Battle Lines ‘We can’t future-proof our defence, but we can be future-ready’
Aug 25, 2025
Dr. Gabriele Rizzo, a cutting-edge defense futurist, works with NATO and the US Space Force to envision and prepare for future threats. He discusses the need for NATO to adapt its strategies in a shifting geopolitical landscape, particularly in light of Russia's actions. Rizzo also dives into Black Swan events that shifted military strategies historically, underlining the importance of foresight. Additionally, he addresses Europe’s rising defense budgets and the complex balance between immediate democratic priorities and long-term security needs.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Many Futures, Not One Prediction
- Foresight maps many possible futures rather than predicting one single outcome.
- This widens decision-makers' options and improves present-day choices.
Methods Plus Imagination
- Foresight combines formal methods with human imagination across six competencies.
- Both the toolbox and people's creativity are required to build usable futures.
Design For Readiness, Not Proof
- Aim to be 'future-ready' by building resilience and readiness rather than 'future-proofing'.
- Design systems to adapt because the future does not exist as a single outcome.
