Why Speed, Not Size, Will Define the Next War

The a16z Show

2025/11/01

Overview Shownote Highlights Transcript Chapters Pins

Shownote

As global tensions rise, AI and autonomy are transforming how nations prepare for conflict. In this episode, Horacio Rozanski, CEO of Booz Allen Hamilton and Gary Steele, CEO of Shield AI join Erik Torenberg to discuss how technology, speed, and public–pr...

Highlights

As nations navigate an increasingly complex security landscape, the fusion of technology and military strategy is redefining readiness and response. In this conversation, defense leaders explore how autonomy, speed, and real-world lessons are reshaping the future of warfare.

09:05

The U.S. must embrace failure in development to deliver reliable tech to warfighters.

12:13

Autonomy in drones is redefining conflicts

24:50

AI algorithms must evolve in real-time to meet dynamic battlefield needs

34:00

Companies prefer outcome-based payment models over traditional cost-plus contracts

Chapters

How Are Global Conflicts Redefining Military Readiness?

00:00

What Has Ukraine Taught Us About the Future of Combat?

12:13

Can Private Innovation Secure the Battlefield of Tomorrow?

18:33

Why Is Defense Procurement So Slow—And Can It Change?

34:00

Transcript

Horacio Rozanski: We are in these really, very challenging, very dangerous geopolitical moment, perhaps the most challenging and dangerous of the last 50 years. Gary Steele: Autonomy will play a critical role. It's redefining the way conflicts have been f...