SPECIAL REPORT: Failure is an option for DoD’s experimental agency, but how much?




Federal Drive with Tom Temin show

Summary: The Defense Department stood up the Defense Innovation Unit, or DIU, in 2015. It sought to pair military planners with Silicon Valley-type companies. After a finicky start, the agency caught on and started awarding contracts. But even though it found some successes, DIU has its skeptics in Congress. They worry it doesn’t have enough direction or spends without getting a final product. DIU is now out with its first long-term metrics. They cover the two and a half years. Federal News Network’s Scott Maucione spokes with Michael Madsen, DIU director of strategic engagement, about the numbers and what they mean for the unit’s future. Hear more on Federal Drive with Tom Temin.