TMA BlueTech and its regional partners are bringing together leaders from Taiwan and San Diego's defense, maritime, technology, academic, and national security communities for the San Diego-Taiwan Security Initiative, a two-day program focused on strengthening connections and creating opportunities for continued strategic collaboration.
The October 8 public program will feature Admiral Lee Hsi-Min (Ret.), one of Taiwan's leading military strategists and the architect of the Overall Defense Concept (ODC), an asymmetric approach developed specifically around Taiwan's defense needs.
In Conversation with Admiral Lee Hsi-Min
Admiral Lee served as Taiwan's Chief of the General Staff from 2017 to 2019, the nation's highest-ranking military officer and a key military advisor to the President. His previous leadership roles also include Chief of Navy and Vice Minister of Defense.
During his military career, Admiral Lee introduced the Overall Defense Concept, which emphasizes asymmetric capabilities and innovative approaches tailored to Taiwan's unique defense requirements. His 2022 book, The Overall Defense Concept: An Asymmetric Approach to Taiwan's Defense, further developed this strategic framework.
Today, Admiral Lee remains active in academia and defense policy. He is an adjunct professor at National Chengchi University's International Doctoral Program in Asia-Pacific Studies, directs the Center for Peace and Security at the Taipei School of Economics and Political Science Foundation, and serves as a strategic advisor to the Institute for National Defense and Security Research.
On October 8, Admiral Lee will discuss the strategic thinking behind the Overall Defense Concept and the role of asymmetry and innovation in Taiwan's approach to defense. His remarks will be followed by an open Q&A discussion, providing attendees an opportunity to engage directly with one of Taiwan's most influential contemporary defense strategists.
Connecting Strategy, Technology and Innovation
For San Diego's defense and technology community, the program offers an opportunity to better understand the strategic and operational context shaping Taiwan's defense priorities.
The conversation will be particularly relevant to defense and maritime technology companies, investors, researchers, government and military stakeholders, and others working at the intersection of national security, emerging technology and the Indo-Pacific.
Event Details
Thursday, October 8, 2026
4:30–7:00 PM
University of San Diego, @Warren Hall (inside Mother Rosalie Hill Hall)
The program is open to the public. Advance registration is required.
TMA Member Benefit: TMA BlueTech members receive $50 off the regular private-sector registration price, reducing registration to $75. For more information about membership, inquire at info@tmabluetech.org.
Part of the San Diego-Taiwan Security Initiative
The October 8 program is part of a broader two-day initiative connecting Taiwan with San Diego's defense and national security ecosystem. Programming includes technology and test-range demonstrations, local defense industry visits, the October 8 public conversation and reception, and a private San Diego-Taiwan Defense Industry Roundtable on October 9.
Convened by: TMA BlueTech
October 8 Program Hosted by: The La Jolla Center for Pacific Strategy
In Partnership with: San Diego Military Advisory Council (SDMAC)
With Support from: Prebys Foundation
