The next generation of technology changing how warfighters operate, how military assets are protected and how critical infrastructure withstands disruption is being built in Hampton Roads.
Five companies working across software, autonomous systems, advanced materials, surveillance and maritime technology make up the inaugural SEAL Tank cohort at Neptune SHIELD Innovation Hub in Virginia Beach.
SEAL Tank was created to accelerate dual use technologies with applications across defense and commercial markets in a region deeply connected to the nation’s military.
For Neptune SHIELD President Nick Rocha, that connection is exactly what makes Hampton Roads the place to build.
“Virginia ranks #1 in defense spending and investment per capita across the services. Policy is decided in Northern Virginia, but the tip of the spear is here in Hampton Roads. We have the largest naval base, NATO, and the best of all the other branches here. We should have the world’s leading defense and dual use technology coming out of this region,” Rocha said.
But proximity to the military is only part of the equation. Hampton Roads also has a deep maritime industrial base and thousands of veterans with firsthand knowledge of the problems defense technology is being built to solve.
SEAL Tank connects that operational knowledge with entrepreneurs, customers, capital, manufacturing and pathways into the defense market. The goal is to help promising technologies move from invention to adoption while giving the companies building them a reason to grow in Hampton Roads.
The inaugural SEAL Tank cohort brings together five companies approaching defense and dual use technology from different directions.
Development Infostructure builds digital infrastructure and software platforms addressing national security logistics and communications challenges.
Gargoyle Systems is developing technology that detects and classifies drones in real time, providing greater awareness of activity in the airspace around them.
Voltage Vessels is developing recyclable thermoplastic composite systems designed for large scale manufacturing in demanding environments, including maritime and defense applications.
Disruptor Maritime manufactures vessels for military, law enforcement, public safety and commercial customers, with designs focused on reducing shock and vibration while improving maneuverability, efficiency and safety.
StewTech develops advanced mobility technology for defense and commercial applications, including compact tactical electric vehicles and unmanned surface vessels.
Together, the companies show the range of technology emerging from SEAL Tank, from what warfighters use in the field to how equipment is manufactured, threats are detected and missions are carried out.
On September 17, the companies will bring that work outside Neptune SHIELD and into the HIVE during the Virginia Cup preparty.
“Partnering with both Innovate Hampton Roads and Virginia Beach through the HIVE is a great way for people across the region to see firsthand the dual use technologies being built right here in the 757 and directly out of Neptune SHIELD,” Rocha said.
The SEAL Tank showcase runs from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Virginia Cup Pre-Party across the street at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts. Secure tickets here.
Hampton Roads has long been a place where America’s military operates, trains, deploys and sustains the force. Neptune SHIELD is building the other side of that equation, an ecosystem where more of the technology supporting those missions is developed, tested, funded, manufactured and brought to market.
On September 17, the region gets a firsthand look at what that work is producing.
Learn more about Nick Rocha and Neptune Shield on Fervent Four.
