Military Futures & Emerging Technology
Military futures is the discipline of thinking clearly about what future operating environments may require, how technology may change conflict and deterrence, and how leaders should prepare before the need becomes obvious.
Ross Coffman's topic, “The Technologies our Armed Forces Need,” is informed by his experience in military futures and his final Army assignment as Deputy Commander of United States Army Futures Command in Austin, Texas.
01Understanding the future force
The current homepage describes this topic as a look at potential evolutions for audiences interested in investing, science and technology, and research. It is informed by current events and technological breakthroughs, and it helps audiences think about the way ahead.
02Questions that frame the topic
What does a future force need to sense, decide, move, protect, and sustain? How do current events shape future requirements? How should leaders evaluate emerging technology without chasing every trend? And what should defense, research, technology, and investment audiences understand about the gap between invention and fielded capability?
03Why Ross Coffman fits this topic
Ross's military career included command at nearly every echelon, multiple deployments, and service in the generating force training large units for combat. His final assignment at Army Futures Command gives the topic a direct connection to future-force thinking and military innovation.
Ross speaks from prior service and professional experience. The topic does not suggest he represents Army Futures Command today or speaks on behalf of the U.S. Army.
What audiences leave with.
- A clearer definition of military futures and future-force requirements.
- A practical way to think about emerging technology in relation to mission needs.
- Insight into how current events and technological breakthroughs can shape planning.
- A better understanding of the leadership challenge behind innovation and adoption.
- A connection between Army Futures Command experience and broader organizational transformation.
Defense and national security audiences, public-sector leaders, technology companies, research institutions, academic audiences, investors, and science and technology communities.
Audience categories are indicative; final wording is confirmed before each engagement.
Frequently asked.
Thinking about future operating environments, technology, force requirements, and the capabilities armed forces may need to meet emerging challenges.
His final military assignment was Deputy Commander of United States Army Futures Command in Austin, Texas.
No. Army Futures Command is part of his military background; the topic does not imply current Army office or official endorsement.