Interviews

Defence iQ had the privilege of interviewing active duty Mig 29 Pilot “Juice” and spokesperson Colonel Yuriy Ignat of the Ukrainian Air Force.

Using questions from Chairman General (Retd.) Gorenc, Defence iQ gains rare insight into one of the most complex aerial wars in Europe since the Second World War. This interview touches on the challenges and lessons learnt by the Ukrainian Air Force, as well as their material need to ensure air superiority.

In Defence iQ's exclusive pre-event interview for the 25th annual International Fighter Conference, renowned airpower expert Professor Justin Bronk shares his views on the challenges facing combat air forces. Bronk covers a wide range of topics, including the shifting nature of survivability and weapons stockpiles, as well as the complexities of manned-unmanned teaming and future interoperability. Bronk offers a measured and thought-provoking look at how Western air forces must adapt. This interview sets the stage for deeper discussions at IFC 2025 in Rome, where global military and industry leaders will gather to shape the future of air combat strategy and capability.

In our latest exclusive interview ahead of the International Fighter Conference, Colonel Timothy Helfrich and Lieutenant Colonel John Cummings of the U.S. Air Force share their insights on the integration of Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) within the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) Family of Systems. They discuss how open architectures, experimental operations, and evolving training models are shaping the future of human–machine teaming and redefining combat air power. Read it now!

In preparation for the International Fighter Conference 2024, we have had the pleasure of interviewing Major General David G. “Baja” Shoemaker, the Director of Operations at Air Combat Command (ACC). This quick sortie interview gives insight into the daily functions, challenges, needs and wants of the Air Combat Command.

It is an excellent piece to prepare yourself for the Major General’s presentation at IFC 2024.

When discussing Artificial Intelligence (AI), it is essential to think about it holistically, not only in terms of capabilities but also in terms of what AI really means for defence. 

Defence iQ is delighted to share with you an exclusive interview with Colonel Tucker “Cinco” Hamilton, Director, DAF-MIT AI Accelerator, U.S. Department of the Air Force, sharing thoughtful insights about a regularly misunderstood topic.

AI sets itself to revolutionise the defence domain, from capabilities to industry. Colonel Tucker “Cinco” Hamilton explains why AI and machine learning have become a focal point for defence. He points out the potential and limitations of AI in the defence domain and the nuances of applying it.

SEAD/DEAD has come to the forefront of conversation as RUSI fighter expert Justin Bronk shares his views on this urgent capability gap. This paper is a clarion call for Western forces to recognise the importance of securing the air against ground defence systems.