The Aerospace Advantage Episode 217 — It’s All About Munitions: New Perspectives
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Jan 4, 2025 In this discussion, Steve Milano from Anduril and Maj Gen Larry Stutzriem, USAF (Ret.), delve into the urgent need for enhanced munitions capabilities in U.S. defense. They address the pressing global competition that requires increased production and innovative strategies in military operations. The conversation highlights the evolution of modular munitions, the integration of autonomous technologies, and the importance of agility in software development. They emphasize that adapting to modern warfare demands is critical for maintaining military readiness and effectiveness.
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Munitions Production Challenges
- The US faces a significant risk of being outproduced by adversaries in war materiel, especially munitions.
- Current US munitions production is insufficient for potential large-scale conflicts, with stockpiles at record lows.
Past Conflicts and Munitions Usage
- The US relied on large stockpiles in Desert Storm, shifting to precision munitions in later conflicts like OEF.
- Munitions budgets were often cut in the past due to low expenditure rates and a perceived lack of major threats.
Anduril's Approach to Munitions Production
- Anduril focuses on solving hard problems and saw the munitions challenge as an opportunity for innovation.
- Their approach involves self-investment, early testing, and modular manufacturing to be responsive to changing needs.