Advancing Rapid Defense Innovation Symposium (ARDIS) 2027

The next edition will take place September 15, 2027, Ridgecrest, California. More information to follow..

Advancing Rapid Defense Innovation Symposium (ARDIS) is a two-day, leadership-centric event focused on the state of U.S. defense innovation and the Department of War’s evolving acquisition approach.

Held in Ridgecrest, California, from September 15-16, 2026, the event convenes a senior-level leaders’ forum for outcomes-driven dialogue on the state of U.S. defense innovation.

The program is built around lessons observed in ongoing conflicts, including how low-cost mass can challenge exquisite systems, the impact of drone warfare on the economics of air defense, and how software and data fusion increasingly determine combat tempo. It also reflects how resilient industrial capacity is now inseparable from battlefield advantage.

Produced in collaboration with NAVAIR, NAWCWD, and NAVSEA, the event includes a strong emphasis on collaboration with NAWCWD China Lake.

Image credit: Advancing Rapid Defense Innovation Symposium (ARDIS)

When is the Event?

ARDIS will take place on September 15-16, 2026.

Themes

ARDIS is built around lessons observed in current conflicts and defense innovation efforts. Discussions include how affordable autonomous systems are being fielded, alongside efforts to strengthen air and missile defense and protect command-and-control networks.

The event also addresses how capabilities can be rapidly updated under pressure, as well as the role of the U.S. innovation ecosystem, including partnerships that move technologies from lab to line at speed.

This includes approaches aligned with the Department of War’s transitional acquisition framework, such as Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), dual-sourcing, and rapid fielding.

What’s On?

The symposium delivers an intensive two-day program for senior-level participants. Sessions include engagement with NAWCWD, NAVAIR, and NAVSEA, supporting alignment with their needs.
Participants include government and military leaders, defense contractors and industry innovators, academia and research institutions, and venture and investment representatives, as well as stakeholders involved in public-private partnerships and federal innovation programs.

The program includes discussions on artificial intelligence, autonomy, and cybersecurity, alongside sessions addressing intellectual property and research. Participants will also engage in discussions and collaboration across government, industry, and research, supporting connections within the defense innovation ecosystem. Conversations will also focus on supporting the warfighter and securing next steps toward pilot programs, OTA agreements, and production.

“Artificial intelligence and autonomy play a vital role in information warfare by enabling decision advantage and enhancing the ability of human-machine teaming. The Department of the Navy seeks AI-driven solutions for real-time data analysis and automated decision-making to enhance operational effectiveness,”
Justin Fanelli, Department of the Navy Chief Technology Officer

Where is The Event?

Kerr McGee Community Center
100 California Avenue
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
United States

Continental breakfast, coffee, and lunch will be provided for attendees.

To learn more about Advancing Rapid Defense Innovation Symposium (ARDIS) 2027, to register to attend or exhibit, please click below .