Skip to main content
space x and DIU

We push combat power forward.

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. Super Intelligence 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

Quadcopter drone hovering above a field at sunset

Autonomous Warfare

Overwhelming the adversary with unmanned mass.

 Underside of a delta-wing aircraft flying through clouds

Kill Web

Out-sensing and out-targeting the adversary through AI-integrated space architecture.

 Factory floor assembling missiles with workers and robotic arms

10x

Speed and radical cost reduction fielding solutions 10x faster and 10x cheaper.

 Briefcase with a tape recorder and documents, overlaid with the words Special Projects: Classified

Super Intelligence/Machine Learning

Weaving next gen Super Intelligence solutions into the core of every project.

 Bridge program seal showing the Golden Gate Bridge

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?

View Open Solicitations

"Cassowary Vex" Suborbital Launch of Hypersonic Test Platform / Feb 2026
Cassowary Vex project spotlight ↗