Michael C. Horowitz

Shashank Joshi, a Defense editor at The Economist renowned for his Ukraine coverage, teams up with Michael Horowitz, a Penn professor and former defense official specializing in AI. They delve into Ukraine's battlefield prospects, debating political cohesion and defense capacity. The discussion turns to Trump's shifting stance on Putin and its implications. They also explore how AI, particularly through 'precise mass' tactics, revolutionizes modern warfare. The pair emphasize the incremental nature of AI advancements in combat and the enduring challenges in defense innovation.

Fiona Cunningham, a Political Science professor at the University of Pennsylvania, discusses her book on China’s nuclear strategy. Michael Horowitz, also from Penn and a former Defense official, co-hosts the conversation. They dive into how China balances military force with political goals without escalating to nuclear warfare. The guests also highlight China’s evolving defense strategies, including the significance of their 'no first use' nuclear policy and the development of advanced cyber and counter-space capabilities in response to U.S. actions.

Michael C. Horowitz, Director of Perry World House and a former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense, explores the future of military strategy shaped by AI and autonomous weapons. He discusses the Replicator initiative, emphasizing a shift towards larger, cost-effective arsenals to counter threats like China. The conversation highlights ethical considerations in defense budgeting and the evolving dynamics of warfare. Horowitz argues for the critical balance between human involvement and technology, calling for reforms in software development amid modern conflicts like Russo-Ukrainian.