DSI Releases Agenda for 2026 Military Vehicle Systems Summit

The Defense Strategies Institute (DSI) has released the agenda for its sixth annual Military Vehicle Systems Summit, set to take place in 2026. This event, designed to explore the future of ground vehicle systems, will convene senior leaders, engineers, and acquisition professionals from various military services, industry, and academia.

The summit aims to address critical issues in the development and modernization of military vehicles in the context of great-power competition. Key topics to be discussed include preparing the warfighter and maneuver formations for high-intensity ground combat, operationalizing unmanned ground vehicles for mission autonomy, and digital engineering the next generation of ground combat vehicles. Additionally, the summit will delve into designing, delivering, and sustaining the future ground fleet, as well as accelerating innovation and exploring the Army’s pathway for innovation and technology.

Confirmed keynote speakers include MG Colin Tuley, Commanding General of the United States Army Maneuver Center of Excellence and Fort Benning, and Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Maneuver Ground at Fort Benning, Georgia; Jesse Tolleson, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics and Technology); and Stephen Bowdren, Executive Director of PAE, USMC. Other notable speakers include BG Anthony Gibbs, Capability Portfolio Executive for Mission Autonomy; Dr. Peter Schihl, Senior Technical Expert at the Ground Vehicle Power and Mobility Laboratory, Ground Vehicle Systems Center, U.S. Army DEVCOM; and COL Christopher Masson, Commander of the Red River Army Depot.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in panel discussions, fireside chats, and dedicated networking time. The summit is designed to foster collaboration and dialogue among stakeholders, aiming to enhance the conception, design, and sustainability of next-generation ground platforms. The event is expected to attract a diverse audience, including senior leaders, engineers, and acquisition professionals from across the military services, industry, and academia.