Kratos Built the Marine Corps' Unbeatable Unmanned Aircraft

Steve Fendley, President of Kratos Unmanned Systems Division at Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, joins the show to discuss where unmanned and autonomous systems are taking U.S. military power. He breaks down the logic of attritable platforms, scaling production, and why the next decade of deterrence is going to be won by systems you can field in volume. We get into what “next-gen warfare” looks like when autonomy and electronic warfare compete inside contested environments and why the US Navy may be fielding unmanned craft, no known weapon can defeat. Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background00:57 Kratos and Next Generation Warfare04:08 Challenges in Unmanned Aircraft Development06:51 Supply Chain and Production Scaling09:46 Ethical Considerations in Autonomous Warfare12:59 The Role of Attritable Aircraft16:04 Autonomy and Human-Machine Interaction26:16 The Evolution of Pilot Responsibilities29:02 Human Factors in Advanced Systems30:52 Collaboration Across Military Branches33:19 Enhancing Legacy Aircraft with Unmanned Systems35:39 Mission Capabilities of CCA Aircraft38:08 The Role of Unmanned Systems in Modern Warfare41:13 Strategic Advantages of Unmanned Aircraft46:07 The Future of Valkyrie and Its Impact51:51 Hornet IV: A Game Changer for Taiwan53:36 Cost Efficiency of Modern Military Aircraft56:04 Strategic Dispersal of Military Assets57:54 Enhancing Air Defense Capabilities01:00:02 Legacy Systems and Their Role in Modern Warfare01:01:25 Bridging Capabilities with Allies01:02:26 Cybersecurity and Technology Theft01:03:25 Understanding Hive Mind Technology01:08:08 AI Precision vs. Estimation in Warfare01:10:44 Lessons from the Ukraine Conflict01:15:41 Innovations in Ground-Based Unmanned SystemsCheck Out Our Sponsors:Honor Tribe Outdoors (HTO) is more than a non-profit organization – we are a tribe, a community of Combat Veterans and Gold Star Families who find healing and connection through the serenity of outdoor conservation activities. Our programs offer a respite from the everyday grind, providing the opportunity to hunt, connect with nature, and create lifelong memories and bonds.https://honortribeoutdoors.org/Kill Cliff Energy! Looking for a clean energy boost without the crash? Kill Cliff Energy has you covered! Packed with natural ingredients, electrolytes, and just the right amount of caffeine, Kill Cliff gives you the energy you need to power through your day. Plus, with our exclusive discount code KCPODCAST20, you can get 20% off your next purchase. Fuel your energy and recovery with Kill Cliff! Check them out at https://www.killcliff.comIntroducing the Lite Sleeper System, your perfect companion for every adventure. Designed for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts, this tent combines lightweight portability with robust weather protection. Don't let a bulky tent weigh you down—choose the Lite Sleeper Tent and experience unparalleled convenience and comfort on your next journey! Use code "FIRE10" for 10% off your entire purchase! Explore more and get yours today at ⁠https://thelitesleeper.com/