The Defense Science Board (DSB) concluded its Winter Quarterly Session in a series of closed meetings — Feb. 6 – 8 — focusing on critical matters of national defense. Led by Elizabeth Kowalski, the Designated Federal Officer (DFO) and DSB executive director, along with Dr. Eric Evans, the DSB chair, the gathering also marked the commencement of the 2024 Summer Study on Advanced Capabilities for Potential Future Conflict.
During the Winter Quarterly on Feb. 6, the agenda included discussions with several senior Department of Defense (DoD) officials. The DSB's study products covering a wide range of topics were presented for board deliberations and approval. Evans highlighted that over the past 20 months, the DSB successfully completed 11 studies. These studies delved into crucial areas such as DoD dependencies on critical infrastructure; position, navigation, and timing; commercial space system access; and microelectronics; among other topics.
The 2024 Summer Study, which was the focus of the last two days of the meeting, explored new strategies, capabilities, and technologies geared towards countering both current and future threats. Expert panelists and senior officials from the Pentagon, including Heidi Shyu, Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering and the Board's sponsor, provided insights during the session.
"The study brings together participants with diverse experience from across the DoD community," said Shyu. "As the DSB continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of defense capabilities, these quarterly sessions and summer studies serve as critical forums for collaboration, analysis, and strategic planning in the interest of national security."
Evans also expressed optimism about the Summer Study, emphasizing the importance of staying ahead in an ever-evolving landscape of defense challenges.
"The study aims to address emerging threats with innovative solutions and to ensure the United States maintains technological and strategic superiority," he said.
