The Undersea Technology Innovation Consortium (UTIC) just hit a major milestone: 100 prototype projects worth over $1.4 billion. That’s not just a number—it’s a signal that the U.S. Navy’s approach to undersea tech is working. The consortium’s Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) with the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Newport is proving to be a game-changer, fast-tracking innovation from lab to fleet.
This isn’t just about big contracts and big players. UTIC has awarded projects to 64 organizations, including 50 non-traditional defense contractors. That’s a deliberate strategy—bringing fresh ideas and agile companies into the fold. The OTA model cuts through bureaucracy, letting the Navy prototype and acquire cutting-edge tech at speed. And it’s paying off. We’re talking sonar, autonomous systems, and communication tools that are reshaping undersea operations.
Molly Donohue Magee, UTIC’s CEO, puts it bluntly: “UTIC represents some of the most innovative organizations in the nation.” This isn’t just about tech—it’s about building a network of experts who can move fast and deliver. The Navy needs that agility, and UTIC is delivering.
But here’s the real kicker: this model isn’t just about defense. It’s about industry collaboration at scale. Mica Dolan, President and COO of Advanced Technology International (ATI), which manages UTIC, highlights the power of deep industry engagement. “Collaboration drives innovation, and speed is a collective imperative.” That’s the secret sauce—bringing together diverse players, from startups to research institutes, to solve real-world problems.
Marie Bussiere, Technical Director at NUWC Newport, underscores the impact: “The continued success of this partnership has helped the Navy move forward in its mission to successfully get emerging technologies to the Fleet at a rapid pace.” This isn’t just about prototypes—it’s about getting tech into the hands of sailors, fast.
So, what’s next? UTIC isn’t resting on its laurels. The consortium is evolving, expanding, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the undersea battlespace. With 100 projects under its belt, UTIC is proving that innovation doesn’t have to be slow. It can be fast, collaborative, and deeply impactful. And that’s a lesson not just for the Navy, but for the entire maritime industry.