THE DIVERSIFICATION OF ARMY INNOVATION


“Our international alliances are bound by a common interest in national security and bolstered by shared innovation,” said Chris Manning, deputy assistant secretary of the Army for research and technology (DASA(R&T)). “By tapping into unique capabilities and leveraging global partnerships through xTech’s international competitions, the Army develops solutions to some of our most pressing challenges and helps ensure a secure future for the U.S. and our allies.”


THE INTERNATIONAL PRIZE Te xTech Program’s international competitions offer a platform for global innovators to share defense-capable technologies with DOD. Te series, which began in 2021 with the xTechGlobal AI (artificial intelligence) Challenge, promotes joint innovation and research and development (R&D) between the Army and top technology innovators from partner nations, enhancing U.S. defense capabilities.


Between 2022 and 2024, xTech launched and concluded three more international competitions that focused on various


technology areas ranging from AI, advanced manufacturing and materials, power and energy, synthetic bio and quantum. Tese four competitions have collectively offered over $1.7 million in cash prizes, giving international innovators the financial support needed to develop their solutions alongside U.S. partners.


Many international entities also gain opportunities for follow-on agreements through networking and connections made during the competitions, such as the Foreign Technology Assessment Support (FTAS) program and Cooperative Research and Devel- opment Agreements (CRADAs).


Te international competitions offer finalists another xTech staple—the Accelerator Program. Tis cohort-based program provides mentorship, networking and business development opportunities. Te accelerators are tailored to offer meaningful resources to innovators who face unique challenges when working with DOD, including limited familiarity with the DOD acquisi- tion process. Tese resources empower international innovators to


TEAMING UP FOR XTECH


The U.S. Army xTech team, joined by members of ASA(ALT), AFC, DEVCOM, ONR-G and other government agencies, hosted the xTechInternational Advanced Manufacturing and Materials competition during the summer of 2023 in London, England. (Photo courtesy of the U.S. Army xTech Program)


36


Army AL&T Magazine


Spring 2025


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