Brig. Hugh Meggitt has taken over as head of the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator for the Australian Defence Force.
Meggitt brings a wide range of military experience, including capability delivery and industry engagement. He held several military leadership roles at ADF, including director general of special operations modernization at Headquarters Joint Operations Command.
The military official will succeed Emily Hilder, who played a vital role in establishing the ASCA. Under her leadership, the accelerator supported the Albanese government in identifying areas to spark innovation, including hypersonics, information warfare and quantum technology.
ASCA was established to accelerate the delivery of innovative technologies to warfighters. The program allows local universities and businesses to participate in ensuring the Australian Defence Force has the necessary resources to fight on the modern battlefield. It enabled the Albanese government to invest in domestic defense manufacturing capabilities, generating new jobs for Australians.
“Since its establishment ASCA has worked with Australian industry and our international partners to identify [needed] capabilities … This next phase of ASCA’s delivery will ensure Australia can continue to invest in and deliver advanced capabilities that will help keep our nation safe,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles.
Apart from getting a new leader, the ASCA is also transitioning under the umbrella of the Vice Chief of the Defence Force Group. The transition will secure investments for developing innovative defense technologies.