Engineering the Future with Keoki Jackson: Space, AI, and Defense

The Legacy of Aerospace Innovation

Keoki Jackson, the CTO of Lockheed Martin, discusses the company's profound history and its ongoing commitment to solving the world's most daunting engineering challenges. From iconic aircraft like the SR-71 Blackbird to the sophisticated F-35 Lightning II, the conversation underscores the culture of mission success that drives the Skunk Works approach to aerospace engineering.

Advancing Human Space Exploration

Driven by a deep passion for the stars, Jackson explores the near-term goals of returning to the Moon and the long-term ambition of colonizing Mars. The discussion highlights:

• The development of the Orion spacecraft for deep space missions.
• The mission of OSIRIS-REx to asteroid Bennu using autonomous collection techniques.
• The integration of "Alexa-style" AI, such as the Maya assistant, to support future astronauts in deep space.

The Role of Autonomous Systems and AI

As systems reach unprecedented levels of complexity, Jackson emphasizes that AI and autonomy are essential for both safety and efficiency. He categorizes the levels of autonomy ranging from human-in-the-loop oversight to full automation, stressing the importance of verifiability and predictability.

"I believe that autonomy and more and more AI enabled autonomy is going to be in everything that Lockheed Martin develops and fields."

Safety and Ethical Design

Addressing critical concerns, Jackson explains the challenges of balancing rapid innovation with strict safety cultures. In military and defense, such as the Aegis and THAAD programs, he describes strict adherence to policy and the imperative to keep humans in control of ethical decisions.

Strategic Defense and the Future

Jackson reflects on the reality of geopolitical tensions, including the return to great power competition. He argues that advanced technology, including hypersonics and robust strategic deterrence, is vital for national safety while acknowledging the evolving complexity of cyber-warfare as a new strategic threat.