Defense & Aerospace Report Defense & Aerospace Air Power Podcast [Dec 04, 25] Season 3 E46: Silicon and Sanctuary
Dec 4, 2025
Dr. Mark Lewis, former Chief Scientist of the U.S. Air Force and head of Purdue's Applied Research Institute, dives into the technological advances of 2025 and speculates on what to watch in 2026. He discusses the rise of hypersonics, the significance of next-gen fighters like the F-47, and innovations in propulsion, including rotating detonation engines. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of partnerships in microelectronics and the complexities of counter-drone strategies. Meanwhile, The Venerable Dr. Giles Legood shares the historical significance of St. Clement Danes church for the RAF and USAF.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Convergence Drives Breakthrough Capability
- Technologies converge to create new, deployable capabilities across aerospace and defense.
- Mark Lewis says hypersonics, directed energy, AI, and manufacturing together enable scalable fielding.
Make Hypersonics Scalable By Cutting Costs
- Reduce unit cost with advanced manufacturing to make hypersonics scalable and deployable.
- Apply additive manufacturing and modern production methods to cut engine and component costs.
AI Shortens Decision Time Against Fast Threats
- AI and machine learning help detect, track, and respond to very fast threats like hypersonics.
- Mark Lewis highlights AI's role in shortening human decision cycles for tracking and engagement.