TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 is gearing up to spotlight AI’s critical role in national defense with an can’t-miss panel, AI Defense. Over 10,000 startup and VC leaders will gather in San Francisco from October 27-29 to tackle how AI is changing security, defense, and infrastructure fast.
The AI Defense panel features top names from government and venture. Dr. Kathleen Fisher from DARPA’s Information Innovation Office is shaping next-gen defense AI. Sri Chandrasekar, Point72 Ventures partner and ex-In-Q-Tel leader, brings sharp insight on frontier defense tech. Justin Fanelli, Navy CTO, covers cybersecurity and digital transformation at one of government’s toughest gigs.
The conversation will cover AI’s rapid evolution in autonomous systems, decision intelligence, and battlefield tech — all while juggling ethics, safety, and oversight. 
This is essential for startups working with defense, cybersecurity, and AI infrastructure. The panel will focus on balancing innovation and control and exploring multibillion-dollar AI opportunities in national security.
Panelists include:
- Dr. Kathleen Fisher, DARPA’s Info Innovation Office director
- Sri Chandrasekar, Point72 Ventures managing partner
- Justin Fanelli, CTO, Department of the Navy
The session runs on the AI Stage. Exact time TBA but passes are on sale now. Prices rise after July.
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 takes place at Moscone West, San Francisco. Over 10,000 industry leaders will gather to define AI’s role in defense and beyond.
Grab your pass and catch this pivotal discussion live.
