Futur-ish 006: The Rumour That Cost Thirty-Five Billion Dollars and Created A Data Center Radar
Oct 16, 2025
Explore the intriguing connections between a costly F-35 jet program and a powerful rumor that triggered global political tensions. Delve into the reasons behind countries reconsidering their aircraft orders amidst doubts over reliability. Uncover how export controls impact AI chip distribution and the fascinating world of smuggling banned technology. Discover the concept of hyperstition and how imagined futures shape real policy decisions, revealing that history often repeats itself in unexpected ways.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
F-35 Is A Geopolitical Platform
- The F-35 is a decades-long, high-tech program combining hardware, sensor fusion, and a networked logistics system called ODIN.
- Its complexity and allied dependence make it a geopolitical tool beyond mere aircraft sales.
Rumour Became Strategic Leverage
- Rumors spread that the US can remotely 'brick' allied F-35s, prompting buyers to reconsider purchases.
- Whether literal or rhetorical, the fear reveals how software and dependence create leverage in alliances.
HIMARS Geofencing Set A Precedent
- The US geofenced HIMARS in Ukraine to prevent strikes into Russia, showing remote control over allied weapons.
- That public action made the F-35 kill-switch rumor more believable to partners.
