Name: From workbench to warfighter - building tech that matters
Start: 2025-12-10T16:00:00.000+00:00
End: 2025-12-10T17:00:00.000+00:00
Location: Online Event

In partnership with DASA, part of UKDI, Janus helps startups turn bold ideas into operational capabilities for the UK and NATO, led by IoT Tribe with SETsquared and Atmos Ventures.

Janus Allies

Please note - this event is ONLINE only. 

From workbench to warfighter - building tech that matters

For founders building dual-use technologies, join our next pathfinder event with Chris Manuel, former US Army special forces, aerospace VP and founder of defence tech startups including Rover, Simple Key Loader (SKL) and Tactinet. In conversation with Tanya Suarez, CEO of IoT Tribe, this event offers a unique perspective on leadership, innovation and scaling technology in defence and beyond. 

Drawing on frontline experience and executive leadership in high-stakes environments, Chris brings a unique lens to building mission-critical solutions. A retired US Army Special Forces Chief Warrant Officer 4 with 33 years of service, including 15 years in special operations across multiple countries, Chris pairs deep operational insight with technical acumen. He previously served as Corporate Vice President for C4N at Sierra Nevada Corporation, founded two start-up tech companies, and held academic leadership roles at the Naval Postgraduate School, including Associate Dean of Research for Technology Development and Professor of the Practice in the Department of Defence Management.

Chris will be sharing a practical model for problem-solving rooted in adaptability, resilience, and precision, and explore how to build tech that truly matters for warfighters.

 as this is your opportunity to engage directly and shape the conversation around your own journey.

A series designed for startups developing dual-use technologies, offering clear guidance on navigating the defence market and tailored support to accelerate growth.

These sessions offer exclusive opportunities to hear directly from experts, build valuable connections and gain a competitive edge to drive innovation in the defence sector. 

Subscribe to Janus in Luma stay up-to-date with more sessions to come.

Janus is delivered in partnership with the UK Defence Innovation Defence & Security Accelerator (UKDI-DASA), led by IoT Tribe in consortium with SETsquared partnership and Atmos VC.

We are delivering the DIANA and DASA startup programmes to reinforce the UK's position within NATO. We equip startups and industry with the necessary operational and technical support to commercialise emerging frontier technologies that address pressing needs of civilian and defence markets. Janus unlocks procurement pathways and connects innovators with strategic investors, demystifying the scaling process for early-stage businesses. This enables the next generation of high-growth, dual-use ventures to focus on developing innovative capabilities for the UK and NATO allies.

If you have any questions, please reach out to us at 