Governor DeWine, Air Force Research Laboratory strengthen partnership to boost innovation and national security

Photo Credit: Ohio Governor’s Office

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Brigadier General Jason Bartolomei, Commander of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) this week, reaffirming Ohio’s strategic partnership with AFRL at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

Why it matters

The agreement deepens collaboration on national defense priorities while expanding Ohio’s leadership in cutting-edge technology development. It focuses on accelerating innovation in areas like AI, autonomous systems, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing—sectors vital to both economic growth and national security.

The details

The new MOU continues previous agreements and emphasizes joint goals like infrastructure development, workforce growth, and university research partnerships.

Ohio will work with AFRL to boost R&D, support dual-use technologies, and strengthen federal competitiveness.

The effort also includes semiconductor research and advanced drone systems.

What they’re saying

"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.

"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.

The big picture

With Wright-Patterson AFB and AFRL as major anchors, Ohio is positioning itself as a national leader in defense tech and innovation. The partnership reinforces the state’s role in shaping technologies that will secure America’s future—and create new economic opportunities at home.