The Cove Podcast

‘History offers us examples of when deterrence has failed but there is still a requirement to deny’. In this week’s episode, we delve into Australia's National Defence Strategy and explore how the concept of Deterrence through Denial has been employed in history. Joined by our regular co-host LTCOL Steve Young, we examine the strategic significance of the Forward Observation Line during World War II, with a focus on three airfields: Laha in Ambon, Kupang in Timor, and Rabaul in New Guinea. We focus on Gull Force, Sparrow Force, and Lark Force, three Australian military units that faced the Japanese advance in the Pacific—one of the most audacious military advances in human history. These forces were deployed to the island chain to Australia’s north during a time when the nation was not only under threat in the Pacific but also deeply involved in other theatres of war, from Europe to North Africa and the Middle East. LTCOL Steve Young explains how the Forward Observation Line was intended to act as Australia’s deterrence against the Japanese thrust into the Pacific, and how this strategy was ultimately shaped by the challenges of operating in remote, hostile environments against a much larger enemy. Exercise Shaggy Ridge—a gruelling food and sleep deprivation exercise undertaken by each staff cadet at the Royal Military College – Duntroon—was originally known as Exercise Timor. Exercise Timor was designed to simulate the hardships faced by Sparrow Force as they withdrew under intense pressure from Japanese forces during the campaign in Timor. We set the preconditions to tell this story in detail in a later episode. ________________________________________ Make sure to listen and subscribe to make sure that you do not miss out on any of The Cove Podcast. Leading source: Evans, D., 2010. The Ambon Forward Observation Line Strategy 1941-1942 A Lesson in Military Incompetence (Doctoral dissertation, Murdoch University).

Serving in Special Operations Command (SOCOMD) is an aspiration for many and attainable for some. It is a popular choice for ADF members seeking to take their career to the next level and civilians wanting more out of life than a trade or corporate job can offer.  Recruiting is underway to identify the next generation of Special Forces Operators, Engineers, Signallers, Medics and Enablers. Depending on the role, some candidates participate in the Special Forces Selection Course (SFSC) – one of the longest and most gruelling selection courses in the world. We’ve partnered with the ADF School of Special Operations to produce a series of episodes to give you insights straight from the source. If you’re interested in joining SOCOMD’s units - 1st Commando Regiment, Special Air Service Regiment, 2nd Commando Regiment, Special Operations Engineer Regiment or Special Operations Logistics Squadron then this is the series for you. This episode features two Physical Training Instructors (PTIs) from Human Performance Wing – Kampo & Ben. They are involved in multiple phases of Special Forces recruitment, including pre-Selection physical training, Selection itself and the post-Selection Reinforcement Training Cycle. Drawing on their experience over the years, we discuss becoming physically optimised and ready for Selection and the 30-week physical training program. Kampo & Ben also provide some helpful tips to assist with your own training and preparation. SOCOMD is looking for high calibre individuals who ready to play a part in cutting-edge warfare now, and into the future. Could it be you? Find out More: Special Forces Operator - ADF Careers

Serving in Special Operations Command (SOCOMD) is an aspiration for many and attainable for some. It is a popular choice for ADF members seeking to take their career to the next level and civilians wanting more out of life than a trade or corporate job can offer. Recruiting is underway to identify the next generation of Special Forces Operators, Engineers, Signallers, Medics and Enablers. Depending on the role, some candidates participate in the Special Forces Selection Course (SFSC) – one of the longest and most gruelling selection courses in the world. We’ve partnered with the ADF School of Special Operations to produce a series of episodes to give you insights straight from the source. If you’re interested in joining SOCOMD’s units - 1st Commando Regiment, Special Air Service Regiment, 2nd Commando Regiment, Special Operations Engineer Regiment or Special Operations Logistics Squadron this is the series for you. This episode features MAJ J, the OC of Selection Wing – responsible for the attraction, screening and selection of the workforce across the Command. We discuss the process to join, roles available, help and resources available, and delve into how candidates are assessed during Selection. SOCOMD is looking for high calibre individuals who ready to play a part in cutting-edge warfare now, and into the future. Could it be you? Find out More: Special Forces Operator - ADF Careers

In this thought-provoking episode of The Cove Podcast, we sit down with Deputy Chief of Army, MAJGEN Chris Smith, to discuss what war would look like and the vital role of human decision-making in military operations. MAJGEN Chris Smith challenges the notion that technology and machine learning will replace the instincts and experiences of commanders. Drawing on historical examples like the Battle of Crete during WWII, he argues that while information is crucial, it is action—and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure—that ultimately wins battles. The human element, particularly the experience of the commander, remains central to success on the battlefield. MAJGEN Chris Smith also reflects on the importance of a broad range of experiences in developing effective military leaders, comparing the honing of war-fighting skills to perfecting a golf swing. Whether through direct experience or by studying the decisions of past commanders, the development of critical thinking and decision-making abilities is essential. Where experience cannot be built in combat operations, many great commanders have built experience vicariously through reading about how commanders make decisions when the stakes were high. We delve into the Decision Making and Planning Process, exploring how this framework helps commanders navigate complex and high-stakes situations. The Decision Making and Planning Process returns art and judgement back to the planning team and brings the commander to the forefront of the decision making process. Join us for an insightful conversation about leadership, decision-making, and the future of warfare with one of the Australian Army's most senior and involved leaders.