iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

In a very exciting personal milestone, my first book chapter was published today in "Strategy and Airpower in the East and South China Sea: China, the United States, and Great Power Rivalry", part of the Cass Military Studies series from Routledge. www.taylorfrancis.com/books/edit/1...

taylorfrancis.com

Strategy and Airpower in the East and South China Sea | China, the Uni

This book examines the role of airpower in the great power rivalry between the United States (US) and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in the East and South

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 12/08/2026

Great to meet @fmalufti.bsky.social of CSIS Indonesia & @jatosint.bsky.social this afternoon! It's a fantastic source for everything happening in Indonesian defence. For those in JKT (or passing through) working on defence, security, and foreign policy topics, let me know - I'd love to connect 🇦🇺🤝🇮🇩

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 07/08/2026

Some reflections from me on the last part of the discussion from the latest "Australia in the World" with @limdarrenj.bsky.social @stephendziedzic.bsky.social concerning alliances, the nature of broader security ties and commitments, and informal / quasi-formal partnerships.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 26/07/2026

My toddler (all toddlers?) is like an anime character. Sprints everywhere or collapses in a huff. Goes feral for food. Emotes his sentences wildly or delivers quiet monlogues to himself. He's never seen Naruto but did actually do the run for a while.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

After a long period of radio/meeting silence, it's good to see some energy back in the Quad. No meetings at the Ministerial or Leader level for a year, and now possibly three FMMs of one variety or another in ~8 months if, as Marco Rubio has suggested, "we will meet again later this year".

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

I spoke to SBS News yesterday about the potential impacts for AUKUS of the appointment of Andy Burnham as UK PM. In short: I see no reason to doubt that the UK remains fully invested in AUKUS, both for strategic and domestic political/industrial reasons.

sbs.com.au

'Ceases to be a nuclear power': The high-stakes deal the new UK PM inherits

Andy Burnham has inherited a major AUKUS commitment with Australia. Whether Britain can deliver it is another question.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 17/07/2026

I made my @news.abc.net.au "730" debut last night, discussing the recent breakdown in the US-Iran ceasefire. It was an honour to be part of Australia's premier political analysis program & contribute in some small measure. @nscanu.bsky.social @aspi-org.bsky.social www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PeF...

youtube.com

Trump's strategy on Iran leaves the world in limbo | 7.30

YouTube video by ABC News In-depth

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Reposted by David M. Andrews

Richard Dunley @redunley.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

The 2026 Public Attitudes towards the ADF survey by the War Studies Research Group at UNSW Canberra has just been released. It follows up & expands on the 2025 survey assessing what the public think of Defence & the ADF. Here are a few highlights. www.unsw.edu.au/content/dam/... 1/

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

I know I'm predisposed to be interested in the new Australia-Fiji alliance, but it really strikes me as a remarkable development in the context of security agreements, middle powers, and Australian foreign policy. Where else has a middle power pursued such an extensive vision of regional security?

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 23/06/2026

Today I caught up on this episode of The Asia Chessboard from May with Mike Green & Justin Bassi @aspi-org.bsky.social reflecting on their previous careers as senior government advisors and now as the heads of two of Australia's largest national security think tanks.

csis.org

Grand Strategy Down Under | The Asia Chessboard | CSIS Podcasts

Mike sits down with Justin Bassi to examine Australia’s latest 2026 National Defence Strategy and what it reveals about Canberra’s evolving strategic outlook.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 22/06/2026

3yo has (not inaccurately) announced "Rugby is daddy's favourite sport! I want to watch rugby!" and then proceeds to shout "Come on, rugby!" at the highlights package. Big 'Rob Lowe at the Superbowl wearing an NFL logo hat' energy. Next step: "He's been doing it all day, sir!"

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 13/06/2026

Just drove past a pretty sizeable One Nation street stall in Lane Cove, of all places. Wild times...

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 12/06/2026

My 3yr old at 930pm last night, still not going to sleep: "Who's that Pokemon?...SQUIRTLE!"

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 05/06/2026

I highly recommend Waleed Aly's most recent column addressing the politics of AUKUS, including the reaction to the updated optimal pathway, people’s inquiry & the reasons why its origins still loom over today’s debates. The conclusion stood out to me especially.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 22/05/2026

A very good article here by India's former Foreign Secretary, Vijay Gokhale, making the case for a reassessment of the Quad. Looking forward to seeing what happens at the Foreign Ministers' Meeting next week: the first in a year after two FMM in the first six months of Trump's term.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 07/05/2026

Last night I joined TRT World on "The Newsmakers" to discuss the causes and consequences of the recent uptick in global military expenditure, as reported by @sipri.org. @nscanu.bsky.social www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BXw...

youtube.com

Why the world is spending more on weapons than ever before

YouTube video by The Newsmakers

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 01/05/2026

Back on the #NatSecPod for the first time since handing over the reins ~6 months ago, but this time I'm there as a guest! This week's episode of the @nscanu.bsky.social podcast is all about the 2026 National Defence Strategy. Have a listen here for the full chat 👇 shows.acast.com/the-national...

shows.acast.com

2026 National Defence Strategy: evolution, not revolution | The National Security Podcast

A podcast by the ANU National Security College

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 28/04/2026

Good to see the announcement of a new Secretary of Defence: Meghan Quinn PSM, the current Secretary of the Department of Industry, Science, and Resources. Coming from DISR is notable to me, given the industrial dimensions of "National Defence" in NDS26. www.pm.gov.au/media/appoin...

pm.gov.au

Appointment of new Secretary of the Department of Defence

I am pleased to announce I intend to recommend to the Governor-General that she appoint Ms Meghan Quinn PSM as Secretary of the Department of Defence.This is a historic appointment with Ms Quinn becom...

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 27/04/2026

In a small foray into inter-disciplinary co-publication, I have a piece out today with @anzsil.org on the Australia-Indonesia Treaty on Common Security ("the Jakarta Treaty") alongside my @nscanu.bsky.social friend and colleague @irelandpiper.bsky.social

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 25/04/2026

Did our first touristy thing in Jakarta today (only took us four months) and got occasionally bailed up by school kids for photos / vox pops with the bule including a grilling on what culture means to Aussies for some high schoolers' sociology class!

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 18/04/2026

"The Fat Controller" is a dangerous phrase for toddlers to pronounce if they're not really hitting their T's as my charming progeny may or may not be doing 🫢

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 17/04/2026

I'm taking the weekend to properly re-read & reflect on the new 2026 National Defence Strategy, but @aspi-org.bsky.social Mike's comments 👇 are the only acknowledgment I've seen of the broader politico-economic circumstances that these decisions have occurred within. www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7eZ...

youtube.com

Australia unveils historic defence spending boost | 7NEWS

YouTube video by 7NEWS Australia

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 14/04/2026

I'm grateful for the opportunity to contribute to two stories from SBS News yesterday on Australia's next steps in manufacturing & exporting long-range guided munitions, as well as some brief comments on the Defence leadership announcements. youtube.com/watch?v=P3IywHlk2z8&themeRefresh=1

youtube.com

Australia announces first female army chief

YouTube video by SBS News

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 13/04/2026

Congratulations to all the new appointees as CDF, CN, and CA - VADM Mark Hammond, RADM Matt Buckley, and LTGEN Susan Coyle. There's a clear maritime flavour, with a second successive Navy CDF, as well as strong continuity from the Joint world into the services given CA's time as CJC.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 31/03/2026

Look, I know, dealing with the big topics here, but as much as I love marmalade...kaya is this close to pipping it as my top breakfast toast spread 🤏

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 26/03/2026

"What looks to be the worst oil crisis in history, accelerating the rise of the far right, presaging a(nother) global recession and mass food shortages in the global south, you say?"

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 19/03/2026

Great news for Pacific rugby and Australia's ongoing role in the region. Wildly disproportionate funding going to one sporting code is not the way to go, so I'm glad to see the government listening to Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga and acting accordingly. www.smh.com.au/sport/rugby-...

smh.com.au

Pacific leaders lobby Australia for rugby cash splash after NRL deal

The $150 million sports diplomacy deal is being sought by Fiji, Tonga and Samoa as the Albanese government bankrolls rugby league in the region to counter China.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 17/03/2026

Today marked the third Australia-New Zealand Foreign and Defence Ministerial Consultations (ANZMIN 2+2) alongside separate ForMin and DefMin Meetings as the allies celebrate the 75th anniversary of the ANZUS Treaty. A few highlights to follow in this thread 🧵👇

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 16/03/2026

Recommended listening: this discussion between @ruthgamble.bsky.social @nickbisley.bsky.social @danielflitton.bsky.social for La Trobe Asia to launch Nick's new book "Asian Crucible: Globalization, Geopolitics and the Contest for the Future". open.spotify.com/episode/5xdi...

open.spotify.com

Book Launch: Asian Crucible: Globalization, Geopolitics and the Contest for the Future

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 16/03/2026

I've been reflecting a lot over the last week on Australia's decision to contribute forces to defending UAE and other Gulf states from Iran's drone and ballistic missile attacks and the assertion that Australia is therefore 'at war' and a 'party to the conflict'.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 28/02/2026

I'm praying for friends in my old homes of Jordan and Kuwait, for all people across the Middle East, and longing for the day when the words of Psalm 46 will be fulfilled. "He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire."

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 26/01/2026

On this topic, and for similar concerns articulated at greater length and in more comprehensive and compelling terms, I would also strongly recommend @limdarrenj.bsky.social most recent episode of "Australia in the World", especially pt.2 from 9.00-16.30. www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-wr...

podbean.com

Australia in the World | Darren Lim

A discussion of the most important news and issues in international affairs through a uniquely Australian lens. Hosted by Darren Lim, in memory of Allan Gyngell.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 25/01/2026

Greg Moriarty is a very sensible appointment as Australia's next Ambassador to the US. Indeed, of the options touted, the clear standout. Long-term Sec. of Defence Dept, fmr. Ambassador, and best placed to build on existing ties to senior USG officials. www.smh.com.au/politics/fed...

smh.com.au

Defence secretary, former Turnbull aide to become next Australian ambassador to US

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described Greg Moriarty as an “outstanding Australian public servant” in announcing he would take the prestigious posting.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 22/01/2026

For more perspectives on Mark Carney's rupture of the international order speech, I recommend: @seva.bsky.social hegemon.substack.com/p/the-strong... @georgeeaton.bsky.social @newstatesman1913.bsky.social morningcall.substack.com/p/morning-ca... @economist.com www.economist.com/briefing/202...

hegemon.substack.com

The Strong Will Suffer What They Must

Vaclav's Grocer and American Hubris

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 22/01/2026

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's speech at the World Economic Forum on Tuesday has been described by many prominent analysts and commentators as one of the most consequential geopolitical speeches in recent decades, but I confess that it left me feeling somewhat underwhelmed.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 13/01/2026

Phase 1 of the books have arrived, and interim desk is set up. Starting to feel more settled into Jakarta. 🇦🇺🇮🇩

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 07/01/2026

I say it every season, but Avery @trufelman.bsky.social's Articles of Interest is an exemplary podcast and I cannot recommend it enough. This season was "Gear": all about the interplay between the military, fashion, and the outdoor industry.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 06/01/2026

A lovely penultimate afternoon in Sydney at Greenwich Baths, but even more importantly given my birding proclivities, we were graced by an osprey gliding over the harbour bays - my first ever sighting in the wild 🤩

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 30/12/2025

Teach them young, the ways of Age of Empires 2. "Mandaten...Fisk...Gaderer."

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 22/12/2025

Sage advice from @johncoyne14.bsky.social @aspi-org.bsky.social in the SMH: "trad[ing] precision for speed...raises uncomfortable questions about why rapid regulatory changes are now being pushed through with limited analysis when existing laws appear adequate but imperfectly applied..."

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 19/12/2025

I have no expectation that these words will ultimately change anything, but I feel compelled to express my deep disquiet and worry about the way in which the political-media narratives are developing following the Bondi antisemitic terror attack. davidmandrews.com/2025/12/19/b...

davidmandrews.com

Bipartisanship, social cohesion, and the aftermath of the Bondi terror attacks

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 16/12/2025

The final stage of packing up the house ahead of the move to Indonesia: getting my Warhammer minis ready to travel. Stay strong, brothers - for the Lion! 🫣🤞

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 15/12/2025

Yesterday's attack in Bondi was, unambiguously, an abhorrent, evil, antisemitic terrorist attack and I grieve for the lives taken by the two gunmen, those who were injured, for all who have lost family and friends, and been impacted by this crime.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 08/12/2025

In what may be my last in-person engagement on staff @nscanu.bsky.social, it feels fitting that it's for our 15th anniversary celebrations: joining @rorymedcalf.bsky.social, current & former colleagues; students; exec ed alums to reflect on all that's been built in that time & looking ahead to 2040.

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 20/11/2025

Always a delight to be back on Monocle Radio, this time with Vincent McAviney to discuss the new Australia-Indonesia security treaty, the prospects of an Indo-Pacific NATO, and Australian defence spending. My segment starts at 32:00

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David M. Andrews @davidmandrews.bsky.social · 18/11/2025

For those who are interested in such things, does anyone have recommendations for political analysis podcasts focused on Australia? There are lots produced by newspapers and journalists as part of their multimedia spread, but I mean something more like The Rest is Politics.

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