Autonomous weapons, decentralized strategy, and startup speed—this isn’t the future of defense, it’s happening now. At TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, Ethan Thornton, CEO and founder of Mach Industries, will take the stage to discuss how next-generation defense systems are being built from the ground up with AI at their core.
Ethan Thornton isn’t your typical defense industry leader. As the founder of Mach Industries, he launched the company out of MIT in 2023 with a bold mission: to develop decentralized, cutting-edge defense technologies capable of safeguarding global freedom. Leading one of the most ambitious startups in the field, Thornton brings a fresh perspective to an industry long dominated by legacy players. His work combines advanced hardware, software, and autonomy to redefine national defense in an era of rapid change.
Mach Industries represents a new wave of companies proving that AI-native startups can play a pivotal role in national security. This session will explore what that looks like in practice—from autonomous systems and edge computing to dual-use technologies that bridge commercial innovation and military capability. Thornton will share insights on navigating funding, regulation, and ethical responsibilities at the intersection of technology and geopolitics.
AI isn’t just powering chatbots—it’s reshaping global power dynamics. With rising global tensions and accelerating investment in defense technology, this conversation provides a timely examination of how artificial intelligence is transforming security, strategy, and sovereignty.