The Merge

Col. Joseph Little, a seasoned B-52 Weapons Systems Officer and current Detachment 5 Commander of AFOTEC, shares insights on the monumental B-52J modernization program. With a budget of $48 billion, this overhaul aims to extend the bomber’s life into the 2060s through new engines, advanced cockpits, and upgraded radar. Little discusses the aircraft’s storied history, the evolution of its technology, and the complexities faced in operational testing. He also recounts tactical maneuvers and the unpredictable nature of military operations.

Dan Magy, co-founder and CEO of Firestorm, discusses his vision of democratizing drone manufacturing through innovative 3D printing. He highlights how the Ukraine conflict catalyzed the evolution of aerial technology, emphasizing the urgent need for adaptable defense strategies. Magy reveals the benefits of modular drones, which are designed for quick reconfiguration in diverse scenarios. The conversation dives into the chaos and learning opportunities of crash-and-learn methods in drone development, shaping the future of military operations.

Andrew Hunter, the US Air Force's chief weapons buyer with a staggering $60 billion acquisition portfolio, discusses the future of military procurement. He shares insights on the B-21 bomber and Sentinel ICBM programs while emphasizing the importance of civilian oversight. The conversation dives into navigating complex defense contracts, including negotiations for the E-7 Wedgetail, and the need for innovation in defense tech. Hunter also reveals exclusive details about Collaborative Combat Aircraft, providing a rare glimpse into the evolving landscape of military capabilities.

Exclusive conversation with Anduril and General Atomics on the Air Force's CCA program. Topics include shared superpowers, software insights, integration challenges, and unique perspectives. Explore origins of CCA program, vehicle design, innovation model, and more. Must-listen for military tech enthusiasts!

Palantir CTO Shyam Sankar discusses software-defined warfare, defense modernization, and innovation in defense software. Topics include Palantir's lawsuit against the Army, leadership mentalities, culture, and history. The conversation touches on the urgency of innovation, challenges in security clearances, and the shift towards software-defined warfare in defense acquisition.

Andy Lowery, CEO of Epirus, discusses high-power microwave weapons, their impact on electronics, and their applications in defense against drones and swarm protection. The Army is actively testing these counter-UAS systems, while the Navy and Air Force show interest in their diverse capabilities. This defense tech episode offers insights into the fascinating world of directed energy weapons.

Perry Boyle, Co-founder of MITS Capital, talks about revolutionizing Ukraine's defense industry by investing in startups, compliance and regulatory challenges, fast innovation cycle, key investing insights, and investing in peace. The podcast delves into the establishment of a defense tech accelerator, the potential for NATO supply, geopolitics, innovation in defense technology, and Ukraine's global impact.

Captain John Konrad, expert on Merchant Marine and national security, discusses the Merchant Marine Academy, Military Sealift Command, Jones Act, ghost fleet, USS Bonhomme Richard fire response, and the biggest merchant mariner customer. Packed with intel and some fun anecdotes, this episode explores the intersection of military, navy, mariner, and national security.

Dr. Stacie Pettyjohn discusses drone tech in Ukraine conflict, innovation on both sides, and notable absent critical drone technology. Conversation extends to drone boats, exploring the evolution in warfare tactics and technologies in modern conflicts.

Former Australian diplomat John Fowler discusses global events like China's economic shifts, Taiwan elections, Russia in Ukraine, and US involvement in international matters. They delve into AUKUS, Japan's military, and US superpower status, offering unique perspectives. John runs International Intrigue, a daily newsletter by former diplomats, providing insights on world events and their significance.