Join current DOD officials, defense policy experts, and seasoned government affairs professionals for a conversation focused on how the Department of Defense (DOD) is shaping the next generation of public-private partnerships to support the rapid development and deployment of medical countermeasures. This session will explore the legal and contractual frameworks that enable industry engagement, such as Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) and FAR-based contracts, as well as the intersection between DOD and BARDA on regulatory and acquisition strategies. Panelists will also discuss emerging capability gaps, strategic priorities in the health defense and CBRN mission space, and the outlook for collaboration on emerging platform technologies. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how to navigate complex contracting environments, engage with DOD stakeholders, and align innovations with mission-critical defense health needs.