Navigating AI in Defense with Daniel Gallagher

Daniel “Dig” Gallagher is a senior defense leader with more than two decades of experience across the U.S. Navy, federal markets, and the security and defense industry, leading large, complex programs where operational execution, technology, and mission outcomes are tightly linked.Daniel’s background spans naval warfare, major defense systems, and large-scale federal programs, with hands-on responsibility for strategy, execution, risk, and performance at scale. He brings deep familiarity with how defense organizations adopt new capabilities, manage technical complexity, and sustain trust across government, industry, and operational stakeholders. His current focus is on how artificial intelligence will reshape naval warfare and defense decision-making. That perspective is grounded in historical precedent, drawing lessons from past naval technology transitions, from propulsion and fire control to integrated battle management, to inform disciplined, effective AI integration today. With over 20 year serving as a leader in Defense, he led and advised organizations across defense, technology, and federal markets, supporting executive decision-making, program leadership, and long-term strategicplanning.