Defence SA has appointed Glen Gallagher as its Advanced Systems Director, effective September 9, 2024. Gallagher will develop strategies to grow opportunities for South Australian industry related to AUKUS Pillar II and battlespace awareness. This will include a focus on workforce requirements and growth across these areas.
The experienced RAAF veteran and qualified systems engineer brings to the role a wealth of experience across intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, electronic warfare, cyber and tactical systems operations.
“We are pleased to welcome Glen to the Defence SA team,” said Defence SA CEO Matt Opie. “I am confident his experience and insight will add immense value and contribute to the development of South Australia’s defence industry sector.”
Gallagher has held senior RAAF 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, 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.
He holds a Masters degree in engineering science, majoring in Aerospace Engineering, and a second Masters degree in systems engineering, majoring in Weapons and Ordnance.
Gallagher 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.
“I am honoured to join Defence SA and look forward to working on high-impact projects aligned to the state’s priorities,” Gallagher said. “Strengthening Defence partnerships while prioritising security outcomes for the state will be crucial to the success of the role.”
Gallagher will work closely with Ian Spencer, who recently became Defence SA’s Executive Director of Defence and Industry.
