The year 2023 is a big one for the U.S. Army, as a number of its modernization priorities will be delivered to soldiers for either testing or use in the field, including systems in the long-range precision fires, next-generation combat vehicle and synthetic training environment categories. The Army is also focused on the next stages of Project Convergence, its piece of the joint all-domain command and control initiative. Other top priorities include continuing to reshape the Army through recruiting, retention and training initiatives. In this panel discussion, Defense News Conference will focus on how the Army is meeting both its future goals and its current needs as it continues to carry out its modernization strategy.

The Navy is focused on readiness, sustainment and digital transformation, as it continues to implement its Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program and Project Overmatch initiatives. In addition, the service is revamping its fleet to meet the challenges of future conflicts while maintaining control of the seas through its aircraft carrier battle groups. In this panel discussion, Defense News Conference will look at how the Navy is meeting its goals for both current and future needs while overhauling how it builds, repairs and operates its fleet.

The Air Force’s 4+1 strategy will streamline its fleet of aircraft — including the recently unveiled B-21 Raider — to focus on those that can provide the offensive, defensive and support capabilities needed for future conflicts, including the B-21 bomber. But aircraft are only part of the puzzle, as the service is working on hypersonic weapons, implementing its advanced battle management system to meet its needs for the joint all-domain command and control initiative, and the ground based strategic deterrent program. In this panel discussion, Defense News Conference will explore how these programs are aimed at ensuring the Air Force is not restricted by aging aircraft and outdated operating strategies as it prepares for potential conflicts with near-peer competitors.

As Space Force continues to ramp up operations, its priorities for 2023 are focused on missile defense warning systems and protecting the U.S. satellite fleet. As Russia and China pursue their own space strategies, including the capability to shoot down or disrupt satellites in orbit, the U.S. must protect against interference with the satellite-driven capabilities it relies upon, including GPS and early warning of ballistic missile launches. In this panel discussion, Defense News Conference will examine the state of America’s newest service branch as it builds the infrastructure and personnel base it needs to meet its goals.

In early 2023, the U.S. Marine Corps unveiled the latest piece of Force Design 2030, laying out strategic plans to transform and educate the force via technological advancements and shifted focus. With more attention paid to the critical thinking skills that bolster soldiers’ abilities to make critical battlefield decisions, Marines can expect to see some key changes and cultural shifts in the long term. The Marines are changing the way they do things, and are ushering in a new 39th commandant this year. What priority-driven changes can we expect from the Marine Corps in 2023 and leading up to 2030? In this panel discussion, Defense News Conference will examine the latest Marine Corps advances and strides, and what takes place in 2023 in support of their longer-term goals and priorities.

As war in Ukraine wages on into 2023, the United States and its NATO allies have agreed to send out modern battle tanks to strengthen Kyiv’s defenses against Russian forces and help reclaim taken territory. With the provision of both M1 Abrams tanks from the U.S. and Leopard 2 battle tanks from Germany and other European countries, some western officials believe this to be a turning point in the war in Ukraine, though unique challenges lay ahead. What implications or consequences are European NATO allies facing as a result of the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine? In this panel discussion, Defense News Conference will examine the latest happening in Ukraine and ally countries throughout Europe, and what must happen in 2023 to ensure their triumph against major aggressors and adversaries like Russia.

In 2023, House Armed Services Chairman Mike Rogers, R-Ala., faces the challenge of ensuring the defense budget positions the U.S. favorably against increasingly capable adversaries – as well as dealing with issues like space-based capabilities, supply chain security, defense innovation and domestic access to critical minerals. What insights do congressional leaders have about their top military priorities, in both the short- and long-term? In this panel discussion, Defense News Conference will examine the latest perspectives and views from the Hill that affect military and industry decision-makers.