For world-changer Ethan Thornton, CEO and founder of Mach Industries, that’s all about to change at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025. He will provide examples AI is already revolutionizing a national defense. This unique event brings more than 10,000 startup and venture capital leaders together. It holds promise for a wider reshaping of the defense tech industry, which historically has suffered from an over-reliance on legacy players. As a native AI startup, Thornton and Mach Industries are able to approach this traditionally stale sector with a new mindset.
Scheduled for the AI Stage at the conference, Thornton’s speech will focus on “next-gen defense built with AI at its core.” His goal is to expand the conversation on how emerging advanced technologies can improve both the effectiveness of security policies and the efficiency of defense structures. Thornton’s one of the heads of perhaps the most ambitious of these space startups. His thought-provoking perspectives will be of great interest to an audience looking to understand new approaches and ideas in the realm of national security.
Navigating Funding and Regulation
In addition to his keynote, Thornton will dive deep into the landscape of raising money for def-tech startups. His hope is to impart some wisdom he’s learned while treading the fiscal waters. It makes life difficult for those just entering the field. Thornton’s knowledge of funding dynamics is especially important for startups looking to level the playing field with industry incumbents with deep well of resources.
Beyond funding, he will need to confront the regulatory hurdles that have always trailed along behind innovation in defense tech. Innovation and compliance must go hand in hand as our innovation economy comes upon new technologies. Thornton’s wisdom should provide invaluable guidance to entrepreneurs and investors paltering with the same challenges.
Responsibility in Tech and Geopolitics
Thornton will build upon this architecture of responsibility by assessing the intersection of technology and geopolitics. As AI technologies become more ubiquitous, national defense strategies and ethical implications come to the forefront. That’s what he plans to do on the second panel, talking about how firms like Mach Industries can tackle these complicated subjects and keep letting the creative juices flow.
This is why the conversation around tech’s role in geopolitics is so timely and important. As countries face new and emerging challenges, the onus to ensure that AI is used for good, not evil, rests upon all of us. Thornton’s commitment to addressing these issues highlights Mach Industries’ dedication to creating a positive impact on national security.