Experienced Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) veteran and highly qualified systems engineer Glen Gallagher has been announced as Director Advanced Systems at Defence SA.

Starting with the agency on 9 September, Glen will bring to the role a wealth of experience across intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, electronic warfare, cyber and tactical systems operations.

Glen will be responsible for developing strategies to grow opportunities for South Australian industry to support projects related to AUKUS Pillar II and battlespace awareness. This will include a focus on workforce requirements and growth across these areas.

Chief Executive of Defence SA, Matt Opie welcomed Glen to the role, highlighting the importance of strengthening opportunities for advanced systems in the state.

“We are pleased to welcome Glen to the Defence SA team,” he said. “Glen’s extensive experience throughout his decorated career made him the ideal candidate for the job.”

“I am confident his experience and insight will add immense value and contribute to the development of South Australia’s defence industry sector.”

With more than 28 years of service to the Royal Australian Air Force, Glen has honed his skills across senior roles including Mission Commander aboard the AP-3C Orion and P-8A Poseidon respectively and Deputy Air Base Executive Officer, with advanced proficiencies in electronic warfare (EW), airborne intelligence surveillance, reconnaissance and tactical systems operations.

In 2019, Glen transferred to the RAAF Reserve and joined Boeing Defence Australia, holding roles including P-8A Training Operations and Cyber Manager, Program Safety Management Systems and most recently, Operations Manager.

Commenting on his appointment, Glen said he looks forward to connecting with industry and applying his knowledge and skills to help make the most of the opportunities ahead.

“I am honoured to join Defence SA and look forward to working on high-impact projects aligned to the state’s priorities,” he said.

“Strengthening Defence partnerships while prioritising security outcomes for the state will be crucial to the success of the role.”

Glen holds a Masters degree in engineering science – majoring in Aerospace Engineering and a Masters degree in systems engineering – majoring in Weapons and Ordnance.

He graduated from the United States Navy’s Fighter Weapons School as a qualified Weapons Tactics Instructor and is a former Naval Flight Officer Instructor for the Patrol and Reconnaissance Squadron Thirty (VP-30) at Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, Florida.

Glen will work closely with Ian Spencer, who recently commenced as Executive Director Defence and Industry at Defence SA.