June 11, 2025

MWI Podcast: The U.S. Defense Industrial Base, from Steel to Software

Mobilizing the U.S. defense industrial base. for a future large-scale conflict, however, will look very different than it has in the past. In the information age, data and software play a vital role alongside ammunition and aircraft. Globally extended and complex supply chains complicate defense planning. And the defense industrial base is struggling to meet the requirements of today’s strategic challenges. So how can it be made ready to meet tomorrow’s? To explore this subject, John Amble is joined on this episode of the MWI Podcast by Becca Wasser.

Listen to the full episode on the Modern War Institute.

  • Commentary

    Defense

    Where Do We Go from Here?

    Introduction Over the past nine months, The New American Defense Industrial Base essay series has brought together a wide range of participants to deliver a variety of views o...

    By Susanna V. Blume

    • September 3, 2026
  • Commentary

    Defense

    Manufacturing a New National Security

    Introduction The United States sits atop the world’s pedestal of military superpowers—particularly when it comes to developing and employing the most sophisticated technology—...

    By James Swartout & Nick Doucette

    • August 28, 2026
  • Commentary

    Defense

    The Impossible Middle East

    The Middle East today has some thinking to do. It will need to draw up new ways to preserve its wealth, to pursue greater self-sufficiency, and to diversify—and even own—its s...

    By Becca Wasser

    • Foreign Affairs
    • August 27, 2026
  • Commentary

    Defense

    The Risks of Downplaying China’s Military

    Deterrence can succeed, and continued U.S., Taiwanese, and allied investment can matter a great deal — if undertaken with the urgency the situation demands....

    By Tom Shugart

    • War on the Rocks
    • August 24, 2026

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