Global Conference 2026

Future of War: Modernizing Military Power

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The meaning of “readiness” is being rewritten in real time, as today’s militaries must deter near-peer adversaries, defend critical infrastructure from relentless cyberattacks, and reconstitute an overstretched industrial base. Increasingly, tools are built not by traditional prime contractors, but by a new generation of venture-backed defense startups. This session brings together senior cyber leaders, founders of cutting-edge defense tech companies, investors backing the new arsenal of democracy, and former commanders who have led forces in complex theaters. Together, they’ll explore how AI, autonomy technology, and next-gen manufacturing are reshaping military power. This panel will explore what it will take for government, industry, and capital to ensure the U.S. and its allies are truly prepared for the conflicts of the 2030s and beyond. 

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    Speakers

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    Julie Bush

    Co-founder and CEO, Valinor
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    Dave DeWalt

    Founder and CEO, NightDragon
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    Gary Steele

    CEO, Shield AI