Columbia News

U.S. Senators Eric Schmitt of Missouri and John Hickenlooper of Colorado have introduced the Defense Technology Hubs Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at fostering defense innovation and investment in 10 regions across the United States, including Missouri and Colorado. The initiative seeks to modernize the nation's defense innovation base and create jobs.

Senator Schmitt emphasized the importance of building defense tools quickly to deter conflicts and protect American interests amid challenges from countries like China. "The United States faces an ever-growing challenge of maintaining our advantage amid rapid advancements and innovations from our foreign adversaries like China, and we must rise to the challenge," he stated. He expressed hope that Missouri would serve as a model for tech hubs nationwide.

Senator Hickenlooper highlighted Colorado's role in advancing defense technology, noting, "You don’t have to look further than Colorado to see how a strong, interconnected defense tech ecosystem spurs even greater cutting-edge breakthroughs." He stressed America's need to enhance its innovation edge to compete with China's investments.

The proposed legislation requires the Department of Defense (DoD) to establish regional DoD Tech Hubs focused on critical national security technologies. Criteria for receiving a hub include capabilities in relevant technology areas, evidence of regional collaboration, stakeholder commitment, and the presence of federal defense institutions or military installations involved in emerging technologies such as geospatial intelligence, data fusion, and AI.

Additionally, the act mandates that these hubs do not duplicate existing efforts by entities like DIU or DARPA. It also prohibits involvement by foreign entities deemed concerning by DoD in coordination with intelligence agencies.

The bill authorizes $375 million for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 with a requirement for matching funds from non-federal sources.