Mach Industries is shaking up defense with AI-powered autonomous weapons and decentralized strategies. CEO Ethan Thornton pitched the future of warfare at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025’s AI Stage, spotlighting how his startup blends hardware, software, and autonomy for next-gen defense tech.
Thornton, who founded Mach Industries out of MIT in 2023, is positioning the company against legacy defense giants by pushing AI-native systems designed to protect freedom globally.
The startup is part of a fresh crop proving AI startups have a seat at the national defense table. Their focus: autonomous systems, edge computing, and tech that crosses commercial and military uses. 
Thornton also tackled the messy overlap of funding, regulations, and geopolitics impacting AI in defense.
With defense tech investments surging amid global tensions, the role of AI in security and sovereignty is heating up fast.
Ethan Thornton stated at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025:
“The work we’re doing at Mach Industries is about rethinking defense from the ground up. Decentralized, AI-powered, and agile — that’s how we safeguard freedom in an uncertain world.”
“We’re navigating funding, regulation, and the responsibility that comes with building tech at the intersection of technology and geopolitics.”
“This isn’t just about weapons — it’s about reshaping global power dynamics through AI.”
Save $675 on registration before prices jump next week to join 10,000+ leaders shaping AI tech’s next era at Disrupt 2025.
More on Mach Industries here.
