We solve operational problems identified by the joint force and integrate into the Department's innovation strategy. We field unmanned mass, pairing persistent ISR with attritable strike in our Autonomous Warfare portfolio. We close the loop in Kill Web, rapidly scaling the sensors, networks, and decision systems enabled by commercial space advances that allow the joint force to decide and strike faster than the adversary. In our 10x portfolio we build the operational enablers across the spectrum of energy, logistics, biosecurity, and infrastructure to radically extend operational reach and sustainment. AI is part of our baseline and underlying infrastructure and we drive algorithm integration across all portfolios while continuing to pilot projects at the leading edge of the commercial frontier. DIU cuts procurement timelines to field low-cost, high-lethality and critical operational technology into the hands of our warfighters - fast.

Who We Are / Our Mission
What is the Department of War Innovation Unit
The "Why?"
Launched in August 2015 as DIUx by Secretary of Defense Ash Carter
Commercial technology was advancing faster than defense R&D
Adversaries were outpacing the U.S. in developing and adopting critical innovation
The Joint Forces were stuck with slow acquisitions cycles
Speed did not match operational needs
The Problem
Traditional DoW acquisition methods are too slow
The barriers to entry into the DoW marketplace for first-time, nontraditional and small businesses are too high
The DoW relies on long, requirements-driven acquisitions and procurement cycles
This risk-averse environment blocks innovation before it can reach warfighters
The Approach
DIU is a DoW "Field Activity," allowing for nimble operations to meet real Joint Force needs
Our open solicitations and OTA contracting authority awards prototype contracts in months, not years
Our team includes experts from the commercial sector, military and U.S. government
Our #1 goal is rapid prototyping, transition and delivering results
Converting Capitalism Into Combat Power
Technology Areas Where We Overmatch Threats and Deliver Capability at Scale.
From Commercial Breakthrough to Warfighter Reality
Autonomous Warfare
Overwhelming the adversary with unmanned mass.
Kill Web
Out-sensing and out-targeting the adversary through AI-integrated space architecture.
10x
Speed and radical cost reduction fielding solutions 10x faster and 10x cheaper.
AI Crosscutter
Weaving next-gen AI solutions into the core of every project.
Bridge Program
Raising the probability of adoption by deepening transition.
Submit Your Solution
The mission is urgent, and we are your pathway. Whether you're a startup with a breakthrough or a warfighter with a gap, let's deliver the overmatch our warriors deserve.
Have a solution for our most critical gaps?
"Cassowary Vex" Suborbital Launch of Hypersonic Test Platform / Feb 2026