In this episode of DefTechPod, we speak with Marcus Roberts - former British Army officer and now a key figure within Janus Allies and IoT Tribe - about what it really takes for dual-use technology to enter defence markets.
Marcus shares how his operational experience in Afghanistan shaped the way he judges new technology, why innovation cycles are accelerating dramatically, and what founders often misunderstand about defence timing and realism.
We explore:
How NATO DIANA and UKDI accelerators actually work in practice
What Janus Allies delivers on behalf of the UK MoD
How IoT Tribe evolved from deep-tech accelerator to ecosystem builder
Why going through an accelerator is not the same as getting a “seat at the table”
What an ecosystem activation agreement is and why it matters
The role of primes in shaping real routes to market
Why patience and timing are critical for dual-use founders
How veterans act as “critical friends” to pressure-test innovation
Why failure in defence innovation is normal and necessary
Marcus also discusses the difference between exciting technology and operationally safe technology, and why lived military experience changes how risk is interpreted.
This conversation is essential listening for dual-use founders considering defence, innovators looking at NATO DIANA, and anyone trying to understand how ecosystems, primes, and accelerators actually fit together.
Defence innovation is not just about great technology. It is about timing, sponsorship, realism, and building the right relationships around your capability.
New episodes drop every Thursday.