Washington, D.C.-Today, U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), Deborah Ross (D-N.C.), Richard Hudson (R-N.C.), and Mark Messmer (R-Ind.) introduced the bipartisan Defense Technology Hubs Act of 2026, directing the Department of Defense to create a nationwide network of regional hubs focused on accelerating emerging defense technologies.

These hubs would support talent development, technology transition, and collaboration among universities, defense partners, nonprofits, and local governments. By expanding innovation capacity and strengthening workforce pipelines, the bill reinforces U.S. national security and enables communities nationwide to contribute to the future of American defense.

"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."

"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.

The Defense Technology Hubs Act of 2026is supported by Greater St. Louis Inc.

"Home to Boeing Defense, St. Louis has some of the world's top talent and workforce, universities and innovation centers, and national defense leadership," said Ron Kitchens, Managing Director of Greater St. Louis, Inc. "By bringing all of these assets together in the spirit of collaboration, the Defense Tech Hub Bill will plant a flag in support of St. Louis' leadership on national security and drive economic growth for the region's future."

Rep. Bell is a member of the House Armed Services Committee and a member of the House Defense Modernization Caucus.

Read the full bill text here(link is external).

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