How a Cold War Supercomputer Reshaped Air Defense

Explore the fascinating history of the Whirlwind computer, developed at MIT in the 1950s, and its pivotal role in shaping the SAGE system for defending the United States against Cold War bomber threats. Delve into the intersection of computing, military strategy, and technological innovation as Guy Fedorkow, an experienced engineer and system architect, presents this captivating TEDxMIT talk. Gain insights into how this early supercomputer revolutionized air defense systems and influenced the development of modern computing. Discover the lasting impact of this groundbreaking technology on infrastructure security, trusted computing, and the evolution of computer architecture. Learn about the collaborative efforts between academic institutions, military organizations, and technology companies that drove these advancements, and understand their significance in the context of Cold War tensions and technological progress.

How a Cold War supercomputer reshaped air defense | Guy Fedorkow | TEDxMIT