Grant Burr co-founded Patron Defence, bringing extensive operational leadership experience from the Royal Australian Air Force and a deep understanding of air combat capability generation.
Grant’s operational background includes command of No. 77 Squadron, where he led the unit during combat operations and was responsible for the delivery of combat air power in dynamic and high-risk environments. His leadership in this role was recognised with the Distinguished Service Medal for performance in combat operations, reflecting his ability to lead large, complex teams under pressure.
Across his Air Force career, Grant has held a range of senior operational, staff and command appointments, including Chief of Staff at Air Combat Group Headquarters and Staff Officer roles focused on capability management and the introduction of the F‑35A into service. In these positions, he contributed to defining Air Combat Group battle-worthiness standards and aligning capability outcomes to Government and operational priorities.
His flying experience spans more than 3,000 hours across fast jet platforms, including instructional roles on both the F/A‑18 Hornet and F‑35A Joint Strike Fighter. He is a Category A Fighter Pilot and has extensive experience in aviation safety, risk management and the development of combat-ready aircrew.
Grant’s experience also includes international exchange, operational deployments and senior instructional appointments, providing him with a broad perspective on the integration of capability across coalition environments and the effective generation of combat capability.