Travis Butson - SlashGear

Location

Salzburg, Austria

Expertise

Air combat, Weapons and technical intelligence, Military systems

Travis served for 14 years in the New Zealand Defence Force, in roles ranging from Infantry to intelligence and technical military systems.
As a technology writer, he enjoys covering topics that range from military systems and technology to cybersecurity and AI breakthroughs.
Outside of writing, Travis continues to work in the field of technical intelligence, both as an instructor and an analyst.

Experience

Travis's experience with military systems covers all aspects of the joint fires framework, from enlisted service as a direct fire support gunner, to an officer leading analysis and planning in air combat and targeting. Across his service and deployments, Travis routinely drove technical analysis efforts, identifying, exploiting and assessing the functions and developments of military capabilities across the globe. Travis departed military service in January 2026 before beginning to publish tech reviews and industry updates for SlashGear. Outside of his writing, he remains fastidiously committed to technical intelligence.

Education

Travis holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Otago, double majoring in international relations and communications.

SlashGear Editorial Policies

SlashGear's content hails from a group of experienced technology and automotive editors and a wide-ranging team of writers, engineers, enthusiasts, and experts across consumer tech and transportation. Our goal is to provide up-to-the-minute breaking news coverage as well as original and engaging opinion and editorial content that serves as the ultimate resource for those who want to stay up to date on the latest and greatest the industry has to offer.

Our editors, advisors, and fact-checkers conduct regular reviews to ensure the accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of our articles. Complete information on our editorial process available here.

Stories By Travis Butson

Technology By Travis Butson

Can A Cracked Mower Deck Be Welded?

A crack in the deck of your lawnmower isn't necessarily the kiss of death, but its resurrection depends on a few factors. Here's what to know.
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Aviation By Travis Butson

How The OV-10 Bronco Went From Troubled Concept To Vietnam War Legend

The OV-10 Bronco didn't have fancy swept wings or supersonic jet engines, but it still became an iconic sight in the skies during the Vietnam era.
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Cars By Travis Butson

What Does Vinegar Do To An Engine?

Vinegar shows up as a common ingredient in hack videos, but is using it on or around your engine a good idea? Here are some things to consider.
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Military By Travis Butson

America's Missile Ranges Are Doing A Lot More Than Testing Weapons

Military missile ranges across America are dangerous places for people, but endangered and threatened animal species often find refuge within them.
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Military By Travis Butson

Why Companies Making High-Tech Weapons Are Turning To 3D Printing

3D printing could very well revolutionize how the military manufactures munitions, but not in the way you might be thinking. Here's what the future may hold.
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Aviation By Travis Butson

What Is A 'Jellyfish' Drone Swarm, And Why Are They Considered So Dangerous?

Military drones continue to get more complex, and things can get very interesting when many of them work together in tandem, like an alleged Iranian swarm.
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Vehicles By Travis Butson

This WWII Tank Was Powered By Grafting Five Chrysler Engines Together

You've probably heard of a Sherman tank, but there were actually multiple Sherman models. One in particular had a very strange engine running it.
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Cars By Travis Butson

Factory Vs Aftermarket Tow Hitches: How Different Are They Really?

Depending on your towing needs, it might be worth getting a factory tow package, but many drivers are well-served by an aftermarket hitch. Which do you need?
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Cars By Travis Butson

Why Did U.S. Automakers Start Switching To Metric Bolts In The '70s?

While you can still find some Imperial units on American cars, the industry as a whole mostly swapped to metric in the 1970s. What happened?
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Vehicles By Travis Butson

5 Major Automotive Brands Used In The US Military

Auto manufacturers and the military have collaborated on multiple occasions. Here are some prominent examples of major car brands making military hardware.
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