Defense Technology Hubs Act of 2026
Sponsored By: Representative Bell, Wesley [D-MO-1]
Introduced
Summary
Creates a Defense Technology Hubs Program that would designate and support regional centers to speed research, prototyping, and transition of emerging defense technologies. This program would link DoD, industry, universities, and local governments to attract talent and move prototypes into operational use.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.
Faster contracting for small hub projects
If enacted, the Secretary could waive applicable acquisition rules for Program projects with total costs under $10,000,000 to speed development and prototyping. Any waivers would need to be consistent with similar authorities that existed the day before enactment. This change would take effect 180 days after enactment.
Security and IP rules for hubs
If enacted, hubs would have to follow Department of Defense cybersecurity standards and meet ITAR and EAR export controls. Hubs would be required to bar foreign entities of concern and to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive research. The program would require hubs to establish processes to sponsor and hold security clearances for classified work, and the Secretary would coordinate enforcement with the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency. The Secretary would also set intellectual property rules so the Department can keep rights needed for defense uses while allowing consortium members to pursue commercial opportunities. These rules would take effect 180 days after enactment.
New regional defense tech hubs program
If enacted, the bill would create a Defense Technology Hubs Program run by the Secretary of Defense. The program would aim to designate at least 10 regional hubs within three years and would begin 180 days after enactment. The bill would authorize $375 million for FY2026–2030 and make $75 million of that available for grants to designated hubs. The federal share of a hub's annual program costs would be limited to 50 percent, so hubs would need matching non‑federal funding each fiscal year.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Bell, Wesley [D-MO-1]
MO • D
Cosponsors
Rep. Ross, Deborah K. [D-NC-2]
NC • D
Sponsored 2/3/2026
Hudson
NC • R
Sponsored 2/3/2026
Messmer
IN • R
Sponsored 2/3/2026
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
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