The University of Alaska Fairbanks and the federal Defense Innovation Unit announced on May 8 a new three-year collaboration focused on advancing technology for U.S. military needs.
The partnership aims to speed up the development and production of technologies that support national defense, energy resilience, and Arctic research. The initial focus areas include energy, hypersonics, drone operations, remote sensing, and space systems.
According to U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan, “Alaska is one of the most strategically important places in the world for America’s national defense, and the University of Alaska Fairbanks is already a world-class intellectual hub for Arctic research, unmanned systems and cold-weather innovation. The agreement between DIU and UAF is a major step toward turning Alaska’s unique geography into a high-tech advantage for our military. If new technology can survive a winter in Fairbanks, it can survive in almost any Arctic environment on the planet. By pairing DIU’s mission to rapidly field commercial technology with UAF’s research expertise, the 11th Airborne Division, Eielson Air Force Base and Alaska’s unmatched training ranges, this agreement provides an opportunity to build a private sector defense industrial base right here in Alaska. This is another important milestone in Alaska’s military comeback and a big win for UAF, Fairbanks, and the men and women in uniform who need the best technology America can deliver.”
Senator Lisa Murkowski said: “Alaska’s rugged Arctic environment provides the ideal setting for this partnership between the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the Defense Innovation Unit, creating new opportunities for some of our nation’s brightest researchers to advance energy technologies and strengthen our national defense capabilities. UAF’s world-class personnel and expertise are already at the forefront of emerging 21st century technologies, from unmanned aerial systems to thermal energy research, and this collaboration will further drive investment and research opportunities that benefit both Alaska and our nation.”
UAF Interim Chancellor Mike Sfraga said: “UAF is home to unmatched expertise in the unique challenges of Arctic conditions and landscape. Our scientists and innovators are uniquely qualified to contribute to the military’s ability to conduct safe and effective operations in the region.”
Owen West, director of Defense Innovation Unit said: “This week’s signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Defense Innovation Unit and University of Alaska Fairbanks gives national security a boost from North. Alaska is a strategic engine for national security we can now leverage UAF’s extraordinary expertise sharpen our military edge. Thanks this agreement DIU partner with experts critical technologies such as energy hypersonics drone warfare while enabling cold-weather research essential Arctic operations enhancing readiness extreme environments.”
The university says it maintains several partnerships with military organizations aimed at supporting direct services as well as conducting research relevant to national security.
