The Department of War has launched LYNX, a digital platform designed to help businesses navigate the complex defense contracting landscape.
The new system aims to connect small companies and non-traditional suppliers with defense opportunities while streamlining the Pentagon’s ability to identify mission-ready partners.
The platform addresses a critical gap in defense procurement: many innovative companies struggle not with capability but with understanding how to become credible defense suppliers. LYNX promises to transform that dynamic by providing clear pathways from technical expertise to actual contracts.
“LYNX turns readiness into action,” said Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy Michael Cadenazzi. “It’s designed to help companies present their capabilities clearly, prioritize the right steps, and move toward mission-aligned opportunities with greater speed and confidence.”
Companies can register at lynxconnect.io to create profiles and complete readiness assessments. The platform uses AI and machine learning to generate customized roadmaps for entry into the defense market.
LYNX targets small businesses and non-traditional suppliers with strong technical capabilities but limited defense contracting experience. The system helps companies showcase their strengths while identifying gaps in their readiness.
For the Pentagon, LYNX addresses persistent visibility challenges across the defense industrial base. The platform creates a centralized environment where officials can quickly identify and assess suppliers for priority missions.
“LYNX reflects OSBP’s commitment to reducing barriers to entry and expanding participation across the defense industrial base,” said James Mismash, Director of Small Business Programs. “By providing a common framework for readiness and capability, LYNX supports faster engagement, smarter collaboration, and more resilient supplier growth.”
The platform offers several key features for businesses. Companies can build credible profiles, complete readiness assessments, and receive AI-driven action plans tailored to their goals.
LYNX also facilitates partner discovery through advanced search capabilities and automated matching. Businesses can evaluate opportunities against their capabilities and access training resources and expert support.
The launch represents part of the Department of War’s broader efforts to modernize its industrial base. Officials emphasize that the platform will strengthen supply chain resilience and expand the pool of defense suppliers.
