In this episode of The Security Podcast, Kim Hughes reflects on his journey to becoming the UK’s most decorated bomb disposal expert. Renowned for his extraordinary bravery, which earned him the George Cross, Hughes successfully defused over 120 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Afghanistan. He shares how he developed his expertise, recounting the harrowing operations that defined his career, including the day he was awarded the George Cross. Hughes delves into the complex emotions tied to such life-and-death missions and the challenges soldiers face when shifting from life-threatening conditions to the mundane tasks of home life. Since leaving the army, Hughes has continued his work in global counter-IED efforts, focusing on training and consultancy in various regions, including Africa. He also sheds light on the evolving nature of modern battlefields, from the rise of drones in Ukraine to the monumental task of clearing the IEDs left behind by Russian forces after the war.