The defense technology movement is thriving, with significant investment and interest from founders eager to build for national security, but we must remain vigilant about its sustainability.

The landscape of defense technology has changed dramatically post-Ukraine, with a surge of interest and investment in venture-backed defense companies, which were previously rare in Silicon Valley.

Investing in defense tech is booming, but the market is not as limitless as it seems; there are mature and emergent competitors, and the available budget is often more constrained than perceived.

In the defense sector, many companies have become less innovative due to consolidation, creating opportunities for new entrants to disrupt the market.

Five years later, it's remarkable to see a room full of founders in defense technology, with multiple companies valued over a billion dollars, actively working on capabilities for the Department of Defense.

The current administration presents a unique opportunity to rethink defense procurement, moving away from traditional methods to a more innovative, venture-first approach.

Defensibility in startups often comes from doing something unique that others aren't pursuing. The most enduring companies typically find ways to differentiate themselves from the competition.

Despite concerns that OpenAI might stifle startups, there remains ample room for innovation, and the current tools could lead to a surge of new, exciting startups.

The future will see more dual-use companies, like Palantir, which started in defense but now engages significantly in commercial work.