WHITEFISH, MT (February 10, 2026) — The Montana Intelligence Summit has partnered with the Lobo Institute to launch the Whitefish Security Summit (WSS), a new practitioner-led forum focused on the evolving intersection of intelligence, special operations, and global security strategy.

Founded by cyber warfare researcher Jeffrey Caruso and jointly developed with Lobo Institute co-founders Michael “Mick” Mulroy, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense and retired CIA paramilitary officer, and Eric “Olly” Oehlerich, a retired Navy SEAL officer and former DEVGRU commander, WSS is designed as a closed, invitation-focused gathering for senior professionals across the intelligence, military, diplomatic, and policy communities.

Unlike large public conferences, WSS operates on a curated “anti-conference” model that prioritizes off-the-record discussion and peer-to-peer exchange. Topics will span kinetic conflict, cyber operations, emerging technologies, and the strategic integration of autonomous systems.
“Our intent is to create a venue where experienced operators and policymakers can engage in candid, cross-domain dialogue,” said Mulroy and Oehlerich. “Serious security challenges require environments that support trust and practical problem-solving.”

The transition to the Whitefish Security Summit will occur following the Montana Intelligence Summit on April 2–3, 2026. Organizers plan to expand WSS into a year-round platform for collaboration, positioning it as a practitioner-driven counterpart to established forums such as the Aspen Security Forum and the Munich Security Conference.

“This partnership allows us to build a permanent hub for high-level security dialogue in the American West,” said Caruso. “We’re focused on substance, access, and operational relevance.”

About the Principals
Jeffrey Caruso, Founder: A veteran cyber warfare researcher and author of Inside Cyber Warfare. He has briefed the CIA, DIA, FBI, and the Chief of Naval Operations, and is a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard.

Eric "Olly" Oehlerich, Lobo Institute: A retired Navy SEAL Officer and former Commanding Officer of DEVGRU (Squadron 2). He specializes in Tier 1 R&D and the integration of high-fidelity sensor technology.

Michael “Mick” P. Mulroy, Lobo Institute: Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East and retired CIA Paramilitary Operations Officer. He is a retired U.S. Marine and National Security Analyst for ABC News.

About the Whitefish Security Summit
The Whitefish Security Summit (WSS) is a premier forum fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors. With strictly limited attendance, WSS provides a secure environment for world-leading experts to address complex global threats through a Montana lens.

About the Lobo Institute
The Lobo Institute is a national security–focused organization dedicated to strengthening collaboration between military, intelligence, and policy communities. Founded by experienced special operations and intelligence professionals, the Institute develops programs, partnerships, and public engagement initiatives aimed at improving strategic understanding and operational effectiveness in an evolving global security environment.