The Pentagon has announced a groundbreaking initiative to provide free access to approximately 400 patents from its governmental laboratories. This decision, made public by Under Secretary for Research and Engineering, Emil Michael, aims to enhance innovation in the defense industry and facilitate the development of new technologies that could benefit military operations.
During a conference held on March 15, 2024, in Washington, D.C., Michael expressed his frustration over the underutilization of valuable research produced in the Pentagon’s laboratories, which collectively receive $3.3 billion annually. He highlighted that thousands of patents remain untapped, often due to a lack of accessibility and awareness among potential users.
Michael outlined a two-part strategy to address these issues. The first step, effective immediately, allows any company interested in exploring these patents to acquire a Commercial Evaluation License (CEL) at no cost for a two-year trial period. This initiative includes diverse technologies, ranging from advanced drone tracking systems developed by the Navy to innovative mortar fuses created by the Army. Michael’s team selected these patents based on their potential impact and alignment with the Pentagon’s six Critical Technology Areas, leveraging artificial intelligence to sift through the extensive options.
“This is an opportunity for developers to see what they can create using our technologies,” Michael said. “We’re offering a two-year patent holiday, royalty-free, to stimulate interest and encourage innovation.”
Should companies find success during this trial period and wish to extend their use of the patents, Michael indicated a willingness to negotiate long-term agreements. He noted that the revenue generated from patent licenses by the Pentagon is minimal, largely due to a lack of awareness about the available innovations.
The second phase of this initiative focuses on creating a centralized, searchable database that will compile all patents from the Pentagon’s 216 laboratories. This effort will utilize a public-private partnership known as TechLink and the interagency database called iEdison. Michael emphasized that while classified patents will not be included, this database aims to streamline access to the vast array of intellectual property generated by the Defense Department.
Bethany Loftin, director of the Technology Partnerships Office at the National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST), confirmed that a Memorandum of Understanding is being finalized to onboard all Defense Department laboratories into the iEdison database. “We are excited about the potential of this collaboration,” Loftin stated. “This will allow us to bring together thousands of patents into a single platform, enhancing accessibility for industry partners.”
Michael described the initial 400 patents as a “loss-leader” strategy designed to attract interest from companies that can transform these innovations into practical applications for military use. He expressed optimism that successful projects could lead to an expansion of the program, contingent on the level of interest and investment generated.
The initiative reflects a strategic shift within the Pentagon to leverage its research capabilities more effectively. Michael’s vision involves not only providing immediate access to valuable technologies but also fostering a culture of innovation that can lead to advancements in military capabilities.
As the Pentagon embarks on this ambitious plan, the hope is that the free access to these patents will stimulate collaboration between government and industry, ultimately enhancing national security through technological advancement.
