Will Roper

Former Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Will Roper, talks about revolutionizing military procurement with software factories, playbook for innovation, digital engineering, AI operationalization, and scaling innovation. He also shares advice for acquisition professionals and discusses the difficulty of creating digital engineering platforms. The podcast delves into parallels between Formula One and federal acquisitions, highlighting the importance of adapting to rapidly evolving technological landscapes for the defense sector to compete globally.

Dr. Will Roper, a seasoned physicist and foreign policy strategist, dives into the future of warfare and defense technology. He discusses how the Ukraine conflict is reshaping military strategies and the vital role of digital transformation in aerospace. Roper emphasizes the need for innovative approaches in the defense industry, especially regarding drones and commercial technologies. He also highlights the complexities of U.S.-China relations and the significance of supply chain resilience for national security in an evolving global landscape.