Naval Attache to the United States
Royal Australian Navy
Commodore David Frost is a Naval Aviator with 35 years of service spanning tactical, operational and strategic arenas.
David served as a Seaman Officer in Patrol Boats, Destroyer Escorts and Frigates and as an Aviator in numerous Squadrons, primarily in Seahawk Helicopters with flight commander tours in HMAS Darwin and Melbourne. Two operational deployments to the Middle East culminated with award of a Commander Australian Theatre Commendation for Operation Falconer in the 2003 Iraq War. Subsequent postings included a Masters in Aerosystems in the UK, lead Seahawk flight test specialist at the RAN Flight Trials Unit, and Command and Staff Course.
Commander Frost was appointed as the Officer in Charge of Naval Aviation Flight Test and in 2013 he assumed duties as Commanding Officer of 725 Squadron in Jacksonville Florida USA, introducing the MH-60R Maritime Combat Helicopter into service. On completion, David posted to Canberra as Deputy Director Maritime Helicopters within Navy Strategic Command.
On Promotion in 2018, Captain Frost was appointed the Director RAN Test and Evaluation and in 2019 he also assumed the role as Commander Australian Maritime Warfare Centre. This was followed by selection as the inaugural Director of the Maritime Warfare Centre, driving generational change in maritime warfare development.
On promotion in Dec 2021, Commodore Frost assumed Command of the Fleet Air Arm and in Dec 2023 commenced duties at the Australian Embassy in Washington DC as the Naval Attaché to the United States of America.
David lives in Washington DC with his wife Suzanne and has two adult daughters who live on the South coast of New South Wales. He enjoys rugby, tennis, cooking and travelling and is rapidly building his knowledge of American sports.
Synchronizing Five Eyes Integrated Deterrence in the Indo-Pacific
Thursday, February 12, 2026
9:45 AM - 10:45 AM PT