New boss takes the helm at Lockheed Martin Australia and NZ

Piselli emphasised Roberton’s wealth of leadership experience and strategic insight in confirming the transition, saying: “Steve’s decades of service in the Royal Australian Air Force and his deep understanding of defence capability requirements will ensure Lockheed Martin continues to deliver world-class solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers in Australia and New Zealand.”

He also expressed gratitude for outgoing chief executive Warren McDonald’s contributions, adding, “I also want to extend my gratitude to Macca for his exceptional leadership, which has seen Lockheed Martin achieve significant milestones across several key defence initiatives including AIR 6500-1, SouthPAN, and the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise.”

“I am honoured to lead Lockheed Martin’s efforts in Australia and New Zealand, regions that are pivotal to our global operations,” Roberton said.

Roberton is a retired senior commander of the RAAF. Accepted into the RAAF as a direct entry pilot trainee in 1989, he completed initial officer and flight training at RAAF Point Cook and RAAF Base Pearce, graduating from No. 153 Pilots Course in 1990 and completing F/A-18 conversion in 1993.

“My focus will be on collaborating closely with our customers, industry partners and stakeholders to deliver and sustain the advanced capabilities necessary to address the complex security challenges and strategic defence priorities of Australia and New Zealand,” Roberton said.

Roberton’s career included time as a Category A Fighter Pilot with over 3,000 total flight hours, primarily in F/A-18A, B, C, D, E, and F fighters. Roberton has extensive operational and leadership experience.