The Hard Truth About Startups in Defense Technology with Matthew Steckman

Jan 7, 2025

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What does it take to build a thriving startup in defense technology?

In the world of startups, chaos is constant. But in the defense sector? It’s chaos with billion-dollar stakes.

In this week’s episode of Defense Mavericks, Matthew Steckman, Chief Revenue Officer at Anduril Industries, reveals how defense startups like theirs survive and thrive. From predicting government demands to integrating cutting-edge technology like generative AI, success isn’t just about innovation–it’s about grit.

Matthew breaks down what makes defense startups unique and reveals the three critical factors for staying ahead in this fiercely competitive space.

You’ll also learn why modeling and simulation are indispensable for testing emerging technologies at scale and how the future depends on the velocity of integrating and replacing system components.

Ready to hear how startups are reshaping the future of defense?

Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways:

(00:00) Introduction

(02:14) The realities of startup life in defense

(04:45) Capital allocation and risk in defense startups

(06:32) 3 key factors for defense tech success

(10:42) Overcoming challenges in defense tech startups

(12:38) Generative AI’s role in defense innovation

(16:36) Modeling and simulation for battlefield readiness

(19:57) Solving the system-level problem of kill chain integration

(23:29) Why grit matters more than qualifications in hiring

(28:40) Advice for aspiring defense startup founders

(31:51) Acquisition advice for small companies

(33:05) How Anduril drives competition in defense

Additional Resources:

👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/

👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/

👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/

👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks

Connect with today’s guest:

💥Follow Matthew Steckman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-steckman-4a23a8b0/

💥Visit Anduril Industries for more information: https://www.anduril.com/

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Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.