The data centers for the Genesis Mission and other national security programs will house vast amounts of sensitive data, intellectual property, and national infrastructure information. AI capabilities for U.S. national security cannot be denied, disrupted, or corrupted by a global competitor. That includes the materials, microchips, power, and equipment needed to generate AI. Panelists discuss critical supply chain gaps that must be addressed with on-shoring investments to protect access at scale.

Hon. Lucian Niemeyer (Moderator), CEO, Building Cyber Security; former Assistant

Ron Nussle, Jr., President, ICT Group Consulting

Maj. Gen. Edward L. Vaughn, USAF, Executive Director, Joint Production Accelerator Cell & Joint Rapid Acquisition Cell

• Energy load Is the central constraint on AI expansion, and compute density has fundamentally altered power requirements.
• Grid reliability and reserve capacity are structural vulnerabilities, but behind-the-meter generation offers tactical flexibility.
• Nuclear expansion and micro-reactors are potential long-term energy solutions.
• National classification of data centers by function and strategic planning are necessary.
• Infrastructure buildout faces land constraints and public opposition.
• State-level moratoriums on data center construction introduce deployment uncertainty.
• Research and scientific centers are key to global competitiveness.