From 2020Partners 2025 – KB On The Go | Neha Idnani, James Tennant, and Simon Hodgkinson (Part 1)

The 2020 Partners Dialogue sits at the edge of possibility, where security meets technological ambition. In this special bonus episode, KB explores how nations can move beyond simply consuming innovation to actively co-creating strategic dominance. Anchored by AUKUS and empowered by cross-sector collaboration, this conversation features insights from industry leaders Neha Idnani (Regional Vice President – APAC, Eutelsat OneWeb), James Tennant (Partner – Head of JAPAC, BOKA Capital), and Simon Hodgkinson (Strategic Advisor at Semperis).

Neha delves into the significance of operating one of only two global LEO satellite constellations, emphasizing how satellite networks power resilient connectivity, complement terrestrial infrastructure, and enable sovereign national capabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions. James offers a global investment perspective, highlighting how Australia and other key regions are rapidly adapting to strategic defense imperatives, the challenge of nurturing deep-tech startups, and the necessity of scaling defense technology within complex regulatory frameworks. Simon rounds out the discussion with expert insights on cybersecurity, examining the impact of economic uncertainty, increased insider risk during major corporate events and layoffs, and the criticality of robust cyber operations—even as organizations strive to balance resource constraints and work-life demands.

Neha Idnani, Regional Vice President – APAC, Eutelsat OneWeb

Neha Idnani is an accomplished leader in the Technology, Media, and Telecom (TMT) sector, currently serving as the Regional Vice President for APAC at Eutelsat OneWeb. With over 18 years of experience across the telecom, space, and infrastructure industries, she leads the Asia Pacific and ANZ business for Eutelsat Group, the world’s first multi-orbit satellite connectivity provider. Prior to her current role, she spent over a decade with Bharti Enterprises and Bharti Airtel, notably serving as Vice President and Chief of Staff to the Chairman’s Office. In that capacity, she managed multi-billion dollar fundraising transactions and drove significant global expansion initiatives.

Beyond her corporate leadership, Neha is deeply involved in industry governance and the arts. She serves as a Board Director for OneWeb Communications India, is a Founding Member of the Indian Space Association (ISpA), and acts as a Board Trustee for Improbable, a UK-based non-profit. Academically, she holds an MBA from NMIMS, Mumbai, and a Bachelor’s in Commerce (Honours) from Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), Delhi University. Throughout her career, she has remained a passionate advocate for driving the future of global connectivity through innovation and strategic collaboration.

James Tennant, Partner – Head of JAPAC, BOKA Capital

James Tennant is a Fellow with ASPI’s Cyber, Technology and Security Program and a Partner at BOKA Capital, a leading AUKUS Investment House in London, Sydney and New York.

His key role at BOKA is complemented by his service as an Officer in the Australian Army, where he specialises in Capability Development. He is also a Senior Partner at Gilmour Space Technologies, an Australian-based rocket company innovating in the field of low-cost small satellite launch vehicles.

James is a seasoned investor and corporate leader with deep interests and investments in diverse fields such as Quantum, Artificial Intelligence, Space, CyberSec, Machine Learning, Internet of Things, Drones, Enterprise Infrastructure, and Autonomous Vehicles. His professional journey, spanning across different continents and industries, uniquely positions him at the intersection of finance, defence, and technology including artificial intelligence.

James holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a specialisation in International Business from the University of Sydney, is a Graduate of Ap...