Two Tucson-area companies showcased new technologies to the Department of Defense recently after winning national honors for innovation.

Biotech drug startup NuvOx Pharma and drone watercraft maker Hydronalix Inc. were among more than 100 companies awarded the 2017 TechConnect Defense Innovation Award.

Hydronalix, which is based in Sahuarita, was recognized in the “energy and resilience” category for its Emergency Integrated Lifesaving Lanyard, or EMILY, a robotic, motorized rescue buoy that can tow a rescue line 1 to 2 kilometers at about 30 miles per hour to help save people even in rough ocean waters.