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Owen West has assumed the role of director at the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) following a handover ceremony at Fort Benning, Georgia. He succeeds Emil Michael and will focus on integrating commercial technologies into military operations.

The Department of War has classified DIU as a field activity to expedite innovation and delivery of advanced capabilities. West's priorities will involve targeting operational issues, with technologies expected to be fielded within three years.

He emphasizes performance accountability, speed, and transparency in project management, aiming to make DIU the fastest contracting agent within the Department of War. West, a Marine Corps veteran with experience in both military and finance, previously served as assistant secretary of war for special operations.