E40: Venture, AI, and the Defense Industry with Joe Lonsdale of 8VC, Josh Wolfe of Lux Capital, and Matt Steckman of Anduril

This episode of Turpentine VC is a live panel from the Hill and Valley Forum held in May 2024 on the pivotal role of novel technologies and AI in modern warfare and defense strategies, and how venture is helping rebuild the capital formation of the industrial base. Senator Mike Rounds moderates Joe Lonsdale, Managing Partner at 8VC, Josh Wolfe of Lux Capital, and Matthew Steckman, CRO at Anduril to discuss the novel military applications of the technologies they are working on and the shift in culture at the DoD that could usher in a new future of warfare. Source better deals with the most complete startup database: https://bit.ly/harmonicturpentine

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This season brings together Silicon Valley innovators and lawmakers to address the most pressing problems: the techno-economic war with China, AI regulations, and the next space race. Hear new episodes with Alex Karp, Jacob Helberg, Alexandr Wang, Jack Clark, Roelof Botha, Delian Asparouhov, and Vinod Khosla.

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This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

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If you like Turpentine VC, check out our show The 10x Capital Podcast with David Weisburd, where David talks to the investors behind the investors: https://10xcapitalpodcast.com/.

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LINKS:

https://www.thehillandvalleyforum.com/

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(01:32) Introductions and Expectations: Panelists Share Their Vision

(01:53) Spotlight on Defense Innovation: From AI to Aerospace

(06:46) The Future of Warfare: AI, Autonomy, and New Technologies

(09:23) Venture Capital and Defense: Bridging the Gap for Battlefield Superiority

(12:11) AI in Defense: Opportunities, Challenges, and the Path Forward

(14:50) Sponsor: Harmonic | Squad

(17:20) Australia's Defense Modernization, With the Help of a US company, OSUC

(28:14) Leveraging AI Beyond Weapon Systems: Healthcare and Maintenance

(31:29) Closing Remarks