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The Pentagon’s acquisition process has long posed challenges for both government and industry, with bureaucratic hurdles often slowing innovation. As the Department of Defense advances urgent modernization efforts, streamlining how the military buys and fields technology is more important than ever. From autonomous drones and AI-driven tools to munitions stockpiles and shipbuilding capacity, today’s security landscape demands faster, more agile procurement. At the same time, the defense industrial base is shifting, as legacy contractors, emerging tech firms, and dual-use commercial players compete and collaborate in a crowded market. Policy decisions around domestic manufacturing, supply chain resilience, and industry engagement are now shaping not only who builds the tools of tomorrow but how quickly they reach the mission.

At this year’s State of Defense Business event, Defense One brought together public sector leaders to explore the future of defense acquisitions and industrial base strategy, highlighting how the Pentagon is advancing modernization and reshaping the defense business landscape. Officials shared updates on efforts to streamline procurement, accelerate the adoption of emerging technologies, and expand production capacity to meet evolving mission demands. Discussions included examining the growing role of autonomy and advanced tech in military operations, challenges in scaling shipbuilding and manufacturing, and how the Department is rethinking collaboration across both established defense contractors and new industry players.