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For decades, the U.S. government has tested weapons systems before deployment, but not the policies that govern them. That gap is starting to close through artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced modeling techniques. In this episode, Dr. Arun Seraphin sits down with Dr. David Metcalf and Dr. Doug Buettner to explore how AI, multi-agent systems, and simulation technologies are transforming how defense policy can be designed, tested, and implemented. What emerges is a new paradigm: policy that can be modeled and refined before it ever reaches the real world. The conversation explores how AI-powered multi-agent systems can simulate complex environments with multiple stakeholders, enabling policymakers to run thousands of “what if” scenarios in real time. As these systems scale, questions of bias, validation, and trust become central to whether artificial intelligence-driven insights can inform high-stakes decisions. Looking ahead, the challenge is no longer technical feasibility—it is whether institutions can adopt AI and multi-agent systems, build the right validation frameworks, and ensure that AI-driven policy decision-making remains accountable. NDIA ETI Brief -- “Using Data for Defense: Integrating Modeling & Simulation for Policymaking”: https://www.emergingtechnologiesinstitute.org/publications/brief-series/policy-and-modeling    ADD WEBINAR ON POLICY MODELING – YOUTUBE VIDEO ADD LINK to AIRC   SAVE THE DATE: 2026 NDIA Emerging Technologies for Defense Conference and Exhibition September 9-10, 2026, at the Walter E. Washington DC Convention Center: ndiatechexpo.org/ Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, early access to upcoming events, inside scoops, & more:    LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0    Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3    Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8    And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: ndiaeti.org  #EmergingTech #ArtificialIntelligence #PublicPolicy #DefenseInnovation

Over the past decade, microelectronics and semiconductors have become a cornerstone of U.S. national security and supply chain resilience, moving beyond a purely technical issue to a central focus of economic and defense policy in Washington.  In this episode, host Dr. Arun Seraphin sits down with Grant Meyer, chair of the National Defense Industrial Association Electronics Division, to discuss the evolving role of the electronics industrial base in supporting U.S. defense capabilities and securing critical supply chains.  The conversation explores how rising geopolitical competition and legislation such as the CHIPS and Science Act have accelerated federal attention on semiconductor manufacturing, microelectronics innovation, and resilient supply chains. Seraphin and Meyer also dive into the challenges of building a coherent national electronics strategy, including fragmented priorities across the industrial base and commercial technology sector, and the difficulty of aligning long-term defense acquisition timelines with fast-moving commercial cycles.  Meyer draws on his extensive experience in defense electronics to explain why microelectronics and semiconductors are foundational to modern military systems and national security infrastructure.  Check out Meyer’s NDIA division here: https://www.ndia.org/divisions/electronics  NDIA ETI Report – “Modernizing Defense Microelectronics: Challenges and Opportunities”: https://www.emergingtechnologiesinstitute.org/publications/research-papers/modernizing-defense-microelectronics  ETH Podcast on Report:  https://www.youtube.com/@EmergingTechETI/search?query=electronics  ETH Podcast CHIPS Act and Microelectronics - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36rGE0yjw1Y&t=5s  Tech 101 Webinar: Microelectronics - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6sxrq3PiwI&list=PL5oQnv75FK5bwT5tk6qgPa3FhLWm1vgAv&index=37&t=3066s&pp=iAQB  Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, early access to upcoming events, inside scoops, & more:     LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0   Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3   Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8     And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: ndiaeti.org  #ETI #EmergingTech #SupplyChains #Microelectronics #Semiconductors 

Microelectronics and semiconductor technologies are no longer commodities—they are central to national security and defense innovation. James Chew, President and General Manager of Government Technologies at Intel, explains why this shift is redefining how the semiconductor industry supports defense platforms.  Chew joins Dr. Arun Seraphin to explore how microelectronics has evolved from interchangeable components to mission-critical systems, driving a fundamental change in procurement and supply chain strategy. He highlights how past commercial off-the-shelf reforms created sustainment gaps as suppliers exited the market, leaving critical defense systems waiting on parts.  The discussion also examines Intel’s Secure Enclave, designed to provide reliable access to advanced semiconductor manufacturing through dedicated capacity at its Arizona facility. Chew further outlines how government investment can strengthen the microelectronics and semiconductor industrial base, align long-term priorities, and enable Intel to operate more like a defense prime contractor in an increasingly competitive global landscape.  NDIA ETI Report – “Modernizing Defense Microelectronics: Challenges and Opportunities”: https://www.emergingtechnologiesinstitute.org/publications/research-papers/modernizing-defense-microelectronics  ETH Podcast on Report:  https://www.youtube.com/@EmergingTechETI/search?query=electronics  ETH Podcast CHIPS Act and Microelectronics - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36rGE0yjw1Y&t=5s  Tech 101 Webinar: Microelectronics - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6sxrq3PiwI&list=PL5oQnv75FK5bwT5tk6qgPa3FhLWm1vgAv&index=37&t=3066s&pp=iAQBe sure to follow us on social media for updates, early access to upcoming events, inside scoops, & more:   LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0   Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3   Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8   And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: ndiaeti.org   #ETI #EmergingTech #Microelectronics #Semiconductor 

Join host Dr. Arun Seraphin for a conversation with Kate Käufer, President & Founder of KMK Global Strategies, LLC, to break down how the DoD, Congress, and industry are navigating the FY26 Appropriations Act. The discussion highlights key budget timelines, the evolving role of the Defense Industrial Base, and emerging priorities including munitions production and the Golden Dome. Kate shares insights on interpreting appropriations signals, understanding DoD priorities, and how companies can stay proactive through stronger communication and collaboration across the defense ecosystem. KMK Strategies: https://kmm-strategies.com/ Explore the 2026 DoD Appropriations Act: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/4016 SAVE THE DATE: 2026 NDIA Emerging Technologies for Defense Conference and Exhibition September 9-10, 2026, at the Walter E. Washington DC Convention Center: ndiatechexpo.org/ Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, early access to upcoming events, inside scoops, & more: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0 Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3 Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8 And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: https://bit.ly/47oA5K1 #EmergingTechETI #DoD #DefenseIndustrialBase #Munitions #GoldDome

The U.S. military has spent decades optimizing platforms while largely underinvesting in the system that actually operates them: the warfighter. As body-worn technologies mature, that imbalance is becoming harder to justify. In this episode, Sonya Rahmani, Warfighter Performance Lead at Booz Allen, joins Dr. Arun Seraphin to argue that the future of military advantage lies in treating the warfighter as an integrated system—one that spans cognitive, physiological, and tactical domains. The challenge is no longer collecting data but transforming it into actionable insights using Defense AI Technology. The conversation explores why the real bottlenecks are not just in AI or sensing, but in power management, system integration, and cybersecurity. Warfighters cannot manage fragmented devices, incompatible batteries, or constant data streams. The burden must shift from the individual to the system—through automation, edge computing, and intelligent filtering powered by Defense AI Technology. Rahmani also explains why commercial wearable technologies, while essential, are insufficient on their own. Devices built for connected, civilian environments must be fundamentally reengineered for disconnected operations, cybersecurity risks, and mission-specific demands in modern defense environments. Learn more about Booz Allen’s Defense Technology: https://www.boozallen.com/defense SAVE THE DATE: 2026 NDIA Emerging Technologies for Defense Conference and Exhibition September 9-10, 2026, at the Walter E. Washington DC Convention Center: ndiatechexpo.org/ Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, early access to upcoming events, inside scoops, & more: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0 Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3 Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8 And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: ndiaeti.org

Over 3,000 troops and contractors experienced some form of casualty moving fuel to U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. That history explains why military energy thinking has defaulted to fuel logistics for two decades — and why a more serious vulnerability has gone largely unexamined. Today, the U.S. power grid is emerging as a critical infrastructure risk with direct implications for national security. Will Rogers, Principal at Converge Strategies and co-author of Powering the Fight: Lessons from the Grid at War, joins Dr. Arun Seraphin to discuss the military’s growing dependence on the power grid. The conversation highlights the historical evolution of this dependency, noting that modern military operations rely heavily on a globally networked defense footprint tied to critical infrastructure systems. Rogers advocates for public-private cooperation to strengthen the power grid and address national security vulnerabilities under increasing stress. Read Converge Strategies’ article here: https://convergestrategies.com/powering-the-fight-lessons-from-the-grid-at-war-converge-strategies/ Get in contact with Will Rogers and the team at Converge Strategies: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-rogers-66360414/ Email: [email protected] Website: https://convergestrategies.com/ #EmergingTech #PowerGrid #CriticalInfrastracture #NationalSecurity Keywords: - Power grid - Critical Infrastructure - National Security Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, inside scoops, & more: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0 Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3 Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8 And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: https://bit.ly/47oA5K1

Join host Dr. Arun Seraphin for a conversation with Dr. Reed Skaggs of Lewis-Burke Associates examining how the Pentagon’s new innovation memo is reshaping the Defense Technology ecosystem. The discussion focuses on the memo’s emphasis on accelerating speed to Capability, strengthening the STEM-focused innovation workforce, and clarifying how service laboratories and research organizations support Emerging Technology development within the defense technology pipeline. Dr. Skaggs also highlights the growing importance of developing K–12 STEM capacity as a foundational national security issue, given current education gaps impacting the future Defense Technology workforce.Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, early access to upcoming events, inside scoops, & more:LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8 And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: https://bit.ly/47oA5K1 #Defense Technology #STEM #EmergingTech #EmergingTechETI

Join Dr. Arun Seraphin for a conversation with Dr. Sridhar Kota and Hal Chrisman of FlexSys exploring how adaptive morphing control surfaces are transforming aerodynamics across the aerospace industry and defense industry. The discussion centers on this engineering breakthrough and its potential to reshape future DoD platforms and missions. Drawing on more than two decades of experience in the aerospace and defense industry, Dr. Kota and Chrisman explain how this adaptive technology can improve lift-to-drag ratios, reduce fuel consumption and noise, and eliminate the need for conventional flaps in next-generation aircraft designs.  This conversation examines how morphing aerodynamics technologies could transform DoD mission requirements, from enabling shorter takeoff and landing distances to improving climb gradients and reducing fleet size requirements. In addition to the operational benefits for the Department of Defense (DoD), Dr. Kota and Chrisman explore key technology transition challenges facing the defense industry, including certification, integration, and scalability. The conversation concludes with a forward-looking vision for making morphing control surfaces an industry standard, along with practical guidance for OEMs and DoD partners interested in adopting this advanced aerodynamics technology. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, inside scoops, & more: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0 Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3 Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8 And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: https://bit.ly/47oA5K1

Another cycle of NDAA-driven Acquisition Reform has concluded, beginning with the introduction of the FoRGED Act and SPEED Act and culminating in the enactment of the FY26 NDAA. Join Dr. Arun Seraphin and Moshe Schwartz for a detailed discussion of NDAA acquisition reforms and why this legislation could represent one of the most significant defense acquisition reform packages in decades. Drawing on Moshe’s deep defense acquisition expertise, the conversation breaks down what changes to acquisition policy were enacted, what did not make it into law, and how Congress and the Department of Defense are aligned on implementation.The discussion examines major acquisition changes introduced in the FY26 NDAA, including expanded acquisition authorities, best-value decision-making, commercial-first acquisition preferences, and new roles and responsibilities across the defense acquisition workforce. Moshe and Arun analyze the potential impact of these reforms on defense contractors, including nontraditional defense contractors, with a close look at implications for intellectual property rights, consumption-based acquisition models, sustainment strategies, and the elevated roles of portfolio acquisition executives and product support managers within the Department of Defense. Etherton and Associates: https://www.ethertonandassociates.com/ ETI's Insights into FY26 NDAA: https://www.emergingtechnologiesinstitute.org/publications/insights/fy2025ndaa FY26 NDAA: https://www.congress.gov/119/bills/s1071/BILLS-119s1071enr.pdf Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, inside scoops, & more:LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8 And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: https://bit.ly/47oA5K1

Join Dr. Arun Seraphin and Dr. Jae Yu for a conversation that explores new data on Pentagon senior civilian leadership, illuminating the backgrounds of individuals serving in STEM leadership roles focused on Emerging Technologies. This discussion draws on the NDIA ETI report published by Dr. Yu, “Mapping Government Officials in Emerging Technologies Roles,” which examines how STEM education and prior STEM experience shape career pathways within the Pentagon.The report and conversation analyze leadership backgrounds across the 14 critical technology areas identified by the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (USD(R&E)), highlighting where STEM expertise is concentrated and where gaps remain in the Pentagon’s Emerging Technologies workforce. The discussion concludes with data-driven recommendations to strengthen the Pentagon’s senior civilian STEM workforce. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, inside scoops, & more: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0 Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3 Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8 And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: https://bit.ly/47oA5K1 #EmergingTech #EmergingTechETI #USDR&E #Pentagon #STEM

In part two of this conversation, Dr. Arun Seraphin is joined again by HON. David Berteau to examine how Defense Acquisition and Acquisition Reform in the Defense Industry evolved after the end of the Cold War. Berteau reflects on why Defense Acquisition Reform has remained a persistent challenge and highlights the need for a balanced approach that weighs both mission success and financial outcomes across the Defense Industry. The conversation explores how Defense Acquisition challenges unfolded over time, beginning with post–Cold War budget drawdowns that accelerated consolidation within the Defense Industry. It then examines the 1990s rise of commercial technology, driven in part by new legislation such as the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act (FASA) and the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). David and Arun connect these Acquisition Reform efforts of the 1990s to today’s challenges by discussing how the Defense Industry can integrate commercial technology at speed, better align requirements with budgets and programs, and navigate Congress’s evolving role in Defense Acquisition. The discussion offers insight into what effective Defense Acquisition Reform could look like today amid near-peer competition and rapid technological change. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, early access to upcoming events, inside scoops, & more: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0 Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3 Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8 And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: https://bit.ly/47oA5K1 #EmergingTech #EmergingTechETI #DefenseAcquisition #AcquisitionReform #FARA #FASA  

Join Dr. Arun Seraphin and David Berteau for a conversation exploring the common threads across major defense acquisition reform efforts since the 1980s. Drawing on decades of experience in both the public and private sectors, David offers a historical perspective on how shifting geopolitical threats have driven repeated efforts to reform the Department of Defense’s acquisition system. The discussion centers on the Carlucci Initiatives, which was a set of recommendations aimed at reducing costs, shortening acquisition timelines, and improving industry-DoD collaboration. Arun and David compare these initiatives with other major reform efforts, including the Packard Commission and the Goldwater-Nichols Act. David also reflects on his time as Executive Secretary of the Packard Commission, sharing firsthand insights into the challenges that led to its formation and the impact of its recommendations. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, inside scoops, & more: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0 Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3 Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8 And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: https://bit.ly/47oA5K1

Join ETI Associate Research Fellow Anna Kim for a live conversation from the Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation, and Education Conference (I/ITSEC) with Bob Kleinhample, Director of the National Training and Simulation Association’s Next Big Things Initiative and CEO of Pioneer Sim. Drawing on his experience as an Army officer and longtime leader in modeling, simulation, and training, Bob shares insights on how emerging technologies are shaping the future of defense training and readiness. The discussion explores how artificial intelligence, quantum computing, human–machine teaming, and wearable sensors are being evaluated for real operational impact, as well as how the Next Big Things Initiative identifies technologies on the horizon. Bob also reflects on the barriers to adoption within defense, the importance of aligning innovation with warfighter needs, and the role I/ITSEC plays in bringing industry, government, and academia together to accelerate next-generation training and simulation capabilities. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, inside scoops, & more:LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8 And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: https://bit.ly/47oA5K1

Join host Arun Seraphin for a conversation on U.S.–China technology competition and industrial policy with Randy Shriver and Mike Kuiken of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission. Drawing from the Commission’s 2025 report, this episode examines how China uses state-directed industrial policy to accelerate innovation across critical sectors such as aerospace, biotechnology, semiconductors, and quantum computing—and what that means for U.S. economic and national security. Randy and Mike share insights from the Commission’s bipartisan work with Congress, highlighting recommendations to strengthen America’s competitive edge through public-private partnerships, increased investment in foundational research, and targeted initiatives such as a “Quantum First 2030” effort. The discussion also explores the challenges of scaling innovation in the United States, addressing workforce needs, and balancing openness with research security at American universities, offering a clear-eyed look at the policy choices shaping the future of emerging technology competition. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, inside scoops, & more: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0 Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3 Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8 And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: https://bit.ly/47oA5K1

Join host Dr. Arun Seraphin for a deep dive into the evolving challenges of research security in national security R&D with guest Dr. Shanni Silberberg of Lewis-Burke Associates. Dr. Silberberg discusses the need to balance global scientific collaboration with national security protections, as well as the practical challenges of implementation and assessing research risks. The conversation also includes examining the proposed SAFE Research Act, which appeared in the House version of the FY 2026 NDAA but was not included in the final bill. The legislation would have limited federal funding for institutions collaborating with hostile foreign entities and required extensive researcher disclosures. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, inside scoops, & more: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0 Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3 Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8 And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: https://bit.ly/47oA5K1