It is all systems go at the Global Aerospace Summit.
The second day of the three-day premier gathering of defense, aviation, and space leaders delivered groundbreaking insights on the future of aerospace.
Technology’s role in addressing evolving threats emerged as a key theme throughout the panels. Industry and government representatives discussed new capabilities in defense and aviation, with particular focus on AI, workforce development, and maintaining U.S. leadership.
Whether you were in the room, catching up, or following along with us on X, LinkedIn, or Instagram, here’s your recap of the standout moments, guiding themes, and mission-critical insights from day two.
Responding to an Evolving Threat Environment
The morning kicked off with an insightful conversation about America’s defense capabilities in an evolving threat environment, featuring Rep. Dale Strong (R-AL), Co-Chair of the House Golden Dome Caucus, and Phil Jasper, President of Raytheon, RTX.
Jasper noted the myriad threats facing the United States—from low-flying UAVs to weapons from space—and the critical role technology will play in responding.
“There’s no one defensive system in integrated air missile defense that can handle that complete range of threats,” he said. “And so from our perspective, from a technology standpoint, is, how do you build a layered system to deal with those close in threats?”
Rep. Strong shared his strong support for bolstering America’s defense capabilities through consistent, full-year appropriations bills and sending consistent demand signals to the industrial base.
“What we’re doing is trying to get people in Congress to understand you can’t staff for [inconsistent orders]. Let’s be consistent in our orders and let’s make it work for everybody,” said Rep. Strong.
Groundbreaking Technology Enhancing Capabilities
Industry leaders dove deeper into new technology driving the aerospace industry forward.
Paul Touw, CEO of Otto Aerospace, shared how their next-generation aircraft will leverage full laminar flow technology, which helps reduce emissions for commercial and defense aviation.
“If we can get aircraft to behave in laminar flow it represents an enormous potential reduction in the energy required to sustain flight,” said Touw.