Stephen Rodriguez

Missile Technology Control Regime (#MTCR) news… Key phrase: “The NSM directs the interagency to provide increased flexibility for case-by-case review and facilitate support for certain MTCR Category I military missiles, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), and Space Launch Vehicle (SLV) systems to certain partners with strong export control systems.” If you’re a space company, this interests you: “In support of the U.S. Space Priorities Framework (USSPF) and the promotion of international cooperation in space, and in accordance with the MTCR Guidelines, transfers of MTCR Category I SLV related commodities, software, and technology will be considered on a case-by-case basis for select and vetted partner space programs and participation in international space programs, whether such programs are governmental or commercial in nature.” ****** Not sure I can assess much from the fact sheet, as the results are always seen in the implemention. #MTCR issues are tough, especially given the technologies involved. But what is true is that the strategic environment is very different now than when the #MTCR was originally introduced. That means we need to adjust our regulatory systems - including the #MTCR - at the speed of the threat. There’s much more work to do on #MTCR issues, especially for America’s closest allies. #MTCR #exportcontrols #AUKUS https://lnkd.in/eC9Qg52N

33

2 Comments

Does the potential rigidity of the IRM&CM process (AJP 2.7) apply to rapidly changing battlespaces? Contemporary warfare demands immediate responsiveness and flexibility, posing challenges to traditional ISR workflows that may take days or weeks to develop. To address this, here are some key actions to enhance ISR capabilities: - **Real-Time Adjustments**: Incorporate mechanisms for real-time adjustments within the IRM&CM process to quickly revise collection plans and re-task ISR assets based on immediate operational needs and intelligence updates. - **Shorter Planning Cycles**: Implement shorter, iterative planning cycles for more frequent updates and revisions to the collection plan. - **Leveraging Advanced Technologies**: Utilize AI, machine learning algorithms, and automation to process data quickly, identify patterns, and provide actionable intelligence in near real-time. Other strategies include empowering field units, establishing forward-deployed ISR cells, investing in real-time communication networks, utilizing integrated command and control systems, and deploying flexible ISR platforms. Additionally, conducting frequent training exercises and scenario-based simulations are vital to prepare ISR personnel for dynamic environments. While the traditional IRM&CM process offers a structured approach to ISR operations, adapting it to the fast-paced nature of contemporary warfare is crucial. These measures can enhance NATO's ISR capabilities, ensuring better support for rapidly changing battlespaces.

10

Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Policy Jeffrey Nadaner writes that we should reauthorize but also modernize the Defense Production Act (DPA). Among his recommendations: Use loan guarantees to expand investment in the industrial base. "Loan guarantees can be the cheapest yet most effective way to attract private sector investment... This approach retains private sector entrepreneurial initiative and decision-making rather than have the government pick winners." More adoption of commercial technology. "Break up the oligopoly of traditional aerospace and defense contractors by facilitating the entry of commercial technology providers who have been so effective in space launch, unmanned/autonomous systems, and software." Automatically apply FAST 41 authorities to streamline permitting processes for infrastructure development in the defense industrial base. Implement "guardrails" to make sure the DPA is used for defense and not as a "catchall tool for an administration's priorities." #defenseindustry  https://lnkd.in/dNncQpMA 

13

Good morning from Geneva and the tenth Conference of State Parties for The Arms Trade Treaty. The Aerospace Industries Association is here as the representative of the U.S. aerospace and defense industry as signatory states continue to discuss the implemention of the ATT. CSP10’s focus has been on interagency cooperation, and we are pleased to be here to offer an industry perspective as a partner and stakeholder in that cooperation. #ATT #exportcontrols #defensetrade

79

1 Comment

The end of any presidential administration brings a flurry of regulatory activity, and the Biden Administration is no different. For the Aerospace Industries Association, responding to pending regulations impacting the U.S. aerospace and defense industry is a critical task. First out of the gate: rules governing exports related to the development of international standards. Riveting, I know (but important!). The TL;DR version of this issue is this: information provided to international standards making bodies could be seen as something that falls under U.S. export control rules. This impacts AIA's work with International Civil Aviation Organization - ICAO, who sets standards for global civil aviation (in things like CO2 emissions, engine noise, etc.). ICAO also governs the three-letter airport codes. Working with the U.S. Department of Commerce, we were able to final a regulatory mechanism that allowed for continued information sharing with international standards bodies without the need for licenses for exports (because data can be an export). It allows the U.S. to maintain its leadership position in standards-making discussions around the world. Lots more to come - regulatory season is here! #exportcontrols #EAR #standards #aerospace #defense #aviation

37

1 Comment

Thanks for the NewSpace Nexus Sadler Report shout-out by Mike French of the newly formed Space Policy Group! "Sign-up for the excellent newsletters from Space News, Payload, CNBC, and the Sadler Report." For more information, check out this page!

22

Speed of relevance across multiple domains of the organisation activities, processes and procedures; “conditio si ne qua non” for effective fielding of EDTs…

7

1 Comment

For space, here's what Colin Demarest of Axios predicts for 2025: "Elon Musk, Trump's Space Force appreciation and smaller firms supported by speedy commercial launches will keep the U.S. slightly ahead in the space race." - https://lnkd.in/efxxFwJR As for NewSpace Nexus in 2025, Casey Anglada DeRaad, CEO and Founder, said in a recent interview with Matthew Narvaiz of Alburquerque Journal, "Other states are seeing our impact and are proactively reaching out to us to expand our NewSpace co-innovation ecosystem to their regions for collective benefit and impact." - https://lnkd.in/eScNVC6K

13

Nicholas Nelson, Senior Fellow for Emerging Tech & Policy at CEPA and is a Partner at MD One Ventures. Andrew Stiles, advisor on emerging technologies as a management consultant for nearly a decade. Kyra Terenzio, Management consultant specialising in emerging technology at a leading professional services firm. "Domain awareness is an ongoing challenge in countries with large Arctic land masses such as Alaska, where strained connectivity, power access, and extreme weather all hinder unmanned systems. NASA’s drone, Vanilla, flew for six hours in the Arctic totaling over 130 miles. Unique technology such as its internal heating system and anti-icing coating, if adapted to other robotic systems, could help make them more resilient, durable, and interoperable within the Arctic. Additionally, space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (SB-ISR) sensors are critical. However, satellites historically struggle with connectivity, signal fidelity, and resolution quality due to snowfall, cloud coverage, wind, and precipitation. To tackle these, Canada funded the Enhanced Satellite Communication Project – Polar (ESCP-P), which will enable narrowband and wideband satellite communications including beyond line of sight. Polar-orbiting satellites, and the infrastructure to launch them, are also increasingly vital. Russia launched its Arktika-M satellite in December, the second of nine it plans to send into orbit by 2026. The seven NATO countries in the High North will need to expand their own space-based and ground-based communications, such as durable and portable 5G systems and polar-orbit satellites, to provide ubiquitous, rapid data transmission for NATO activity in the High North."

7

Celebrating the U.S. Space Force and Charting Its Future Aperio Global, LLC is honored to attend tomorrow's Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) event, where thought leaders, policymakers, and innovators will come together to celebrate the achievements of the U.S. Space Force and discuss its future agenda. As a company at the forefront of Cyber, Data, and AI innovation, we are deeply committed to supporting stakeholders in the space domain, including the U.S. Space Force, Space Development Agency, NASA, and other commercial and international space partners. This event presents an incredible opportunity to engage in critical discussions about the challenges of a contested space environment and the innovations needed to navigate the future. We look forward to exploring how cutting-edge technologies—such as real-time data solutions, AI-driven insights, and enhanced cybersecurity—can empower the U.S. Space Force to solidify its role in global space leadership. Events like these reaffirm our dedication to delivering mission-centric, actionable insights with speed and precision to our customers in the space community. If you’re attending, let’s connect! Together, we can shape the next frontier of space innovation. #SpaceForce #CSIS #AperioGlobal #SpaceInnovation #MissionFocused #AccretiveImpact #SolveForNext

18

Today’s luncheon of the American Defense Industry Forum focused on the critical importance of the Defence Production Action Plan, how NATO can provide a consolidated demand signal to industry and upcoming high visibility projects. Standardization, Interoperability and Data Sharability kept coming up throughout the conversations. Yes, call me biased, but this is exactly where Janes can make a contribution. #Assured #OSINT #Marketforecasts #Equipmentdata It was great to be back at ADIF. https://lnkd.in/eZF-RtzM

81

6 Comments

With yesterday's #tariff news, let's talk about the #aerospace and #defense #trade environment. Takeaway: The U.S. aerospace and defense sector drives #export growth in #America. Period. Full stop. ➡️ Total U.S. aerospace and defense exports in 2023 rose to $135.9 billion, a 21% increase over 2022. ➡️ The U.S. aerospace and defense sector exports more than it imports - *by a long shot.* The positive trade balance for the sector in 2023 was almost $114 billion, a 24% increase from 2022. ➡️ Four of the top five import origin and export destination countries (Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom) are the same. We trade with our friends. America's aerospace and defense industry is the country's national security sector. It's unique in its products, delivers security at home and abroad, and remains one of the last metal-bending export sectors in #America. Aerospace Industries Association #trade #tariffs #aerospace #defense #removebeforeexport

41

1 Comment

#US military seeks commercial #space technology for strategic edge: The DoD wants to leverage commercial space technology to enhance #military capabilities, even as officials work to address longstanding challenges in government-industry collaboration https://lnkd.in/d4Dnpjt2

5

VC investors are more interested than ever in the defense industry and defense technology. It could mark a proper sea change moment for investing in global security. Jason Rathje from Office of Strategic Capital leads the DoD's focus "on strategic capital needs where public support is required to attract private investment..." and "we hope to license our first funds ... where we provide loans to investors to increase early-stage investment in these very difficult technology areas." Katherine Boyle general partner at Andreessen Horowitz has said, "I don't think I've ever seen such excitement, enthusiasm for investing in defense tech across a wide variety of investment firms. I think it's something that pretty much every serious … traditional Silicon Valley investment firm has at least one partner who's focused on aerospace or defense." Not that there aren't challenges. Nick Beim , partner at Venrock: "You'll have to deal with an existing set of economic players who kind of don't want a lot of competition and may be more interested in doing something themselves and partnering with a company that's got a ready solution. So, there are a lot of risks." #defensindustry #defensetech Tholus Capital Ajax Defense https://lnkd.in/eqN68VKV 

13

Israel Space Forum Activities Update: We kicked off the month with a dynamic presence at the Space Foundation’s 39th Space Symposium. Engaging with industry leaders, associations, and innovative minds, we explored avenues for enhanced global collaboration and unearthed promising opportunities for Israel within the global space arena. Looking ahead, our focus for the coming months is twofold. Firstly, we're dedicated to deepening our connections with companies, researchers, and individuals in the space sector. We're eager to understand your needs, how the Forum can support your endeavors, and how we can collectively enrich our space ecosystem. Reach out to [email protected] to schedule a meeting with me and share your insights! Secondly, we're diligently working on mapping out the existing landscape of industry and academia in the Israeli space sector. We aim to compile an updated, comprehensive database of the Israel Space Ecosystem, facilitating greater connectivity and collaboration within our vibrant community. Register here to become a member of Israel Space Forum: https://bit.ly/ISFregister Israel Space Agency | Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology IL | משרד החדשנות, המדע והטכנולוגיה | Israel Innovation Authority רשות החדשנות | Israeli High-Tech Association | Israel Export Institute מכון היצוא | Rakia Mission | Israel Space Forum | Startup Nation Central

57

2 Comments

ICYMI - The United States Department of Defense released a significant defense industrial base “Statement of Principles” at the International Institute for Strategic Studies Shanghai-La Dialogue today. Industrial base resiliency in the Indo-Pacific is a key enabler in any potential conflict. The “tyranny of distance” in the region means industrial base capability, capacity, and supply chain integration are more important than ever, demanding strategic-level attention from policymakers. We see that in the partner and ally focus of the U.S. National Defense Industrial Strategy (#NDIS). Today’s announcement is further evidence of the U.S. DoD leaning in on aligning industrial base considerations with the overall national security strategy. It’s very much welcome from U.S. industry. Indo-Pacific industrial base resiliency is built on a few key pillars: consistent regulatory structures and equal application of rules in aligned countries, freedom of movement for goods, services, and workforce that support industrial base growth, fair tax structures, access to regular funding and outside capital, and most of all, clear policy objectives from partner governments. It’s these type of things that allow U.S. and partner industries to build resiliency. In many ways, the commercial aerospace industrial base in the Indo-Pacific can and should lead the way in further strengthening the defense industrial base in the region. The Statement of Principles hat tips to that very notion. The intent in the Statement of Principles gives a good steer. It’s the “what” in this equation. Working with the U.S. DoD and partner governments, industry can deliver the “how”. That’s what we do best. #SLD24 #DIB #industrialbase #supplychain

29

2 Comments

If you're interested in commercial space systems and how we can better integrate them into military planning and requirements, you definitely don't want to miss out on this episode of The Elara Edge with Dr. Brad Tousley. Dr. Tousley shares some great insights in this episode through the lens of analyzing the Defense Science Board's recommendations on this topic. I'd love to know your thoughts on this topic as well. #MilitaryPlanning #CommercialSpaceSystems #TheElaraEdge

6

aiRadar Inc. in Canada has a Cognitive Adaptive (CA) millimeter Wave Phased Array Radar (CA-AESA Radar) to detect, track, classify, and identify NATO Class 1 Micro UAS and larger, providing the coordinates (range, bearing, elevation) of the UAS and UAS swarm such that interceptors may be launched to counter the threat. The mass is 3.15kg! Micro-Doppler analysis, the gold standard in radar target characterization will differentiate the hostile UAS/Swarm from natural targets such as birds as well as identifying specific types of UAS. The CA-AESA Radar uses artificial intelligence (AI) processing and optimization in a tight feedback loop enabling dynamic CA-AESA behavior to greatly improve target classification over traditional fixed-mode radars. The CA-AESA optimally allocates radar resources, beam steering to increase dwell time and follow maneuvering targets for micro-Doppler analysis, while simultaneously maintaining situational awareness over a large surveillance area, 90 degrees wide. aiRadar is currently researching Quantum Enhanced radar which will enhance the detect component by integrating ultra-low phase noise clocks to improve Signal Dependent Noise Ratio and improve detection/separation of smaller UAS within swarms of larger UAS by up to 10dB. We are working on an Interceptor with a cost commensurate with a small drone. Mary, you are absolutely right! NDIS states "this effort cannot be a Department of Defense-only solution, repeatedly emphasizing cooperation and coordination between the entire U.S. government, private industry, and international allies and partners." Accelerate and fund adoption! There is some catching up to be done here!!!

13

5 Comments