Ep 138: AI, Space-Based Interceptors & the Bleeding Edge of Warfare with Pentagon R&D Chief Emil Michael

The conversation centers on Emil Michael's role as Undersecretary of War for Research and Engineering, focusing on how he's applying Silicon Valley speed to the Pentagon to address critical technology gaps. Michael outlines six critical technology areas—applied AI, contested logistics, biomanufacturing, quantum and battlefield information dominance, scaled hypersonics, and scaled directed energy—driving the Department of War's R&D efforts. He emphasizes the need to catch up with and surpass China's military advancements, particularly in areas like hypersonics and drone defense. Michael highlights the importance of public-private partnerships, citing Google's collaboration on AI as a positive example, and discusses the Office of Strategic Capital's role in providing loans to scale critical technologies and rebuild the defense industrial base. The discussion also covers the need for a stronger American defense posture to deter adversaries and maintain peace through strength.