Building the Software Defined Navy

This month on the Mission Matters podcast, we sat down with Justin Fanelli, the CTO of the U.S. Department of the Navy, and Artem Sherbinin, the CTO of the U.S. Surface Navy to discuss the future software-defined Navy. We cover everything from computer vision deployment in the maritime domain to why technology will matter in a conflict with China to what “software defined warfare” actually means.As always, please let us know your thoughts, and please reach out if you or anyone you know is building in the national security domain. Key words: Navy, technology adoption, software-defined systems, integration, resilient communications, data integration, hybrid forces, geopolitical context, defense technology, innovation, AI integration, defense tech startups, naval operations, generative AI, military technology, DOD tech adoption, Ukraine conflict lessons, computer vision, maritime technology, startup adviceChaptersIntroduction to the Guests and Their RolesChallenges in Technology Adoption and IntegrationThe Future of Software-Defined WarfareThe Importance of Data IntegrationGeopolitical Context and the Navy's RoleThe Urgency of Technological Integration in DefenseReviving Patriotism and National SecuritySuccess Stories in Defense Technology IntegrationBuilding Effective Partnerships for InnovationKey Metrics for Measuring Success in DefenseIntegrating New Technologies with Existing SystemsLearning from Successful Startups in DefenseAdvice for Startups Entering the Defense SpaceInnovative Program Management in DefenseStrategic Partnerships and Funding MechanismsOutcome-Driven Metrics and AccountabilityFuture Wishes for Defense TechnologyLessons from Ukraine for Indo-Pacific ConflictsGenerative AI in the NavyChallenges of Technology Integration in the DoDBuilding for the Navy: Unique ConsiderationsComputer Vision in the Maritime DomainAdversaries' Adoption of Maritime TechnologiesUnderstanding Adversaries' Military Technology Approaches