Riskgaming What’s next for European defense autonomy
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Aug 7, 2025 Eric Slesinger, general partner of 201 Ventures and expert on European defense tech, shares insights on the transformation of defense strategies post-Ukraine invasion. He discusses how EU nations are collaborating on procurement and the future of military technology, emphasizing the shift from traditional assets to drones and AI. Slesinger also addresses the unique challenges faced by defense tech founders and the need for tailored approaches in a competitive landscape. The podcast delves into the evolving dynamics of public trust amid misinformation, reflecting on how these factors impact modern democracy.
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Europe's Fragmented Defense Market
- European defense tech startups face a unique challenge with multiple independent buyers across countries.
- Founders must engage government relations early and tailor strategies per nation.
Regional Defense Strengths in Europe
- Different European regions have centers of gravity based on defense tech expertise and infrastructure.
- For example, Germany excels in hypersonics while Nordics lead in maritime technologies.
Europe as Gray Zone Warfare Hotspot
- Europe is ground zero for gray zone and hybrid warfare over the next 10 to 20 years due to political fragmentation.
- Traditional rivalries create vulnerabilities for such asymmetric conflicts.
