The US Navy just told us what’s on its tech wish list for the next several years

Navy CTO Justin Fanelli detailed how the service is updating its technology wish list and looking to work more closely with venture-backed startups. Recent moves include a $562 million autonomous refueling deal, with priorities spanning AI, autonomous systems, quantum technologies, and other dual-use capabilities.

The Navy’s approach signals a broader defense shift away from funding early research in isolation and toward leveraging private capital to accelerate deployment. For founders, defense tech opportunities are expanding, but success will depend on aligning commercial innovation with military procurement needs and timelines.