As the United States continues to navigate an era of renewed great power competition and rapid technological transformation, the National Security Institute convened Forging the Future Force, a four-part, senior-level, off-the-record roundtable series focused on accelerating U.S. defense innovation. Held on Capitol Hill from May 2025 through January 2026, the series brought together senior congressional staffers, military leaders, technologists, and NSI fellows for candid, forward-looking conversations about the urgent challenges shaping the future of national defense.
Each session was designed to identify practical, actionable solutions to modernize defense acquisition, operationalize emerging technologies, and support the resilience and readiness of tomorrow’s warfighte
Series Agenda
- Roundtable 1: Accelerating Acquisition Reform
May 29, 2025 | 12:00 – 1:00 pm ET
This session explored how the Department of Defense can streamline acquisition pathways—particularly for software and dual-use technologies—to better meet the demands of modern conflict. Participants assessed tools such as Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) and Commercial Solutions Openings (CSOs) and considered whether these flexible models should become the new norm across the acquisition enterprise. - Roundtable 2: Battlefield Intelligence – Data and AI as Force Multipliers
June 26, 2025 | 12:00 – 1:00 pm ET
This roundtable examined how AI and advanced data platforms can enable real-time situational awareness and decision-making in future conflicts. Discussions focused on predictive analytics, sensor fusion, and the challenges of building trusted, scalable battlefield intelligence. - Roundtable 3: Modern Battlefield Tech – Autonomy, Edge Computing & Resilience
September 25, 2025 | 12:00 – 1:00 pm ET
This session focused on autonomous systems and edge computing technologies that support distributed operations in contested and communications-denied environments. Participants discussed how human-machine teaming, edge analytics, and resilient communications infrastructure can enhance survivability and mission continuity. - Roundtable 4: The New Battlespace – Future Needs and Capabilities
January 28, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 pm ET
In the series finale, participants explored cross-cutting capabilities needed to adapt to the evolving battlespace—from AI-supported decision tools and immersive interfaces to modular logistics systems. The discussion surfaced forward-looking ideas for advancing human-machine integration and sustaining force effectiveness across multi-domain operations.