NSTXL Brings OTA Discussions to SXSW Conference

National Security Technology Accelerator (NSTXL) was in Austin, TX for the first week of the annual South by Southwest (SXSW) conference, which featured defense technology and government innovators from around the globe. From speaking sessions on “Why Microelectronics Matter” to full-day presentations on accelerating acquisition, the NSTXL team created a profound presence for defense innovation.

On March 6^th, NSTXL’s Stephanie Lin, VP, Microelectronics Commons spoke at the Austin4America conference on the far-reaching implications of microelectronics innovation in the U.S. Additionally, on March 8^th, NSTXL hosted 100+ guests at the Capital Factory to listen and take part in exclusive discussions surrounding defense innovation.

Defense acquisition is a widely discussed topic in the industry right now considering recent pushes for acceleration within the DoD. In Defense Secretary Hegseth’s memo released on March 6^th, he stated that OTAs should become the new “default solicitation method.” NSTXL hosted an event titled “Agility in Action: Rapid Acquisition for National Security” at the Capital Factory, with multiple educational and collaborative sessions surrounding rapid acquisition through OTAs, focusing on DoD OTA acquisition and accelerated tech procurement.

The event featured impactful discussions and keynotes with key government, congressional, and industry leaders. Speakers included U.S. Representative Pat Fallon, 4^th District of Texas; Dr. Dev Shenoy, Principal Director for Microelectronics, Microelectronics Commons Executive Director OUSD(R&E)/ASD(CT); leadership from Kratos SRE and Leidos, and more. Sessions covered critical topics that are shaping the future of space defense, hypersonic readiness, and microelectronics for national security. It was clear through these sessions that the speed of acquisition is paramount for maintaining agile defense technology in today’s rapidly evolving threat landscape.

The event kicked off with a featured panel on “Achieving Space Defense Readiness for a Resilient Future,” featuring Brad Morrison, Founder & CEO of Atlantis, and Norman Garza, Executive Director of the Texas Space Commission. The panelists discussed emerging threats to U.S. space defense, industry’s role in accelerating innovation, leveraging commercial capabilities to enhance national security, and more.

This was followed by a panel on “Hypersonic Readiness Redefined: The Impact of MACH-TB’s Rapid Test Advancements,” featuring Mike Johns, SVP at Kratos SRE, and Eric Tuck, Senior Principal Engineer for Hypersonics at Leidos.

Mark McIntosh, CEO of NSTXL, led the discussion surrounding the MACH-TB initiative. This panel discussed how supporting hypersonics advancement is critical to our national security and a strong example of how the government can innovate quickly and successfully. Kratos led the MACH-TB 1.0 initiative and Leidos was recently selected for MACH-TB 2.0. Together, they shared the changes that MACH-TB is bringing to enhance the speed and efficiency of hypersonic technology development as well as lessons learned.

The event also featured a Fireside Chat with U.S. Representative Pat Fallon, 4^th District of Texas, who is a member of the House Armed Services Committee where he serves as the chairman of the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.  During this lively discussion, Rep. Fallon shared his thoughts on issues such as:

• Growing threats in China and other foreign threats
• Accelerating innovation in Congress
• Government efficiency initiatives (DOGE)
• National security development in Texas
• AI, autonomous systems, and quantum computing

When asked about Congress’ role in improving acquisition methods and timelines, Rep. Fallon responded with,

“We need to accelerate innovation. We need to streamline and cut the red tape. We need those small and medium-sized businesses, which are very lean and very innovative, to be competitive…. It’s time to even the playing field.”

Finally, the esteemed Dr. Dev Shenoy, Principal Director for Microelectronics, Microelectronics Commons Executive Director OUSD(R&E)/ASD(CT), gave an informative keynote presentation on current state of microelectronics development in the United States. He discussed Microelectronics Commons, an intensely critical program designed to reduce our reliance on foreign microelectronics and safeguard our nation from supply chain risks.

NSTXL’s presence at SXSW 2025 underscored the critical need for rapid defense innovation and collaboration between government, industry, and academia. Through engaging discussions, expert panels, and exclusive networking opportunities, the event highlighted key national security priorities such as microelectronics, space defense, and hypersonic advancements. As defense acquisition continues to evolve, NSTXL remains at the forefront, driving meaningful change and accelerating innovation to meet the challenges of tomorrow. The conversations and insights shared at SXSW serve as a powerful reminder that technological superiority is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity for national security.

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