# DoD Highlights Emerging Defense Technologies

The NDIA Emerging Technologies for Defense Conference & Exhibition 2026, held in Washington, D.C., showcased key defense technology priorities including AI-driven data utilization by the U.S. Coast Guard and modernization efforts for Navy financial management systems. Department of Defense leaders underscored the critical role of federal investment in basic research to sustain innovation and maintain technological superiority as a deterrent to conflict. These developments signal ongoing procurement opportunities for contractors specializing in emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, and defense modernization solutions.

- The U.S. Coast Guard is advancing AI applications to better leverage vast data resources, indicating demand for AI and data analytics solutions.
- The Navy is focused on modernizing financial management systems, creating opportunities for IT modernization contractors.
- The DoD's emphasis on sustaining innovation through basic research suggests continued funding and contracts in emerging technology R&D.
- Procurement professionals should prioritize engagement with federal agencies investing in AI and defense technology modernization to align with evolving requirements.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Information Technology
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence, Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** September 19, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Coast Guard
- U.S. Navy
- Department of Defense (DoD)

### Key Quotes
> I think from, to a large degree, we are data hoarders, and we have so much data that we don't know what to do with it.
> — Greg Koval, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Financial Management Systems

### Sources
- [
        NDIA Emerging Technologies for Defense Conference & Exhibition 2026 | Federal News Network](https://federalnewsnetwork.com/ndia-emerging-technologies-for-defense-conference-exhibition-2026) - Federal News Network