HSO Maj-Gen Ken Gillespie points to Afghanistan on a world map. Photo by Cpl Belinda Mepham, 1 JPAU(P)

By Capt Dan O’Mara
A NEW senior leader will oversee ADF operations at the strategic level, with Maj-Gen Ken Gillespie taking over the reins of Strategic Operations Division from AVM Alan Titheridge.

Formerly known as Strategic Command Division, the new name came into effect on September 2.

Before taking up his new appointment, Maj-Gen Gillespie was the first national commander for ADF forces deployed in support of the international coalition against terrorism.

He has held a wide range of regimental and staff appointments including 2IC/OPSO 2nd Australian contingent to UNTAG in Namibia, CO 3CER, SO Operations to CDF, Commander Australian Joint Intelligence Centre and COS TC-A.

Before his Op Slipper command, Maj-Gen Gillespie spent 10 months in East Timor as Commander SECWEST with UNTAET.

He said his past operational, command and planning experience would serve him well in his new appointment.

“I have been given wonderful opportunities by our Defence leadership over the last few years,” he said.

“I have been professionally challenged and have gained great insight into policy development and international relations through my exposure to two very different international military coalitions.

“These experiences, combined with my close association with our very talented service and civilian personnel, and their leaders, has given me a solid background for what lies ahead in my new appointment.

“It’s only early days yet but I am quite surprised at the volume of work handled so successfully by the small and committed Defence team in my division.”

AVM Titheridge said he had completed an interesting year as Head Strategic Command.

“I think that every Head Strategic Operations would leave this command saying they have had it far busier than their predecessors, but with events such as September 11 and the Tampa incident, my time has been both challenging and enjoyable,” he said.

“Looking back over the past twelve months I have no regrets.

“The one thing that has always amazed me is the dedication and teamwork of my wonderful staff in Strategic Operations and their strong work ethic.”

Strategic Operations Division (SOD) supports the CDF in his role as ADF commander by providing strategic level advice and planning for all ADF operations.

With a relatively small staffing for a joint headquarters, SOD personnel fill roles in a variety of areas such as maritime, land and air operations, joint planning and logistics, joint intelligence, Operation Safebase, UN liaison, communication and electronic warfare, public affairs, legal and administrative issues.

Continuous monitoring of ADF operations, keeping the CDF and Minister for Defence informed, as well as shaping and influencing the whole of government crisis management process are some of the many tasks of SOD.

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