We must understand how IS message turns troubled souls into terrorists

• ANALYSIS

The German term "amok laufer" or "someone who runs amok" describes a person who, following a long period of brooding, snaps and goes on a mass murder rampage.

Australia to start making military drones

Australia is to start making its own military drones, officials have revealed, and former defence chief Sir Angus Houston said he expects that the "vast majority" of war fighting will be done by unmanned machines within half a century.

Australians fought and died here - now the Taliban is back

Asked whether Australian troops might have to return, Army boss says that is a question for the Turnbull government.

Islamic State issues chilling new threats against iconic sites

The latest Islamic State magazine has issued a vicious and detailed call to "lone wolf" followers to stab, shoot, poison and run over Australians at iconic places such as Bondi Beach and the MCG.

Chatty soldiers create potential security risk

Senior soldiers are urging a review of the Army's social media policy after "prolific" personal use of Facebook and other platforms by military personnel on a recent major exercise created potential security risks.

China's runways will allow bomber planes and missiles to hit Australia

• EXCLUSIVE

Chinese bombers and missiles could threaten Australia from new artificial islands in the South China Sea, prompting calls for a missile defence shield.

Notorious Defence rape cases to go unsolved

A notorious group of rape cases at the Australian Defence Force Academy will remain unresolved after the government's defence abuse taskforce announced neither a Royal Commission nor an Australian Crime Commission probe will go ahead.

Australian forces to expand Islamic State strikes

Government sources claim the change does not affect the way Australia's so-called "rules of engagement" were structured to avoid civilian casualties.

Outgoing US ambassador says Americans should be forced to vote like Oz

Ambassador says Australians are "some of the most rational people on the planet" and the US could be stronger by adopting some Australian electoral practices.

Australian aid worker released after four-month Afghanistan ordeal

Australian aid worker Kerry Jane Wilson has been released unharmed after four months being held hostage in Afghanistan.