The Challenge

INNOVATION—technological and tactical—has long been a U.S. strategic advantage.

The past century is replete with examples of the U.S. military adapting to new opportunities and having the agility to apply new technologies faster than the adversary—from the advent of nuclear weapons and propulsion for warships to precision-guided munitions to persistent ISR and cyber warfare.

Meeting today’s rapidly changing global threat environment will require even greater adaptability and increased use of emerging technologies. How can the Sea Services meld technology, innovation, and a culture of rapid learning to maintain their edge?

Essays may address topics ranging from new technologies and how they could be applied, to developing and maintaining agile, innovative cultures and teams.

Authors should include real-world examples. Areas of application of great interest include:
• Designing and building the future force
• Tactics and operational art
• Spiral development
• Manned-unmanned teaming
• Wargaming
• Training and education for innovation

Submission Guidelines

  • Open to all contributors -- active-duty military, reservists, veterans, and civilians.
  • Essays must be no more than 2,500 words, excluding end notes and sources. Include word count on title page of the essay.
  • Essays are judged in the blind. Do not include the author(s) name on the title page or in the body of the essay.
  • Submit essay as a Word document at www.usni.org/innovation-contest no later than 15 August 2025.
  • Essay must be original and not previously published (online or in print) or being considered for publication elsewhere. 

First Prize: $5,000

Second Prize: $2,500

Third Prize: $1,500

Selection Process

The Proceedings staff members will evaluate every essay and screen the top essays to a special Essay Selection Committee of at least six members who will include two members of the Naval Institute’s Editorial Board and four subject experts.

Announcement of the Winners

The winners will be published in a future issue of Proceedings.

Deadline

Submit your Essay

 

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Previous Winners