The United States and Japan are seeking innovative solutions to address the growing threats caused by disinformation and biological threats.
The U.S. Defense Innovation Unit announced on Tuesday that it launched the U.S.-Japan Global Innovation Challenge with Japan’s Defense Innovation Science and Technology Institute to explore new technologies and solutions, including using commercially available products for military operations.
The challenge seeks submissions focused on two capabilities:
- detecting and diagnosing biological threats, and
- delivering generative artificial intelligence-powered solutions capable of discerning disinformation using fact-checking algorithms.
Interested stakeholders should submit their proposals on or before Jan. 22, 2025. The pitching of the proposed novel technology is scheduled for March 18, 2025.
Aside from developing and demonstrating new solutions to U.S. and Japanese defense leaders, participants will also gain a chance to receive $300,000 in funding.
DIU Director Doug Beck highlighted the importance of closely collaborating with Japan in various aspects. “Our coordination and cooperation in our shared strategic imperative for a free and open Indo-Pacific is critical to our success,” he said.
The two nations have been committed to ensuring stability and peace in the Indo-Pacific for years, launching initiatives to improve partners’ capabilities to contribute to the effort. In October, the U.S. and Japan, alongside Australia, hosted a multilateral maritime exercise to ensure optimal interoperability among the nations’ naval forces.
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