Defense Bill Calls for First Overseas Pentagon Innovation Office in Israel
The US House of Representatives has advanced a defense policy bill that would require the Pentagon to open a Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) office in Israel.
Led by Iowa Representative Zach Nunn, the move directs the Department of Defense to establish the hub within six months of the National Defense Authorization Act’s enactment.
Created in 2015 to speed the Pentagon’s adoption of commercial technology, the DIU has since focused on tools vital to future conflicts with major powers, including autonomous systems.
Nunn said placing a hub in Israel will “enhance battlefield readiness and ensure US and Israeli forces stay ahead of emerging threats in a volatile region.”
If launched, the center would work with Israel’s Ministry of Defense and private industry on dual-use technologies to counter advances by Iran, China, and other adversaries.
“Strengthening coordination with one of America’s closest allies enhances battlefield readiness,” Nunn stated. “As a twenty-year combat veteran and current Air Force colonel, I will never waver in defending our national security.”
The provision still needs to move through the Senate before becoming law, as Congress works to finalize the defense bill.
DIU Beyond US Borders
The Israeli facility roadmap comes as lawmakers back a broader Pentagon push to expand the DIU’s global reach.
In August, defense officials announced plans to send DIU personnel to “dozens” of partner nations to accelerate access to emerging technology and deepen security ties.
As part of the rollout, a US liaison officer will be based at the American Institute in Taiwan, the de facto embassy in Kaohsiung, by year’s end.
The officer will collaborate on unmanned aerial systems and other dual-use technologies. Another representative is expected to work closely with Japan on defense innovation.
Officials framed the effort as part of a wider global network meant to link allied innovation ecosystems and ensure the US military can adapt quickly in contested regions.
Building Wider Network
Over the years, the DIU has signed cooperation agreements with Singapore, Japan, and the UAE, though the UK remains the only country currently hosting a permanent DIU presence.
At home, the DIU operates five “OnRamp” hubs that serve as entry points for private innovators to connect with the military. It also deploys ambassadors for regional outreach and has embedded staff with US combatant commands since 2023 to align technologies with operational needs.
Despite this expansion, the DIU has never run a physical office overseas. If approved, Nunn’s proposed amendment would make Israel the first, underscoring Congress’ growing role in shaping the Pentagon’s innovation strategy.
