As the United States navigates an era of renewed great power competition and rapid technological transformation, the National Security Institute will launch 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 through September 2025, this series will bring 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 will be designed to identify practical, actionable solutions to modernize defense acquisition, operationalize emerging technologies, and support the resilience and readiness of tomorrow’s warfighter.
Series Agenda
- Roundtable 1: Accelerating Acquisition Reform
May 29, 2025 | 12:00 – 1:00 pm ET
This session will explore how the Department of Defense can streamline acquisition pathways—particularly software and dual-use technologies—to better meet the demands of modern conflict. Participants will assess tools such as Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) and Commercial Solutions Openings (CSOs) and consider 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
Success in future conflicts will depend on the ability to process and act on information at machine speed. This roundtable will examine how AI and advanced data platforms can enable real-time situational awareness and decision-making. Discussions will focus on predictive analytics, sensor fusion, and building trusted, scalable battlefield intelligence. - Roundtable 3: Modern Battlefield Tech – Autonomy, Edge Computing & Resilience
July 24, 2025 | 12:00 – 1:00 pm ET
This session will dive into autonomous systems and edge computing technologies that support distributed operations in contested and communications-denied environments. Participants will consider 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
September 18, 2025 | 12:00 – 1:00 pm ET
In the series finale, participants will explore cross-cutting capabilities needed to adapt to the evolving battlespace—from AI-supported decision tools and immersive interfaces to modular logistics systems. This conversation will surface bold ideas for advancing human-machine integration and sustaining force effectiveness across multi-domain operations.
This program is open to current Capitol Hill staff. All sessions will be held in-person on Capitol Hill. Attendance at each session is strongly encouraged.
If you are interested in participating, please register below or reach out to NSI Policy Coordinator Keelin Wolfe at [email protected].