Peter Garvin•Vice Admiral, President, National Defense University
Executive Summary
Vice Admiral Peter Garvin, President of the National Defense University (NDU), discusses the institution's unique role in preparing senior military and civilian leaders for strategic challenges through a joint, all-of-government lens.
Professional Military Education (PME) faces challenges of resource constraints and talent management, but NDU is adapting by focusing its curriculum on practical application for national security, or 'education in order to fight and win'.
NDU is actively integrating emerging technologies, particularly AI, into its curriculum and research, spurred by a recent presidential executive order positioning senior military colleges as hubs for AI development.
The conversation highlights the belief that future conflicts could be existential for the U.S., underscoring the urgency of NDU's mission to develop leaders capable of navigating complex, high-stakes geopolitical environments.
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Concerns Raised
The potential for future wars to be existential for the United States.
The inherent tension in talent management between operational manning needs and sending top officers to PME.
Resource constraints on PME institutions that are simultaneously being asked to expand their curriculum.
The risk of being overtaken by technology if the defense establishment fails to adapt to innovations like AI.
Opportunities Identified
Leveraging NDU's unique position in Washington D.C. to provide a strategic, all-of-government educational experience.
Becoming a national hub for AI research and education, as mandated by a recent presidential executive order.
Partnering with industry to bring cutting-edge technological expertise into military classrooms and research centers.
Rapidly adapting PME curricula to stay relevant to the changing character of warfare and emerging geopolitical threats.