Brief highlights
Technology has always carried dual potential, which is the power to uplift society and the possibility of being used in ways its creators maybe never intended. Today, as innovation accelerates, dual-use tech tools that can serve both civilian and defense purposes sits at the center of some of the most important conversations in global innovation.
Dual-use technologies are everywhere. Artificial intelligence helps doctors detect diseases earlier, but the same algorithms can optimize cyberattacks. Drones deliver medical supplies to remote regions, yet they can also be repurposed for surveillance or conflict. Even everyday tools like GPS and the internet began as military technologies before transforming into global infrastructure.
What makes dual-use tech so influential is its ability to scale impact across sectors. A breakthrough in robotics might streamline disaster response, manufacturing, and agriculture all at once. Advances in biotech can fuel new therapies while improving food production. And AI-driven analytics can empower both humanitarian aid and smart logistics systems.
5 Hot Dual-Use startups
Anduril Industries
-> Autonomous defense systems (sensors, drones, AI command platforms)
-> The same autonomy, sensor fusion, and security stack can be applied to border security, critical-infrastructure monitoring, and disaster response
Shield AI
-> AI “pilot” software (Hivemind) and autonomous aircraft/drones
-> Tech that can be used for defense missions also works for commercial inspections, emergency response, and industrial robotics
Saildrone
-> Autonomous, wind and solar powered ocean drones collecting climate, mapping, and maritime-security data
-> Same vehicles support climate science, commercial shipping, and naval/maritime defense
Hadrian
-> Autonomous factories manufacturing critical aerospace and defense components
-> Serves both commercial space/aerospace and traditional defense; also modernizes broader advanced manufacturing
Future trends to watch
Dual-use technology is moving faster and several trends are beginning to shape the next wave of innovation. Autonomous systems are becoming more capable, blending real world sensing with advanced decision making. Space technologies are rapidly expanding as private companies take on roles once reserved for governments. AI copilots are emerging across manufacturing, logistics, and national security, helping humans work smarter. New breakthroughs in climate technology, robotics, and cyber resilience are also converging, creating powerful tools that can serve both civilian and protective missions.