A defense startup can build exactly what the military needs and still fail to sell it to the Pentagon.

To continue reading this article:

Register now to read
3 free articles this month.

You’ll also receive our weekly Editor’s Choice, SpaceNews This Week and Opinions newsletters. Opt-out at any time.

Sign in to an existing account

Get unlimited access to SpaceNews.com, the SpaceNews app and our digital monthly magazine for less than $5 per week.

$280

On a campus or library network? Check for access.

Cancel anytime. Sales tax may apply. No refunds. Terms and conditions apply.

See all subscription options

Omar Pimentel spent three years at the Defense Innovation Unit. He is now Director of Frontier Strategy at Type One Ventures, which invests in space, defense and frontier technology.