Gokul Subramanian, Senior Vice President of Engineering at Anduril Industries, sheds light on innovative technology in defense, particularly in drones and computer vision. He discusses how Anduril adapts to remote work challenges, enhancing recruitment with diverse talent. The conversation dives deep into creating custom PubSub systems, integrating AI in defense, and managing data for military operations. Gokul also touches on sophisticated training simulations and the importance of interoperability in defense technologies, showcasing the intersection of tech and national security.
Anduril aims to revolutionize defense technology by fostering collaboration among diverse talents to creatively address national security challenges.
The Lattice SDK enhances interoperability among defense systems by enabling efficient communication and integration of legacy systems with new technologies.
Deep dives
Anduril's Innovative Approach to Defense Technology
Anduril Industries aims to modernize defense technology by adopting an innovative approach similar to what SpaceX did for space exploration. The company develops its own hardware and software, enabling a seamless integration that traditionally lacked in defense systems. This approach encourages collaboration among diverse talent, including veterans, tech experts from major technology firms, and traditional defense engineers, fostering a creative environment to tackle complex national security challenges. By reigniting interest in defense roles, Anduril strives to attract top talent back into the defense sector, addressing urgent national security needs in a rapidly changing global landscape.
The Development and Impact of Lattice SDK
The Lattice software development kit (SDK) represents a significant leap forward in achieving interoperability among defense systems, which have historically been siloed and incompatible. By providing a shared specification, Lattice allows for enhanced communication and data sharing between various military applications, improving operational efficiency. The SDK was designed with the understanding that defense organizations must adapt their existing systems to integrate new technologies rather than requiring complete system overhauls. This initiative aims to streamline integration processes for both legacy and new systems, ultimately enhancing the operational capabilities of military forces.
Addressing Challenges in Remote Testing and Decentralized Operations
Anduril has adapted to the challenges of remote testing and decentralized operations, which have become essential in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing military needs. With test sites established far from headquarters, the company has prioritized innovation in remote telemetry and management, enabling engineers to conduct tests and gather data without being physically present. This evolution reflects a broader recognition of the need for flexibility in defense operations, allowing for effective responses to dynamic environments often characterized by varied communication capabilities. The emphasis on decentralized operations enhances the robustness of defense technologies in real-world scenarios, where communication might be disrupted or limited.
Future Directions and Collaboration in Defense Technology
As Anduril continues to develop and refine its technologies, the focus remains on fostering collaborations within the defense community and adapting to emerging challenges. The company emphasizes the importance of an agile approach to software development, enabling updates and adjustments based on user feedback and operational needs. By seeking partnerships with both defense and commercial space organizations, Anduril aims to create a unified ecosystem that benefits a broader range of defense applications. This commitment to openness and collaboration signals a shift within the defense sector, encouraging innovation and improving the overall effectiveness of military operations.
Anduril is a technology defense company with a focus on drones, computer vision, and other problems related to national security. It is a full-stack company that builds its own hardware and software, which leads to a great many interesting questions about cloud services, engineering workflows, and management.
Gokul Subramanian is Senior Vice President of Engineering for Software Programs at Anduril Industries. He joins the show to share his knowledge of the national security problem set, how Anduril operates and what the company has built.
Sean’s been an academic, startup founder, and Googler. He has published works covering a wide range of topics from AI to quantum computing. Currently, Sean is an AI Entrepreneur in Residence at Confluent where he works on AI strategy and thought leadership. You can connect with Sean on LinkedIn.