“We’re one step closer to delivering capabilities to the warfighter,” Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach said in a statement.

In an exclusive interview with DefenseScoop, Owen West shared new details about his vision to reshape DIU’s operational structure to fit its modern mission.

Officials said it will include a range complex, “drone academy” and technology center to develop, test and evaluate new capabilities, specifically low-cost, scalable equipment.

The initiative aims to speed the delivery of new tech to the services and combatant commands.

The robotic platforms, which are built by Saronic, were recently employed in an attack against Iran for the first time.

DARPA’s Lift Challenge is scheduled to take place Aug. 2-9 at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton, Ohio.

Defense officials have long-touted the benefits of directed energy systems such as their high-speed engagement, low cost-per-shot and deep magazines.

Officials hailed the deal as a major step in the military alliance's digital transformation.

Via the NG-USI effort, the Navy aims to create a “sphere of technological excellence” with members of industry and not-for-profit organizations to rapidly develop prototype solutions.

DefenseScoop has early details about a major reorganization effort and shake-up that was recently initiated by DIU's new director, Owen West.