Navy Chief Technology Officer Justin Fanelli is actively pitching investors, advocating for a new strategy where the Navy will co invest alongside venture capitalists. This strategic shift moves away from the traditional method of the Navy directly funding early stage research projects on its own. The objective is to collaboratively develop emerging technologies, signaling a new partnership model for innovation.
Fanelli outlined key technological interests and recent acquisitions, noting a significant 562 million dollar deal for autonomous refueling capabilities. He also shared the Navy's updated wish list, specifying critical areas for future development. These priorities span from artificial intelligence to quantum computing, indicating where startup founders and technology companies should focus their efforts for potential naval applications.