The Plan for the ADF In 2026
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 2026
1:01 The Australian Army
4:41 The Royal Australian Navy
06:36 The Royal Australian Air Force
08:30 Munitions Manufacturing
09:42 Looking to the Future
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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.
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