How Modular Computing Is Accelerating Modern Defense Technology
From Aerospace & Defense Technology by SAE Media Group
April 17, 2026 · 14 min · Season 14 · Episode 4
About this episode
Shaun Fischer discusses the impact of modular computing on modern defense technology and the capabilities of the THOR embedded computing chassis.
Modern defense platforms are evolving rapidly, with modularcomputing emerging as a key enabler of that transformation. On this episode of the Aerospace & Defense Technology podcast, Shaun Fischer, Director ofDevelopment and Open Systems Solutions at Leonardo DRS, discusses the company’s newly launched THOR —Tactical, High‑Performance Embedded Computing, OpenArchitecture, Rugged — embedded computing chassis and the new military applications it is designed to enable. THOR supports a broad range of compute payloads, including Intel®, Arm®, and NVIDIA®‑based single‑board computers; high‑performance GPUs for AI and machine‑learninginference; and RF and digital signal‑processing modules for electronic warfare and secure communications. Fischer also explains how the chassis aligns with the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), the open‑architecture initiative shaping the acquisition of next‑generation defense technologies. Sponsored by Smithers.
People in this episode
Guest: Shaun Fischer
Topics covered
- modular computing
- defense technology
- embedded systems
- military applications
- open architecture
- electronic warfare
Keywords
- modular computing
- defense platforms
- THOR
- open systems
- military technology
- AI
- machine learning
- electronic warfare
Sponsors
Smithers
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Leonardo DRS, Intel, Arm, NVIDIA
Products: THOR
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