Sens. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo, and John Hickenlooper, D-Co, have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at encouraging defense technology innovation and investment in 10 regions across the country.
Schmitt said Monday the Defense Technology Hubs Act aims to promote the modernization of the defense innovation base and generate jobs through the construction of tech hubs in Missouri, Colorado and other parts of the country.
What Is the Defense Technology Hubs Act?
The bipartisan bill mandates the Department of Defense to establish a program meant to support the facilities in developing defense technologies. The act also highlights the need for a codified eligibility requirements to be deemed a Department of Defense tech hub; regional collaboration and stakeholder commitment; and the presence of “anchor” federal defense institutions or military installations.
The Defense Technology Hubs Act will ensure the hubs do not duplicate existing efforts, prevent foreign entities from participating and authorize $375 million for fiscal years 2026 to 2030.
“We cannot deter great power conflict, we cannot protect the American way of life and we cannot guarantee peace through strength if we cannot build the tools of defense at scale and speed,” remarked Schmitt.
“America needs to double down on our innovation advantage to compete with China’s accelerating investments,” said Hickenlooper.
