Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09) joined Reps. Wesley Bell (MO), Deborah Ross (NC), and Mark Messmer (IN) to introduce the bipartisan Defense Technology Hubs Act of 2026, legislation directing the Department of Defense to establish a nationwide network of regional hubs focused on accelerating emerging defense technologies.
The bill would accelerate the transition of critical technologies from the lab to the field by strengthening workforce pipelines and expanding collaboration among universities, defense partners, nonprofits, and local and state leaders. For North Carolina, that means supporting readiness and innovation that directly benefits communities connected to Fort Bragg and across the state.
“To keep our military ahead of new threats, we need to move technology from the lab to the field faster. The Defense Technology Hubs Act speeds up innovation, strengthens our defense industrial base, and better facilitates the development of critical technologies here in the United States,” said Rep. Hudson.
“At a time when our global adversaries are investing heavily in next-generation technologies, America must not just compete, but lead, in research, development, and innovation. That means building innovation capacity in regions across the country,” said Rep. Bell. “St. Louis has already solidified its vital role in U.S. national security, and this bill ensures our region continues to drive that mission—not get left behind—as the race for technological dominance accelerates. We can strengthen our national defense while creating good-paying jobs, attracting new industry, and developing the strong, expansive workforce needed to keep America at the forefront of technological leadership.”
“As someone who represents one of the nation’s most critical defense innovation regions, I know firsthand how important it is to move new technology from concept to capability as quickly as possible,” said Rep. Messmer. “The Defense Technology Hubs Act creates a clear pathway for the Department of Defense, industry, and research institutions to work together to accelerate emerging technologies that keep our warfighters ahead of threats to our national security. This legislation strengthens our defense industrial base, protects American innovation, and ensures the future of military technology is built right here in the United States.”
“The Research Triangle is a world-renowned hub of research and innovation, and our workforce and institutions stand ready to lead the country’s development of emerging defense technologies,” said Rep. Ross. “This bill will not only strengthen our national security, but it will also reward American ingenuity and boost North Carolina’s local economy. I’m honored to join my colleagues in introducing legislation that will ensure the United States remains a global leader in technological innovation.”
Read the full bill text HERE.