The New Frontier: How Collaboration and Innovation Are Shaping Defense Manufacturing
June 14, 2025, 10:07 am
Location: United States, Virginia, Arlington
Employees: 201-500
Founded date: 1958
In the ever-evolving landscape of defense, innovation is the lifeblood that keeps the machinery running smoothly. The recent partnership between the U.S. Army and the University of Hawaii exemplifies this truth. This collaboration is not just a handshake; it’s a strategic alliance aimed at enhancing warfighter survivability through advanced biomaterials and manufacturing techniques.
The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC) has teamed up with the University of Hawaii System. Their mission? To bolster defense capabilities, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. This partnership operates under a cooperative research and development agreement (CRADA), allowing both entities to explore new frontiers in defense technology.
The first joint work statement (JWS) is a testament to this innovative spirit. Dr. Jason Barnhill from the University of Hawaii and Priscilla Lee from DEVCOM CBC are diving into the world of bioprinting. They aim to create sophisticated organ models that can evaluate compounds critical to the Department of Defense. Imagine a world where bioprinting can produce organ models that help develop treatments for burns, poisonous gases, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This is not science fiction; it’s happening now.
The second JWS focuses on advanced manufacturing capabilities. The goal is to create a robust regional network that enhances supply chain resilience and fosters defense innovation. This is a crucial step in a world where threats are constantly evolving. The collaboration aims to streamline information sharing and bolster collective efforts in defense.
This partnership is part of a broader trend within the Department of Defense. The military is increasingly turning to academic institutions to drive innovation. Texas A&M University, for instance, received $1.6 million from DARPA to develop a system that accelerates the assessment of 3D printed parts. The aim is to cut evaluation times from 18 months to just three days. This could save millions and facilitate the wider adoption of additive manufacturing.
The push for innovation doesn’t stop there. In 2021, the Department of Defense awarded $25.5 million to 18 university-led projects aimed at accelerating hypersonic flight research. This includes advancements in 3D printing, machine learning, and non-destructive testing. The University Consortium for Applied Hypersonics (UCAH) is at the forefront of this initiative, bringing together universities, industrial partners, and national laboratories.
As the U.S. military looks to the future, the need for advanced technologies becomes increasingly clear. The collaboration between the Army and the University of Hawaii is a shining example of how partnerships can lead to groundbreaking advancements. But it’s not just about technology; it’s about saving lives. The innovations born from this partnership could mean the difference between life and death for soldiers on the front lines.
On another front, Serco Inc. is navigating the shifting tides of federal contracting under the Trump administration. The company, ranked No. 30 on the 2025 Top 100 list, has positioned itself well by focusing on efficiency and cost savings. With $1.3 billion in prime contract obligations, Serco has made strategic investments that align with the administration’s priorities.
Under CEO Tom Watson, Serco has shifted towards high-end services, integrating technology into its operations. Recent acquisitions, including a $327 million deal for Northrop Grumman’s mission training and satellite ground network communications business, have expanded Serco’s footprint in the defense sector. This move not only increases revenue but also enhances the company’s capabilities in supporting the Navy, Army, and Air Force.
The Trump administration’s emphasis on readiness and efficiency aligns perfectly with Serco’s strategic direction. The company has secured contracts that support the modernization of the Navy, including a $97 million contract for public shipyard improvements. This is a timely win, as the administration pushes for a more modern and efficient fleet.
Serco is also pioneering autonomous systems through its work on the No Manning Required Ship (NOMARS) program. This initiative aims to develop unmanned vessels that can operate with minimal human intervention. The Defiant, a large unmanned surface vessel, is a prime example. It boasts advanced collision avoidance and navigation systems, representing a significant leap forward in naval technology.
Moreover, Serco’s $247 million contract for the Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness program underscores its commitment to enhancing soldier readiness. This program focuses on optimizing physical and mental performance, reducing injury rates, and streamlining rehabilitation processes. It’s a holistic approach to soldier training, integrating strength and conditioning with cognitive performance.
The landscape of defense manufacturing is changing. Partnerships between academic institutions and defense organizations are fostering innovation. Companies like Serco are adapting to new priorities, positioning themselves for success in a competitive environment.
As the U.S. military embraces these advancements, the future looks promising. The collaboration between the Army and the University of Hawaii, along with the strategic maneuvers of companies like Serco, are paving the way for a new era in defense technology. This is not just about contracts and agreements; it’s about creating a safer world for those who serve. The stakes are high, but so are the rewards. The journey has just begun, and the horizon is filled with possibilities.
The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC) has teamed up with the University of Hawaii System. Their mission? To bolster defense capabilities, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. This partnership operates under a cooperative research and development agreement (CRADA), allowing both entities to explore new frontiers in defense technology.
The first joint work statement (JWS) is a testament to this innovative spirit. Dr. Jason Barnhill from the University of Hawaii and Priscilla Lee from DEVCOM CBC are diving into the world of bioprinting. They aim to create sophisticated organ models that can evaluate compounds critical to the Department of Defense. Imagine a world where bioprinting can produce organ models that help develop treatments for burns, poisonous gases, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This is not science fiction; it’s happening now.
The second JWS focuses on advanced manufacturing capabilities. The goal is to create a robust regional network that enhances supply chain resilience and fosters defense innovation. This is a crucial step in a world where threats are constantly evolving. The collaboration aims to streamline information sharing and bolster collective efforts in defense.
This partnership is part of a broader trend within the Department of Defense. The military is increasingly turning to academic institutions to drive innovation. Texas A&M University, for instance, received $1.6 million from DARPA to develop a system that accelerates the assessment of 3D printed parts. The aim is to cut evaluation times from 18 months to just three days. This could save millions and facilitate the wider adoption of additive manufacturing.
The push for innovation doesn’t stop there. In 2021, the Department of Defense awarded $25.5 million to 18 university-led projects aimed at accelerating hypersonic flight research. This includes advancements in 3D printing, machine learning, and non-destructive testing. The University Consortium for Applied Hypersonics (UCAH) is at the forefront of this initiative, bringing together universities, industrial partners, and national laboratories.
As the U.S. military looks to the future, the need for advanced technologies becomes increasingly clear. The collaboration between the Army and the University of Hawaii is a shining example of how partnerships can lead to groundbreaking advancements. But it’s not just about technology; it’s about saving lives. The innovations born from this partnership could mean the difference between life and death for soldiers on the front lines.
On another front, Serco Inc. is navigating the shifting tides of federal contracting under the Trump administration. The company, ranked No. 30 on the 2025 Top 100 list, has positioned itself well by focusing on efficiency and cost savings. With $1.3 billion in prime contract obligations, Serco has made strategic investments that align with the administration’s priorities.
Under CEO Tom Watson, Serco has shifted towards high-end services, integrating technology into its operations. Recent acquisitions, including a $327 million deal for Northrop Grumman’s mission training and satellite ground network communications business, have expanded Serco’s footprint in the defense sector. This move not only increases revenue but also enhances the company’s capabilities in supporting the Navy, Army, and Air Force.
The Trump administration’s emphasis on readiness and efficiency aligns perfectly with Serco’s strategic direction. The company has secured contracts that support the modernization of the Navy, including a $97 million contract for public shipyard improvements. This is a timely win, as the administration pushes for a more modern and efficient fleet.
Serco is also pioneering autonomous systems through its work on the No Manning Required Ship (NOMARS) program. This initiative aims to develop unmanned vessels that can operate with minimal human intervention. The Defiant, a large unmanned surface vessel, is a prime example. It boasts advanced collision avoidance and navigation systems, representing a significant leap forward in naval technology.
Moreover, Serco’s $247 million contract for the Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness program underscores its commitment to enhancing soldier readiness. This program focuses on optimizing physical and mental performance, reducing injury rates, and streamlining rehabilitation processes. It’s a holistic approach to soldier training, integrating strength and conditioning with cognitive performance.
The landscape of defense manufacturing is changing. Partnerships between academic institutions and defense organizations are fostering innovation. Companies like Serco are adapting to new priorities, positioning themselves for success in a competitive environment.
As the U.S. military embraces these advancements, the future looks promising. The collaboration between the Army and the University of Hawaii, along with the strategic maneuvers of companies like Serco, are paving the way for a new era in defense technology. This is not just about contracts and agreements; it’s about creating a safer world for those who serve. The stakes are high, but so are the rewards. The journey has just begun, and the horizon is filled with possibilities.