Eric Keels discusses the challenges affecting innovation in the U.S. military. He explains that defense spending often focuses on large, visible equipment like ships, including the LPD-17 San Antonio-class and the USS Gerald R. Ford, while overlooking the digital systems and infrastructure that help them operate effectively.
Keels says these issues go beyond just the “plumbing” of modern warfare. He points to bigger problems, such as slow and inefficient purchasing processes and a tendency to stick with familiar systems instead of trying new, potentially better ideas. While these challenges exist in the private sector as well, he emphasizes that the consequences are much higher in the military.
He concludes by noting that growing competition, especially with China, is shifting focus toward making systems more resilient, adaptable, and better prepared for future challenges.