Navy's “Catapult” promises to accelerate emerging tech, but skepticism remains
The new program shares its name with the notoriously finicky electromagnetic launch system that struggled to reliably launch jets from Navy aircraft carriers.
U.S. Navy’s “Catapult” initiative aims to speed up the integration of emerging technologies, targeting high-priority issues such as digital architecture and re-arming at sea, reports DefenseScoop. Past initiatives have included the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and Rapid Innovation Fund (RIF), but this time, Navy plans to invest millions in small businesses already engaged in federal projects, hoping to bypass traditional bureaucratic delays. Despite promises of rapid progress, similar initiatives have previously failed to deliver lasting results. While officials tout Catapult's potential to transition proven technologies to warfighters, many remain cautious, noting the Navy’s long-standing struggles with innovation and procurement. Proposals will begin in October, with outcomes expected in 2025.
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