Connecting Israeli Defense Startups with the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)

September 9, 2025

Israel’s defense tech sector is attracting growing international attention, and the U.S. Department of Defense is one of the most important partners for startups in this space. The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) was created to bring commercial technologies into the U.S. military with speed and efficiency.

For Israeli companies developing dual-use and defense technologies, DIU represents a direct and practical pathway into the U.S. defense market. To make that path easier, we compiled the resources and points of contact that DIU shared with us during their recent visit to Tel Aviv.

1. How to Engage with DIU

  • Submit your pitch deck and explain how your solution aligns with DIU’s focus areas. Sign up for updates, including Commercial Solutions Openings (CSOs).
    Company Interest Form
  • Review current solicitations to see where DIU is actively seeking solutions.
    Open Solicitations
  • Sign up for DIU’s newsletter to receive updates and announcements.
    Newsletter Sign-Up

2. Learn More About DoD’s Defense Innovation Unit

DIU drives adoption of commercial technology into the U.S. military with agile processes and rapid contracting.

3. Foreign Comparative Testing (FCT) Program

The Foreign Comparative Testing (FCT) Program evaluates mature technologies (TRL 8/9) from international companies for integration into the U.S. military.

Why This Matters

  • Speed: DIU moves from solicitations to contracts in a matter of weeks.
  • Validation: A DIU project or U.S. DoD contract signals credibility to investors and partners.
  • Scale: DIU enables prototypes to evolve into deployed solutions across the U.S. military.

Israeli defense startups have a unique opportunity to connect with DIU and the wider U.S. defense ecosystem. The resources outlined here provide a clear starting point to submit technologies, follow DIU’s focus areas, and explore programs like the Foreign Comparative Testing initiative. For startups that are ready to scale, DIU offers speed, credibility, and access to one of the largest defense markets in the world.

Startup Nation Central will continue to support Israeli innovators by creating connections and opening global doors. Learn more about the Israeli defense tech landscape with data from Finder.