Pentagon Woos Silicon Valley to Join Ranks of Arms Makers

Im 729486

The Pentagon is seeking to enlist Silicon Valley startups in its effort to fund and develop new weapons technology and more-nimble suppliers, as the U.S. races to keep pace with China’s military advances.

The push to tap private capital comes in the midst of concern that U.S. defense-industry consolidation has led to dependence on a few large companies that rely on government funding for research and is hampering innovation. Meanwhile, China has pulled ahead in some key technologies, ranging from small drones to hypersonic missiles, helped by Beijing’s use of external public-private guidance funds, according to current and former Pentagon officials.

More News & Insights

Instagram Podcast 5.31.23 V2

Building the Base Episode 29: Billy Thalheimer

In this episode, Hondo, Lauren, and Billy discuss the intersection of national security and public/private cooperation. They delve into the development of a full-scale sea glider prototype that can carry…

Foreign Aid In Afghanistan, January 2023 Edited

International Institutions Confront Taliban Troubles

International leaders are struggling to manage a Taliban-ruled Afghanistan; they are torn between their commitment to alleviate Afghans’ suffering and their reluctance to legitimize a Taliban government that violates its…

Taskfroce153 Scaled 1536x864

U.S. Launches New Task Force in Middle East to Train Naval Partners

“This task force enables the United States to have less direct focus on this naval harassment campaign by building up the skills of local navies that will offset the security…

Receive BENS news and insights in your inbox.