How does DIU differ from traditional Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition approaches?

DIU uses streamlined acquisition processes to rapidly prototype and transition commercial technologies to the military. They prioritize speed, flexibility, and collaboration with non-traditional defense contractors.

What are some key technology areas DIU focuses on?

DIU concentrates on areas such as artificial intelligence, autonomy, cyber, energy, human systems, and space. These areas are seen as critical for maintaining U.S. military technological superiority.

DIU (Defense Innovation Unit) | GovCon Glossary

DIU (Defense Innovation Unit)

What is DIU (Defense Innovation Unit)?

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is a Department of Defense (DoD) organization focused on accelerating the adoption of commercial technology into the U.S. military. DIU serves as a bridge between the DoD and the commercial innovation ecosystem, working with companies that are developing cutting-edge solutions relevant to national security challenges. DIU aims to rapidly prototype and transition these technologies to meet the evolving needs of the armed forces.

Definition

DIU, established in 2015, operates with a unique model to address the increasing speed of technological advancement in the commercial sector. Unlike traditional DoD procurement processes, DIU utilizes streamlined acquisition authorities to rapidly evaluate, prototype, and transition commercially derived technologies into operational use. DIU projects typically involve a phased approach, starting with a prototype phase and potentially leading to follow-on production contracts if the technology proves successful. This approach allows the DoD to quickly assess and integrate innovative solutions while mitigating the risks associated with long development cycles typical of traditional defense programs.

The organization's mandate is to identify and engage with non-traditional defense contractors, including startups and established commercial technology companies, who may not typically pursue government contracts. By leveraging commercial innovation, DIU aims to enhance the military's capabilities and maintain its technological edge in a rapidly changing global landscape. DIU's approach is authorized under various statutory authorities intended to facilitate the rapid adoption of commercial innovation.

Key Points

Focus on Commercial Technology: DIU's primary mission is to identify and adopt commercially developed technologies that address critical national security challenges.
Rapid Prototyping: DIU uses streamlined acquisition processes to quickly prototype and evaluate new technologies, reducing the time it takes to field innovative solutions.
Non-Traditional Contractors: DIU actively seeks to engage with companies that are not traditional defense contractors, broadening the pool of potential innovators.
Strategic Investment: DIU strategically invests in technologies that have both commercial and military applications, fostering innovation and accelerating the development of dual-use solutions.

Practical Examples

Autonomous Systems for Logistics: DIU collaborates with commercial drone companies to develop autonomous systems for logistics and supply chain management, improving the efficiency and resilience of military operations.
AI-Powered Cybersecurity: DIU partners with AI startups to develop advanced cybersecurity solutions that can detect and respond to cyber threats in real-time, enhancing the protection of critical defense systems.
Space-Based ISR Capabilities: DIU works with commercial space companies to deploy advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, providing the military with enhanced situational awareness and strategic insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

DIU primarily engages with companies that are building cutting-edge technologies that have both commercial and defense applications. They look for companies often not traditionally associated with the defense sector.