A Skeptic’s View of the Hype Machine and Business Model of Neo-Defense Tech

Neo-defense tech companies like Anduril are receiving praise for their model of building cheap, mass-produced weapons, a concept heavily influenced by the war in Ukraine. This narrative suggests that a focus on inexpensive drones and asymmetric capabilities can counter more expensive military hardware. However, this perspective is challenged by the argument that cheaper is not always better and that lessons from Ukraine may not be applicable to a potential conflict with China. The success in Ukraine also relies on sophisticated, expensive Western systems, not just cheap drones. Finally, the business models and incentives of these new defense firms warrant scrutiny beyond their patriotic claims.