University of Arizona Partners with Precise Systems for National Defense Initiative

News Summary

The University of Arizona has partnered with defense contractor Precise Systems, Inc. to compete for the Golden Dome contracts. This collaboration aims to integrate the university’s research capabilities with defense projects, enhancing workforce development and fostering local economic growth. With a potential contract value of $151 billion, the initiative promises to strengthen Arizona’s position in national defense while offering new opportunities for students and faculty. The partnership underscores the university’s commitment to national security and innovation in addressing critical defense challenges.

Phoenix, AZ — The University of Arizona (U of A), a cornerstone of Arizona’s higher education landscape, has joined a prominent team positioned to compete for a share of the ambitious Golden Dome contracts. This strategic partnership with defense contractor Precise Systems, Inc. represents a significant stride for the university, reinforcing its role in national security initiatives and further integrating its cutting-edge research and talent into the state’s robust defense economy. The collaboration underscores the commitment to academic rigor and practical application, promising new avenues for student growth and institutional excellence.

This endeavor highlights how Arizona’s academic institutions are pivotal in addressing critical national needs while fostering local economic development. By leveraging its expertise, U of A is not only contributing to a vital national defense project but also enhancing opportunities for its students, faculty, and the wider community in Southern Arizona, where a strong defense ecosystem already thrives. This initiative aligns with the university’s mission to drive innovation and prepare the next generation of leaders for high-impact careers.

Forging a Critical Partnership for National Security

The University of Arizona has formally partnered with Precise Systems, Inc., a professional services company known for its extensive support to the U.S. Department of Defense and other federal agencies. This alliance positions U of A to compete for task orders under the Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense (SHIELD) contract, which is the primary acquisition vehicle for the broader Golden Dome initiative. Precise Systems, Inc. specializes in technical, engineering, logistics, programmatic, security, and training support, with a significant focus on naval aviation programs, electronic warfare, and cybersecurity. The company has a substantial track record, having received over $2.5 billion in federal contracts.

This collaboration reflects a shared vision to deliver resilient architectures, modern engineering approaches, and emerging technologies crucial for complex mission spaces. The partnership aims to combine industry leadership with academic innovation, creating a formidable team capable of addressing the intricate demands of national defense projects.

The $151 Billion SHIELD Contract and Golden Dome Vision

The Golden Dome initiative, for which the SHIELD contract vehicle is central, is a comprehensive U.S. effort to establish a layered homeland missile defense architecture. With a projected value of up to $151 billion over 10 years, the SHIELD contract aims to integrate legacy systems, sensors, new interceptors, command and control, cyber, and space-based systems to detect, track, intercept, and neutralize threats from all vectors. The Missile Defense Agency (MDA), along with other Department of Defense components, will utilize this contract to issue task and delivery orders.

The core objective of Golden Dome is to provide continuous, layered protection against air, missile, space, cyber, and hybrid threats. The system envisions space-based interceptors designed to detect and destroy hypersonic, cruise, and ballistic missiles, thereby enhancing the nation’s defensive capabilities. This massive undertaking represents one of the largest potential defense contracts in U.S. history, requiring broad expertise across numerous technical areas.

Catalyst for Arizona’s Defense Ecosystem

U of A’s participation in this high-profile endeavor significantly bolsters Southern Arizona’s already strong national defense ecosystem. The region is a vital hub for military operations and defense industries, home to major installations such as Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and Fort Huachuca. These military bases, alongside private sector giants like Sargent Aerospace and Defense, Raytheon Missiles and Defense, and Paragon Space Development, contribute substantially to the state’s economy.

Arizona consistently ranks among the top states for defense spending, benefiting from over $17 billion in federal defense spending in Fiscal Year 2023, placing it eighth nationally. The aerospace and defense industry statewide generates an estimated $29.5 billion in economic impact and supports over 62,000 direct jobs. U of A’s involvement in Golden Dome is expected to further integrate academic research with defense industry needs, fostering a more resilient and innovative regional economy.

Academic Excellence and Student Advancement

This partnership creates substantial academic and research opportunities for U of A students and faculty, serving as a powerful driver for workforce development. The university maintains a top-secret clearance facility, enabling direct collaboration with the Department of Defense on cutting-edge defense technologies. U of A’s College of Engineering boasts highly-ranked graduate programs, with aerospace engineering programs specifically recognized among the top 30 nationwide. The college provides an entrepreneurial environment where graduate students actively drive research in interdisciplinary areas, including defense and homeland security.

Through programs like those focused on Intelligence & Information Operations, students are prepared to join the front lines of intelligence and cyber defense, equipped with skills for high-demand careers in national defense and related industries. The university’s commitment extends to exposing both faculty and students to real-world national security challenges through competitively funded DoD research programs, which also offer mentorship and professional development opportunities. Such initiatives are crucial for shaping future leaders and innovators in critical defense sectors.

Innovation Driving Economic Impact

The University of Arizona’s commitment to translating discovery into action is evident in its robust innovation ecosystem. Tech Launch Arizona, the university’s office dedicated to commercializing inventions, helps transform high-tech research into sustainable businesses. This proactive approach ensures that academic breakthroughs contribute directly to economic growth.

Notably, three U of A-affiliated startups—DeUVe Photonics, FreeFall Aerospace, and CM Laser Technologies—are already part of the Precise Systems consortium for Golden Dome projects. These ventures, along with many others, benefit from the support of UA Venture Capital, which has invested over $30 million to help launch and grow 14 U of A startups. This synergy between academic research, entrepreneurial spirit, and strategic investment plays a vital role in fueling Arizona’s economic development and its standing as a leader in technological innovation.

A Broader Commitment to State and National Defense

U of A’s involvement in the Golden Dome initiative aligns with broader statewide efforts to strengthen university-defense collaboration. The Arizona Board of Regents has launched an initiative aimed at enhancing partnerships between Arizona’s public universities, military installations, and the U.S. Department of Defense. This collective effort recognizes the critical role universities play in national security, particularly in fields such as cybersecurity, hypersonics, defense technologies, and workforce development.

By focusing on collaborative research and technology transfer, U of A and its sister institutions are improving the agility and resiliency of U.S. national security while boosting student preparedness for in-demand defense careers and empowering greater research innovation. This integrated approach ensures that Arizona continues to make significant contributions to both state and national security priorities, solidifying its position as a key contributor to the nation’s defense infrastructure. The university’s National Security Initiatives focus on partnerships with defense, intelligence, and industry to advance research and develop the future workforce.

The University of Arizona’s engagement in the Golden Dome initiative is a testament to its enduring dedication to academic excellence, impactful research, and community service. This partnership with Precise Systems, Inc. for the multi-billion-dollar SHIELD contract not only positions U of A at the forefront of national missile defense but also promises substantial benefits for students, faculty, and the economic prosperity of Arizona. Readers are encouraged to explore the diverse research programs and collaborations at the University of Arizona to learn more about how its innovations are shaping the future of national security and contributing to Arizona AZ’s higher education and economic landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Golden Dome initiative?

The Golden Dome initiative is a comprehensive U.S. effort to establish a layered homeland missile defense architecture designed to detect, track, intercept, and neutralize threats from all vectors, including hypersonic, cruise, and ballistic missiles.

What is the potential value of the SHIELD contract U of A is competing for?

The SHIELD (Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense) contract, which is the primary acquisition vehicle for the Golden Dome initiative, has a projected value of up to $151 billion over 10 years.

Who is the University of Arizona partnering with for this initiative?

The University of Arizona has partnered with defense contractor Precise Systems, Inc.

How will this partnership benefit students and faculty at the University of Arizona?

This partnership creates substantial academic and research opportunities, preparing students for high-demand careers in national defense. U of A’s top-secret clearance facility allows direct collaboration with the Department of Defense, and students and faculty will engage in cutting-edge defense technology research.

What is the impact of this collaboration on Arizona’s defense ecosystem?

U of A’s participation further bolsters Southern Arizona’s strong national defense ecosystem, which includes major military installations and private defense companies. Arizona ranks among the top states nationally for federal defense spending and contract awards.

Are any U of A startups involved in the Golden Dome projects?

Yes, three U of A-affiliated startups—DeUVe Photonics, FreeFall Aerospace, and CM Laser Technologies—are part of the Precise Systems consortium for Golden Dome projects.

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