In this episode, I sit down with Perry Boyle for the second time, two years after our first conversation about his efforts to build Ukraine's domestic defence industry. Much has changed since then, with Ukraine emerging as one of the world's most innovative defence ecosystems and developing technologies that other countries are increasingly looking to learn from.

Perry reflects on how this transformation has changed his own perspective, and how MITS Capital has evolved alongside it. We explore the rapidly changing nature of warfare, from drones and autonomous systems to counter-drone technology, missile defence, and the growing importance of industrial capacity and resilient supply chains.

We also discuss what Perry sees as the three interconnected wars being fought around Ukraine: the war on the battlefield, the broader confrontation between democracy and autocracy, and the struggle to transform Ukraine itself. Finally, Perry reflects on what the past two years have taught him personally about purpose, agency, and the power of an outsider to make a difference.

Ultimately, this is a conversation about how a once-contrarian idea became reality, and what it means to keep adapting when the world around you is changing faster than expected.

Recorded on 13 August 2026.

Connect with Perry on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/perryboyle.

Instagram: @at.the.coalface

And don’t forget to subscribe to At the Coalface for new episodes every two weeks.

Help us produce more episodes by becoming a supporter. Your subscription will go towards paying our hosting and production costs. Supporters get the opportunity to join behind the scenes during recordings, updates about the podcast, and my deep gratitude!

Support the show