stand-alone, OEM-controlled training systems. He makes the case for a fully integrated, national training ecosystem—one that connects people, platforms, and data to deliver real operational readiness. The conversation also examines how Canada's evolving procurement landscape, including the growing role of the Defence Investment Agency, is shifting attention toward maximizing domestic economic value. Training and simulation, Tasseron argues, represent a powerful—and often underleveraged—opportunity to build sovereign capability, create high-value jobs, and strengthen Canada's defence industrial base. From the challenges of today's fragmented training models to the promise of integrated simulation environments, this episode explores what it will take for Canada to modernize training as a core pillar of defence capability—not an afterthought. Key Discussion Points The operational risks of relying on stand-alone, platform-specific training systems The limitations of current training models in a joint, networked battlespace Why training modernization must sit at the centre of defence recapitalization How major Canadian defence programs are driving new approaches to training What an integrated national training ecosystem could look like The role of strategic partnerships in delivering training integration at scale Where Canada should begin—and what success looks like
- Transcript
February 23 · 27 min
Icebreakers, NSS 2.0 and Exporting Canadian Ship Design
Interview with Derek Buxton, VP Business Development & Ottawa, Vard Marine Inc. In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Derek Buxton, VP Business Development & Ottawa at Vard Marine Inc., for an in-depth discussion on the future of Canadian ship design, icebreaker innovation, and the evolution of Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS). With more than three decades of combined service in the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Coast Guard, Buxton brings a rare blend of operational experience and technical authority to the conversation. A graduate of the Royal Military College of Canada, he has served at sea, worked on exchange with Australia's Collins Class submarine program, led acquisition and in-service support for Canada's Victoria Class submarines, and later played a key leadership role in the Coast Guard's fleet renewal and future concept development. Today, he is spearheading new global opportunities for VARD in the government shipbuilding sector. The discussion explores: · Icebreakers and ice-capable vessel design: What lessons has VARD Marine learned from past programs, and how are those insights shaping the next generation of Arctic and high-latitude vessels? · NSS 2.0 and innovation: How can Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy evolve to better enable innovation, industrial resilience, and export-ready Canadian designs? · Designed in Canada: What differentiates VARD Marine's approach to icebreaker design from traditional models, and how is Canadian engineering talent influencing global projects? · The Vigilance program: Where does the program stand today, how has it evolved from its early inception, and what does it signal for Canada's sovereign maritime capability? · Looking ahead: What strategic and market challenges lie on the horizon for Vard Marine, and how is the company positioning itself to overcome them? As a wholly owned subsidiary of VARD Group AS in Norway—a Fincantieri company—Vard Marine combines Canadian naval architecture expertise with access to a global design and construction database. With offices in Vancouver, Ottawa, Houston, Vũng Tàu, and Gdańsk, the company continues to position Canadian-designed vessels on the international stage. From Arctic sovereignty to exportable ship design, this episode delivers a timely conversation about where Canada's maritime industrial base is headed—and how innovation, vigilance, and global partnerships are shaping the next chapter.
- Transcript
January 15 · 13 min
The Unified Sensor Advantage: Powering the Mission
Interview with Karl Schaub, Chief Solution Architect, Netscout In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Karl Schaub, Chief Solution Architect at NETSCOUT, to explore how next-generation sensor strategies are reshaping cyber defence, network performance, and mission assurance across federal and public-sector environments. With more than 25 years of hands-on experience spanning cybersecurity, network architecture, and product management, Schaub explains why the traditional separation between performance monitoring and security tools is no longer sustainable. The conversation dives into the concept of the unified, next-generation sensor—a single, high-fidelity capability that delivers both performance and security insights, drives operational efficiency, and enables a common data foundation across teams, missions, and analytics platforms. The discussion also examines what's driving the shift toward sensor grids, the operational and analytical advantages they unlock, and how NETSCOUT is approaching AIOps to turn deep-packet visibility into actionable intelligence. Schaub further unpacks the idea of multi-dimensional detection, explaining how richer, correlated data improves threat detection, resilience, and decision-making in complex, distributed networks—from data centres and cloud to 5G and the tactical edge. Topics include: · What defines a next-generation sensor · Why performance and security must converge · The benefits of modern sensor and sensor-grid strategies · NETSCOUT's role in enabling Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations (AIOps) · Understanding multi-dimensional detection and its mission impact A must-listen conversation for cyber, network, and defence leaders navigating the future of observability, resilience, and digital mission readiness.
- Transcript
January 11 · 22 min
Guardians of the North
Interview with Chris Pogue, President, Defence & Space, Calian In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Chris Pogue—President, Defence & Space at Calian and a retired Royal Canadian Air Force officer—to explore how Canada is shaping the future of defence, space, and allied interoperability. Drawing on more than two decades of senior executive leadership across Canada's defence and aerospace ecosystem, Pogue offers a candid, strategic look at Calian's expanding role in supporting NATO allies, modernizing military training, and advancing multi-domain operations at a time of accelerating global uncertainty. The conversation spans Calian's end-to-end defence, space, and training capabilities; Canada's evolving defence modernization agenda and budget context; and the growing importance of interoperability across allied forces. Pogue also unpacks Calian VENTURES—how it works, why it's different from other innovation programs, and how it helps connect Canadian SMEs to real-world defence and space priorities under the government's "Rebuild, Rearm, and Reinvest" vision. From VICCI-enabled collective training to the integration of virtual, live, and distributed environments that strengthen command and control, the episode examines how innovation is being operationalized—not just imagined. Guardians of the North closes with a forward-looking discussion on Calian's priorities in training, interoperability, and space operations, and what it will take for Canada to remain a credible, agile, and trusted defence partner on the world stage. A must-listen for defence leaders, policymakers, industry partners, and anyone interested in how Canada is preparing for the next era of collective security.
- Transcript
Dec 3, 2025 · 18 min
What Canadian pilots can expect from the 5th generation F-35
Interview with Andrew "Bundy" Soundy, F-35 Test Pilot, Lockheed Martin In this special episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with one of the world's most experienced F-35 test pilots: Andrew "Bundy" Soundy, Chief Test Pilot for the F-35 at the 461st Flight Test Squadron, Edwards Air Force Base. A Royal Military College graduate turned Lockheed Martin test pilot, Bundy brings over 1,100 hours in the F-35 and decades of operational and test experience across the CF-18, F-16, and fifth-generation platforms. In a wide-ranging and candid conversation, he traces his journey from RMC to Cold Lake to Edwards—and offers a rare insider look at how the F-35 evolves, adapts, and continually pushes the boundaries of modern airpower. Bundy explains what it means to test fifth-generation capability in a program built on continuous upgrades. He breaks down the mindset shift required for pilots transitioning from fourth-generation fighters, the realities of new stealth-tactics training, and how Canada's upcoming F-35 cadre will inherit a unique tactical worldview unlike anything before it. From operating in extreme Arctic cold, to demonstrating the aircraft for partner nations, to testing interoperability with NATO allies and next-generation platforms, Bundy shares firsthand insights into the F-35's performance, range, and global readiness. He also looks ahead to the rapid rise of AI, manned-unmanned teaming, the U.S. Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft vision, and how adaptable platforms like the F-35 will shape the tactical air environment for decades to come. This is one of the most detailed, practical, and forward-looking conversations you'll hear on fifth-generation fighter operations—and what's coming next. If you want to understand the future of airpower—and Canada's place in it—this episode is essential listening.
- Transcript
Nov 16, 2025 · 22 min
Delivering an All-Encompassing and Sovereign Canadian Sustainment Solution
In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Sheldon Gillis, MSC, CD, CPSP Campaign Lead at Babcock Canada, for a deep and timely conversation about what's next for Canada's submarine future—and why sustainment is just as important as the platform itself. With over 25 years of distinguished service in the Royal Canadian Navy—including command at sea, operational deployments across the globe, leadership roles in the Arctic, and senior oversight of naval requirements—Sheldon brings unparalleled insight into what it takes to deliver a modern, sovereign, and mission-ready submarine capability. Together, they explore the major developments shaping the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP), including the recently announced Teaming Agreement between Babcock Canada and Hanwha Ocean. This landmark partnership positions Babcock as the exclusive In-Service Support partner to Hanwha Ocean, uniting world-class submarine design and build expertise with Canada's only proven, industry-led submarine sustainment enterprise. Listeners will hear Sheldon unpack: · Why sustainment must be integrated from Day One, in parallel with submarine construction · How Babcock's 17 years of experience sustaining the Victoria-class fleet will translate into value, readiness, and reliability for CPSP · The advantages of Hanwha Ocean's in-service KSS-III submarine—a platform already operating globally · The long-term regional and economic impact CPSP could deliver across Canada, including jobs, innovation, and STEM development · What accountability and availability truly mean in designing a future-focused enterprise · How Babcock's integrated sustainment approach supports a sovereign, Canadian solution that endures for generations From operational realities at sea to the industrial partnerships required on land, this is a comprehensive look at how Canada can build not just a submarine fleet—but a lasting national capability. Whether you're tracking CPSP, following defence industry developments, or simply interested in how major national projects take shape, this episode offers expert insight into one of the most consequential defence procurements of our time. Tune in to Vanguard Radio for a deep dive into delivering an all-encompassing and sovereign Canadian sustainment solution.
- Transcript
Oct 30, 2025 · 15 min
Leadership Under Pressure: Managing Complex Defence Projects
When the stakes are high and the timeline is tight, what does leadership look like? In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones speaks with Paul Knowles, Senior Vice President and District Manager at PCL Construction, whose nearly 30-year career spans some of Canada's most demanding infrastructure projects. From the nation's capital to remote northern installations, PCL's work under Paul's leadership often unfolds in secure, mission-critical environments—where precision, collaboration, and trust aren't just valued, they're essential. Paul shares his insights into what it takes to deliver complex defence projects under pressure, from balancing transparency with security compliance to fostering collaboration among military, government, and private-sector partners. With a background in civil and construction engineering and decades of experience leading high-performance teams, Paul offers a rare look behind the curtain at how large-scale national projects come together—and the leadership mindset that keeps them on track when the margin for error is razor-thin. Listeners will hear stories of innovation, contingency planning, and real-time problem solving that define modern defence construction in Canada. 🎙 Key discussion topics include: Leading teams when every decision counts Balancing transparency and security requirements Collaborating across the defence ecosystem Innovations driving performance in mission-critical builds The future of leadership in Canada's defence infrastructure landscape
- Transcript
Oct 24, 2025 · 15 min
Canada's Newest Defense Supplier is One of the World's Oldest
Safran is a name that is synonymous with aerospace and defense innovation and now, this global powerhouse is deepening its roots in Canada. In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Louis Girardin, CEO of Safran Electronics & Defense Canada, to explore how one of the world's oldest defense innovators is bringing new energy and cutting-edge technologies to Canada's evolving defence landscape. Louis shares his perspective on Safran's long and storied history, the company's expanding footprint in Montreal, and the strategic role Safran Electronics & Defense plays in advancing capabilities across air, land, sea, and space. He discusses how Safran's world-class technologies—ranging from avionics and navigation to optronics and mission systems—are enabling greater interoperability and sovereignty for Canada and its allies. The conversation also delves into the broader Canadian defense market, the challenges and opportunities facing the country as it strengthens its industrial base, and how Safran is helping to build new partnerships and capabilities for the future. Whether you're in the defense industry, a policymaker, or a technology enthusiast, this episode offers a compelling look at how global expertise and Canadian innovation are coming together to shape the next chapter of defense excellence. Key Discussion Points: Who is Safran, and what role does Safran Electronics & Defense play globally? How and when did Safran Electronics & Defense Canada take shape? The company's growing presence and operations in Montreal Safran's contributions to Canada's defence and technology ecosystem Key innovations and technologies supporting national sovereignty Opportunities and challenges in the Canadian market
- Transcript
Oct 22, 2025 · 11 min
EllisDon: Supporting Canada's Defence Strategy through Capability and Collaboration
In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones speaks with Chris Lane, Senior Vice President and Area Manager at EllisDon Corporation, about how one of Canada's leading construction and infrastructure companies is helping to strengthen the nation's defence readiness. Chris shares insights from his decade-long leadership journey with EllisDon—from his early days in the UK's construction sector to overseeing major projects in Canada for clients like the Government of Canada, Defence Construction Canada, and the Department of National Defence. He discusses EllisDon's unique approach to collaboration, innovation, and long-term value creation—factors that set the company apart in an increasingly complex defence infrastructure landscape. Together, they explore EllisDon's role in supporting Canada's National Defence Strategy, its involvement in projects tied to NORAD modernization and the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP), and how agile contract models and integrated project delivery are shaping the future of military infrastructure in Canada. This conversation highlights how capability, collaboration, and commitment to excellence are driving EllisDon's contributions to national security and resilience. Topics Include: What differentiates EllisDon in the global construction and defence markets How EllisDon supports Canada's evolving defence and NORAD modernization initiatives The company's perspective on contract models that deliver maximum value for Canadians How EllisDon's expertise positions it to contribute to future submarine and defence infrastructure projects
- Transcript
Oct 20, 2025 · 21 min
Building the North: Infrastructure, Innovation, and Indigenous Partnerships
In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Jim Landon, President of ATCO Frontec, and Jim Stark, Director, North of 60, ATCO Frontec, to explore the company's pivotal role in building and sustaining Canada's northern infrastructure. From the Canadian Arctic to Europe, ATCO Frontec delivers the operational backbone that supports government, defence, and industry in some of the most remote and challenging environments on Earth. Together, they discuss how defence and civilian infrastructure needs intersect in the North, the importance of dual-use projects that bolster both national security and community resilience, and the innovative approaches required to deliver facilities management, camp services, and logistical support where conditions are extreme. Listeners will gain insight into ATCO Frontec's deep partnerships with Indigenous communities, including its work with Nasittuq Corporation on the North Warning System and CFS Alert, as well as how these collaborations are creating lasting benefits for northern economies and people. The conversation also looks ahead to the future of northern infrastructure development, exploring how emerging opportunities in defence modernization, sustainability, and strategic infrastructure are reshaping Canada's Arctic presence. Whether you're interested in defence logistics, northern development, or the growing importance of public-private and Indigenous partnerships, this episode offers a compelling look at how ATCO Frontec is helping Canada build, sustain, and secure its North.
- Transcript
Oct 17, 2025 · 22 min
Hanwha: Ready to Deliver Submarines – and Beyond – for Canada
In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Michael Coulter, President and CEO of Hanwha Global Defence, and Vice Admiral (Ret'd) Steve Jeong, Senior Executive Vice President and Head of Naval Ship Global Business at Hanwha Ocean, to discuss one of the most significant naval programs in Canada's modern history — the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP). Hanwha Ocean's shipyard in Geoje, South Korea, is one of the world's largest and most advanced shipbuilding facilities, where the company builds the cutting-edge KSS-III submarine — a next-generation platform designed to meet the demands of modern underwater operations. With over 31,000 employees and decades of experience constructing submarines, destroyers, and advanced naval vessels, Hanwha is positioning itself as a global partner of choice for Canada's future submarine fleet. Together, Coulter and Jeong explore: · The advanced capabilities and Arctic readiness of the KSS-III submarine and its alignment with CPSP requirements. · Hanwha's delivery schedule and approach to in-service support for one of the largest conventional submarine orders in decades. · The company's industrial and economic plan for Canada, including domestic partnerships, job creation, and technology transfer. · How Hanwha's unsolicited proposal to the Government of Canada reflects its confidence, capacity, and long-term commitment to Canadian defence sovereignty. Listeners will also gain insights into what life is like aboard the KSS-III — from advanced automation to improved habitability for submariners — and how Hanwha's growing North American footprint, including its acquisition of Philly Shipyard, fits into a broader strategy to expand into global markets across Europe, Australia, and the Middle East. Tune in to discover how Hanwha Ocean is not only ready to deliver submarines — but ready to help transform Canada's underwater future.
- Transcript
Oct 13, 2025 · 26 min
How Does LR Support Naval Submarines?
Featuring Matthew Palmer, Global Commercial Lead, Submarines at Lloyd's Register Hosted by J. Richard Jones In this episode of Vanguard Radio, we dive beneath the surface of naval innovation with Matthew Palmer, Global Commercial Lead for Submarines at Lloyd's Register (LR). A former Royal Navy Engineering Officer who served on nuclear-powered submarines, Matthew brings unique technical insight into how LR is shaping the future of submarine safety, design, and lifecycle assurance. From the Naval Submarine Code to LR's Submarine Assurance Framework, Palmer shares how these goal-based standards are enabling navies and shipbuilders worldwide to design, build, and sustain submarines that meet the highest levels of safety, performance, and compliance. He also discusses how LR helps navies extend the life of existing fleets, integrate emerging technologies, and adapt to a rapidly evolving underwater battlespace. Together with host J. Richard Jones, Matthew explores questions such as: How does LR support both designers and operators of naval submarines? Why do navies turn to LR for independent assurance and compliance? How can standards evolve to keep pace with new technologies? What lessons can be drawn from LR's experience with global commercial fleets to support in-service submarines? How can LR assist navies in extending the operational life of ageing submarines? Whether you're a defence professional, naval engineer, or simply fascinated by the future of undersea capability, this episode offers a deep look into how Lloyd's Register continues to define trust and technical excellence in the world's most complex marine environments.
- Transcript
Oct 3, 2025 · 9 min
Mission Ready Water – Below the Waves
Interview with Corey Switzer, Director, WaterTech Operations & Military Market Leader, BluMetric Environmental Inc. In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Corey Switzer, Director of WaterTech Operations and Military Market Leader at BluMetric Environmental Inc. With over 13 years of experience delivering mission ready water in some of the world's most demanding environments, Corey shares insights into how BluMetric designs, builds, and sustains advanced water and wastewater treatment systems for the military, mining industry, and remote communities. From the Arctic to beneath the ocean's surface, the conversation explores: Who is BluMetric and what they offer The critical importance of purpose-built water treatment systems Submarine water treatment and the unique challenges below the surface Arctic deployments and designing for extreme conditions Why reducing energy, space, weight, and consumables is mission critical The role of OEM in-service support for long-term reliability Water recycling and the future of sustainable solutions Discover how BluMetric is redefining resilience and reliability in water technology—ensuring access to clean, safe water whenever and wherever it's needed.
- Transcript
Sep 12, 2025 · 25 min
More than Middleware: Powering Canada's Next-Gen Defence Systems with RTI Connext®
Canada's defence landscape is evolving rapidly — from NORAD modernization to Arctic missions — and data is at the heart of the transformation. In this episode, host J. Richard Jones sits down with John Breitenbach, Director of Aerospace & Defence Markets at Real-Time Innovations (RTI), and David Pratt, Principal at David Pratt & Associates and former Canadian Minister of National Defence, to explore how a data-centric architecture is reshaping the way military systems are designed, integrated, and deployed. Together, they dive into the most pressing developments in Canadian and U.S. defence policy, including lessons from the U.S. "Golden Dome" missile defence initiative, the growing role of AI in countering emerging threats, and the critical need for interoperability across allied forces. They examine how RTI Connext® goes beyond traditional middleware, delivering secure, resilient, and scalable solutions that support multi-domain operations and ensure Canada's Armed Forces can move fast without sacrificing long-term capability. From Joint Fires modernization to coalition interoperability, this episode unpacks what it means for Canada to stay future-ready while fully aligned with allies. Discover why making data the most important asset is the key to building systems that endure, adapt, and thrive in the face of evolving challenges. If you'd like to learn more, visit rti.com or contact info@rti.com.
- Transcript
May 22, 2025 · 13 min
Boots on the Ground: A SITREP from General Dynamics' Mission Specialists
In the latest episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones has the opportunity to chat with Reaghan Sunstrum, Mission Specialist at General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada and Steve Cross, also a Mission Specialist at General Dynamics Missions Systems–Canada. Their conversation revolves around the Canadian Army experience, the Canadian Army in Latvia and Battle Lab. Reaghan Sunstrum is a Mission Specialist at General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada, and a dedicated Canadian Army Reservist based in Calgary, AB. She has 16 years of service in the Army Reserves as a Signal Operator and currently holds the rank of Master Warrant Officer (MWO). She serves as the Company Sergeant Major (CSM) for 41 Service Battalion, 14 Company. Reaghan earned a bachelor's degree in communications from Mount Royal University, and her leadership and technical expertise continue to make her a valued asset in both her military and civilian roles. Steve Cross is a Mission Specialist at General Dynamics Missions Systems–Canada and a retired Sergeant supporting the Canadian Armed Forces as a Signal Operator for 16 years. Active in both the Reserve and Regular force during that time, Steve has supported Exercises and deployments both domestically and abroad. With recent experience in Latvia both in uniform and with GD, Steve's experience helps define new capabilities and carve a way forward for the army. General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada is one of Canada's largest and most innovative defence companies, delivering and sustaining capability for Land C5ISR. They provide advanced thinking, design expertise, and implementation know-how to equip the Canadian Armed Forces with leading-edge hardware, software, and systems. General Dynamics' DIGITALspine mobilizes digital transformation by connecting every sensor, effector, and decision maker. It enables technological innovation at pace with mission requirements and simplifies forward capability enhancements and configurability based on evolving needs. At the edge of conflict, soldiers can securely tap into new and legacy systems while operating seamlessly with joint, interagency, and allied partners across land, air, sea, and cyber. In this episode: Transitioning from army to industry. Experience behind C5ISR technology development Op REASSURANCE and the Canadian Army in Latvia General Dynamics' Battle Lab And more!
- Transcript

Showing 1–20 of 20 episodes