BEAVERCREEK, Ohio - Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Brigadier General Jason Bartolomei, Commander of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, mutually signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) this morning renewing the partnership between AFRL and the state. 

The new MOU is an extension of previous agreements signed by representatives of the state and AFRL. The agreement formalizes the partnership between the two entities to execute Air Force and Space Force missions while also fostering advanced research, industrial partnerships, and economic development within the state. 

DETAILS: Signed Memorandum of Understanding

"This unified approach is more than a strategic advantage - it is a national necessity. In a world defined by technological competition, the United States must lead in key areas like artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, cyber security, and a resilient supply chain," said Governor DeWine. "The technologies developed at the Air Force Research Laboratory will impact our national security for decades to come, and Ohio is pleased to closely partner with the lab to advance these technologies with innovation and speed."

"Ohio is not just any state - it's a powerhouse of innovation, a hub of technological expertise, and a vital partner in our national security ecosystem," said Brig. Gen. Bartolomei. "This MOU is about solidifying a commitment to leveraging the incredible talent and resources that exist within Ohio to accelerate the development of critical technologies."

Goals of the partnership include, but are not limited to, facility and infrastructure development; increased job opportunities, economic growth, and workforce development; increased competitiveness for research proposals; development of new university and outreach programs; enhanced collaboration on sustainable semiconductor ecosystem; and expanded collaboration on advanced drone technology.