NavalX held the 2025 Crucible Pitch Competition in April and selected the top six projects that seek to address critical military requirements and present commercial opportunities.
NavalX said the competition provided the Navy with an opportunity to advance defense innovation and help improve warfighter readiness through the expansion of the industrial base.
NavalX’s 6 Selections
Out of more than 25 proposals, six tech projects from dual-use startups were selected and won research sponsorships to advance development work.
The selected projects are:
- AmbientSense Technologies — smart stickers for proactive corrosion monitoring
- Hybron Technologies — lightweight composites tailored for defense platforms
- Khasm Labs — secure tactical edge networks for operations in contested zones
- Roboto AI — artificial intelligence-powered robotics data analysis platform
- Shield — patent-pending laser technology for advanced drone detection
- Solid Hydrogen — solid-state hydrogen storage enabling compact, clean energy
“NavalX enables mission delivery by lowering the barrier to entry for new ideas and accelerating vetted technologies into the hands of the warfighter,” said Capt. Joel Uzarski, director of NavalX.
“This pitch competition is an excellent example of how we accelerate capability through connection, curation and collaboration. Whether partnering with industry or across DoD commands, NavalX’s value is in brokering fast, smart and scalable connections,” added Uzarski.
What Is NavalX?
NavalX works to deliver cutting-edge technologies to the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps by linking innovators to resources, networks and expertise.
It advances the transition of emerging technologies that support warfighter readiness and lethality through TechBridge Network, Crucible and other programs.
Uzarski will be one of the keynote speakers at POC’s 2025 Navy Summit on Aug. 26. Listen to him and other experts as they discuss the latest tech advancements, policies and trends shaping the future of naval operations. Register now!
