Mick Ryan is a retired major general in the Australian Army. A graduate of the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and the U.S. Marine Corps University Command and Staff College and School of Advanced Warfighting, he is a passionate advocate of professional education and lifelong learning. He has commanded at platoon, squadron, regiment, task force, and brigade level. In January 2018, he assumed command of the Australian Defence College in Canberra, Australia. In 2021 he was an adjunct scholar at the Modern War Institute. Mick was made a member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his leadership of Australia’s first reconstruction task force in Afghanistan. He completed his 35-year career with the Australian Army and transitioned to the Army Reserve as a major general on February 27, 2022. His book, War Transformed, was published on February 15, 2022, by U.S. Naval Institute Books.
 

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A New Defense Review for Australia

This commentary explains main takeaways of Australia's new Defense Strategic Review and key challenges ahead for the review's implementation.

Commentary by Mick Ryan — April 27, 2023

Book Event: White Sun War: The Campaign for Taiwan

The CSIS Australia Chair cordially invites you to "Book Event: Spies and Lies: White Sun War: The Campaign for Taiwan."

Event by Charles Edel , Eliot A. Cohen , Emily Harding , and Mick Ryan — March 30, 2023

AUKUS Submarine Agreement: Historic but Not Yet Smooth Sailing

This week, the United States, Britain, and Australia announced the path forward for AUKUS, the trilateral defense partnership between the three nations. This commentary explores the details of the arrangement and the challenges in implementing AUKUS Pillar 1.

Commentary by Mick Ryan — March 17, 2023

The Clock Is Ticking: The Australian Defense Review and Time

The new Albanese government recently announced a defense review of Australian defense spending and the current state of its defense force and posture. This commentary explores seven themes that might shape the conduct and the outcomes of the review.

Commentary by Mick Ryan — September 6, 2022

The Task Ahead for Rapid Capability Enhancement in Australian Defense

This week, the Australian government announced a review of its defense strategy, which has the potential to significantly enhance its deterrence capability and military lethality against the challenges presented by China. But it will require action on several important issues.

Commentary by Mick Ryan — August 4, 2022