AUKUS Visa

From London to Australia: Advancing AUKUS Collaboration ???????????? This week at Imperial College London, we’ve been deep in discussions on AUKUS Pillar Two—exploring quantum technologies, secure information sharing, and advanced cybersecurity. A big thank you to AUKUS Forum Cybersecurity Taskforce Chair, Jacqui Nelson for sharing her expertise as we strengthen partnerships across the three nations. Now, it's time to continue the conversation in Australia. Join us at the National Press Club in Canberra for: ??? The Risk Within: Managing Insider Threat ?? Canberra – Monday, March 17 – Register here https://lnkd.in/gXtBBNDc And as part of our National Workshop Series, get involved in discussions on #additive manufacturing, cyber advancements, and defense industry collaboration: ?? Sydney – Thursday, March 20 – UTS Tech Lab – Register here https://lnkd.in/g-4fsyBK ?? Albury/Wodonga – Monday, March 24 – Register here https://lnkd.in/grpGVsre From London to Australia—and back to the United States next for a packed agenda on advanced cyber capabilities. Be part of the conversation shaping the future of AUKUS. Join us! In collaboration with Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), FBI Cyber Division, BlueForge Alliance, Center for American Industrial Strength, AUKUS Visa

Uniting AUKUS ???????????? Our CEO, Michael Sharpe has been hosting workshops and leading delegations across Australia, the United States and here in the United Kingdom. The University of Huddersfield in England is collaborating with Australian based leaders from Dapatech Systems. See https://dapatech.com/#home The Advanced Machinery & Productivity Initiative - creating the new machines, technology and people needed to manufacture tomorrow’s products - is an industry led initiative that will stimulate and support rapid growth of the UK’s machinery manufacturing sector, designed to support a coherent supply chain from research through to implementation. #Additive fabrication is a particular focus of our Make Submarines initiative. This week in London we are talking artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and secure information sharing. We are joined by our AUKUS Cybersecurity Taskforce Chair, Jacqui Nelson and our Operations Director, Catherine Krimmer. Get involved with AUKUS projects - Contact our Global Partnerships Manager, Matthew Netherwood - [email protected] In collaboration with BlueForge Alliance, Deloitte, IBM, Aon, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, Center for American Industrial Strength, Great British Industry, British Nuclear Dialogue, DekkoSecure, AUKUS Visa

Great Britain - Walking the Factory Floors – Connecting AUKUS Industry with Cutting-Edge Innovation ???????????? Our CEO, Michael Sharpe continues to walk the factory floors across England and Scotland, strengthening industry connections and exploring the next generation of advanced manufacturing technologies. Here we visited iCOMAT, a spin-out from the University of Bristol, delivering beyond state-of-the-art lightweighting solutions through their Rapid Tow Shearing (RTS) process. This revolutionary approach is enabling lighter, stronger, and more sustainable vehicles across aerospace, automotive, and space applications. Since 2019, iCOMAT has made remarkable progress—growing to 22 employees and securing direct contracts with major OEMs. Based in the South West of England, a global hub for composite technology, the company is positioned at the heart of Europe’s composite powerhouse, surrounded by world-leading institutes and industry giants. As the AUKUS Forum expands across Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, we are forging stronger industry connections, ensuring that cutting-edge companies like iCOMAT are part of the broader AUKUS industrial network. ?? Get in touch to explore industry partnerships, technology showcases, and collaboration opportunities across the AUKUS nations. ?? A world of opportunities awaits. Contact our Global Partnerships Manager, Matthew Netherwood - [email protected] BlueForge Alliance, Deloitte, IBM, Aon, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, Center for American Industrial Strength, Great British Industry Make Submarines, AUKUS Visa

Training the Future: Building Australia’s Workforce for AUKUS Submarines ???????? The Make Submarines initiative is more than building submarines—it’s about building the workforce that will power Australia’s defense industry for generations. As we expand our capabilities under AUKUS, the need for skilled engineers, technicians, and advanced manufacturers has never been greater. That’s why Make Submarines, in collaboration with the AUKUS Forum, is working alongside Veritas Asia Pacific Pty Ltd and the University of Technology Sydney to help deliver cutting-edge training programs designed to equip Australian industry with the skills needed for nuclear-powered submarine production and more. ?? Systems Engineering & Asset Management – Ensuring long-term operational excellence. ?? Lean Manufacturing & Six Sigma – Driving efficiency and productivity in defense manufacturing. ?? Cybersecurity & Information Protection – Strengthening resilience in critical technologies. By investing in workforce development, we are helping to ensure that Australian businesses, both large and small, have the capability to support AUKUS supply chains and contribute to sovereign manufacturing. ?? Want to be part of Australia’s future defence industry? Contact us to learn more about training and workforce opportunities. Together, we are making submarines and shaping the future. See https://lnkd.in/ggxQA3UW BlueForge Alliance, Deloitte, IBM, Aon, Center for American Industrial Strength, Great British Industry, Charles Plenge, AUKUS Visa, Michael Sharpe ????????????

On the Ground in Scotland – AUKUS Industry in Action ???????????? Today in Scotland, next week in Oxford and London—the AUKUS Forum’s industry engagement is expanding across the three nations. With our growing team on the ground in Australia, the U.S., and the U.K., we’re strengthening industrial collaboration and unlocking new opportunities for manufacturers, researchers, and defense leaders. ?? Walking the factory floors from Bristol to South Yorkshire, Barrow-in-Furness to Glasgow and Edinburgh, connecting with industry partners driving AUKUS-related innovation. ?? In London next week, I’ll be joined by Jacqui Nelson, Chair of the AUKUS Forum’s Advanced Cybersecurity Taskforce, and our Operations Director, Catherine Krimmer to share our latest insights. ?? Following the successful launch of the first ten AUKUS Industry Zones across the U.S., we continue to expand industry engagement, build supply chains, and develop workforce capabilities across the three nations. The AUKUS partnership is more than just submarines—it’s about advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and driving economic and technological growth. Want to be part of the conversation? Let’s connect. ?? See https://lnkd.in/g7dcJUdx In collaboration with BlueForge Alliance, Deloitte, IBM, Aon, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, Center for American Industrial Strength, DekkoSecure, British Nuclear Dialogue, AUKUS Guardians, Great British Industry, AUKUS Visa

AUKUS: Powering Partnerships, Shaping the Future Todays confirmation hearing for Marco Rubio as Secretary of State highlighted the unwavering commitment of the incoming U.S. administration to the AUKUS partnership. Senator Rubio’s remarks signal strong bipartisan support for this trilateral agreement between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, emphasizing its potential to reshape strategic and geopolitical balance in the Pacific region and beyond. Calling AUKUS “a blueprint for consortium-like partnerships,” Rubio underscored its value in tackling global challenges collaboratively. From defense to critical minerals and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing, AUKUS is poised to advance shared objectives by leveraging the strengths of allied nations. However, Rubio’s comments also brought attention to the need for a whole-of-government approach to remove barriers and accelerate progress. This includes streamlining technology transfers to trusted allies and mobilizing efforts across multiple U.S. government agencies, including Defense, Energy, and Commerce. His firm stance on countering adversarial activities—especially from China—reminds us of the urgency to bolster alliances. As Rubio pointed out, strategic partnerships like AUKUS are critical to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific and safeguarding the liberal global order. For those of us committed to the AUKUS vision, this is a pivotal moment. The focus on revitalizing this agreement reflects its potential to drive innovation, enhance defense capabilities, and strengthen economic ties across the alliance. At the AUKUS Forum, we continue to champion all we can achieve together, ensuring industries, academia, and governments work together to unlock the full potential. As Senator Rubio aptly said, "accelerating partnerships with strong allies is the point." See https://lnkd.in/g5mvcaF6

?? Join Us in Connecticut with the AUKUS Forum Delegations in 2025! ?? We’re excited to connect Australian and UK industry across the United States as we strengthen ties and create new opportunities. Connecticut is leading the way in advanced manufacturing and innovation, and we’re thrilled to be a part of it. ?? Save the Dates: February 17 March 17 April 28 Join our delegations as we: ? Walk factory floors and see cutting-edge manufacturing in action. ? Meet local research and industry leaders driving innovation. ? Explore new supply chain opportunities and pathways for growth. ?? Don’t miss the "Fastest Three Minutes in Manufacturing" each Friday with Paul S. Lavoie, Chief Manufacturing Officer for the State of Connecticut. Discover what makes Connecticut a hub for innovation and learn about all the "Cool Things" made here in the latest edition of AUKUS Forum News - https://lnkd.in/gzMMZmPu ?? Do you have new technologies to share with U.S. industry? ?? Ready to expand your business into the United States? ?? Looking to get involved with local supply chains? Contact our Global Partnerships Manager, Matthew Netherwood, and be part of this exciting journey as we walk the factory floors and build a brighter future together. [email protected]

At the AUKUS Forum, we’re witnessing the incredible impact of collaboration as our CEO, Michael Sharpe, crisscrosses the United States. From Texas to Maryland, Connecticut to Virginia, Michael is walking factory floors, meeting research and industry leaders, and creating opportunities in #additive manufacturing, cybersecurity, AI, welding technologies, and supply chain collaboration. ?? Arkansas – January 14 The countdown is underway as Michael prepares to meet with Arkansas’s innovators and trailblazers in electronics, heavy engineering, and advanced manufacturing. This visit is a vital step in building bridges between industry and research to unleash the power of AUKUS and boost capabilities. ?? Be Part of AUKUS Connect The AUKUS Forum is dedicated to driving innovation that fuels growth across Australia, the UK, and the US, while strengthening industries and building new technologies. ??Contact our Global Partnerships Manager, Matthew Netherwood - [email protected] See the latest edition of AUKUS Forum News https://lnkd.in/g9Q5n8Ga From steel making, to quantum technologies, AUKUS is the largest industrial endeavor in Australia’s history - see https://lnkd.in/g2CAX_bE

The AUKUS Forum Youth Advisory Council is proud to champion the role of #additive manufacturing (3D printing) as a game-changing technology for our future. We see additive manufacturing as more than a tool—it’s an opportunity to inspire innovation, create new careers, and strengthen our nations' security and economic resilience. ?? Why Additive Manufacturing Matters to Us: Sustainability: By reducing waste and optimizing production, 3D printing aligns sustainable practices. Future-Proof Careers: Additive manufacturing is opening up cutting-edge STEM opportunities in engineering, robotics, and advanced manufacturing—fields that will define the future of work. Global Collaboration: The AUKUS partnership allows young professionals across three nations to learn, innovate, and collaborate on technologies that protect our shared values and interests. ?? Our Vision: The Youth Advisory Council is focused on engaging with industry, academia, and governments across the alliance. ?? How You Can Get Involved: Mentors and Leaders: Share your knowledge and experiences to help guide the next generation of innovators. Innovators: Explore opportunities in STEM fields and contribute your ideas. Organizations: Partner with the Youth Advisory Council to expand access to training, internships, and collaboration projects. ?? Join the Conversation: What excites you most about the potential of additive manufacturing? Let’s build a stronger, more innovative AUKUS alliance together! Contact our Global Partnerships Manager, Matthew Netherwood - [email protected] See the latest edition of AUKUS Forum News here https://lnkd.in/dA6EGY-7 Jade Plummer, Matthew Whitney, Zachary Pattinson, Lauren Collocott, Jonah Hayek; Deloitte, IBM, Whitney Jones

?? Spotlight on Arkansas ?? This month, the AUKUS Forum is proud to highlight Arkansas as a key player in the aerospace and defense industries. With groundbreaking investments, world-class infrastructure, and a skilled workforce, Arkansas is setting the standard for innovation and growth in these critical sectors. Here’s why Arkansas deserves the spotlight: ? $60M Expansion by Taber Extrusions in Russellville, introducing North America’s largest direct extrusion press and creating 70 new jobs. ? $63M RTX and Rafael Partnership in East Camden, producing advanced missile systems like the Tamir and SkyHunter? for defense needs. ? $100M Dassault Falcon Jet Investment in Little Rock, adding 800 new jobs to one of the largest global aviation facilities. ? Ebbing Air National Guard Base selected for a new pilot training center, bringing 900 military members and their families to Fort Smith and supporting F-16 and F-35 programs for allied nations. Arkansas demonstrates what’s possible with strategic vision, collaboration, and investment. The state’s 170+ aerospace and defense firms and strong talent pipeline, supported by its 40+ educational institutions, make it a natural fit for innovation in areas like manufacturing, cybersecurity, AI, and quantum technologies. The AUKUS Forum sees Arkansas as a shining example of how regional strength can advance global security and economic prosperity. We invite our partners across the AUKUS alliance to explore the incredible opportunities emerging from this dynamic region. ?? Let’s continue to collaborate and build a stronger future together. #AUKUS Michael Sharpe —————————————- The Special Office for AUKUS connects business across nations, with hubs in: Rogers, Arkansas: Aerospace and advanced manufacturing. Kennedy Space Center, Florida: Space manufacturing. Maryland Technology Center: Defense and innovation. Groton, Connecticut: Submarine sector expertise. See the latest edition of AUKUS Forum News here https://lnkd.in/gb4hd79B Get involved with our 2025 workshop series across the United Kingdom, Australia and the United States. Contact our Global Partnerships Manager Matthew Netherwood - [email protected] ———————- Walk the factory floors with us across the United States in January, February and March - see https://lnkd.in/g2CAX_bE Arkansas Aerospace & Defense Alliance; World Trade Center Arkansas; Arkansas Economic Development Commission; Arkansas District Export Council; University of Arkansas; Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas; BlueForge Alliance; America Makes; Chad Causey; Denise Thomas; Rob Ator; John Wilczynski; Rob Gorham; Kiley Wren; Roxanne Warren; Matt Prochaska; Matthew Roberts; Chad Johnson; Jacqueline Borsboom; Abraham Denmark; Matthew Sweeney; Scott Stewart; Matthew Steinhelfer; Lincoln Reifsteck; Matthew Kibble; Caterpillar Inc. Mundo-Tech; THE AKANA GROUP INC. Industrial Base Capital Partners; Center for American Industrial Strength