This bill authorizes the Secretary of Defense to establish a program aimed at strengthening the defense biotechnology supply chain by developing, scaling, and transitioning biotechnology research from military service laboratories. The program focuses on creating bio-based chemicals, materials, and fuels to enhance the resilience, sustainability, and responsiveness of the defense supply chain, thereby reducing reliance on foreign and vulnerable sources. Key activities include assessing supply chain vulnerabilities, directing military laboratories to conduct applied research in bioindustrials and biomanufacturing, and upgrading infrastructure for development and prototyping. The Secretary may also enter into partnerships with various entities and support workforce development initiatives. The program prioritizes technologies that address critical defense supply chain vulnerabilities, enhance military readiness, and improve cost efficiency, such as field-enabled manufacturing and novel material development. If implemented, the Secretary must submit an initial funding plan and provide annual reports to Congress detailing program activities, research efforts, and performance metrics. The program is authorized for 10 years, with a provision for presidential extension if national economic or security needs require it.
To authorize the Secretary of Defense to carry out a program to support the defense biotechnology supply chain, and for other purposes.
USA119th CongressHR-5186| House
| Updated: 9/8/2025
This bill authorizes the Secretary of Defense to establish a program aimed at strengthening the defense biotechnology supply chain by developing, scaling, and transitioning biotechnology research from military service laboratories. The program focuses on creating bio-based chemicals, materials, and fuels to enhance the resilience, sustainability, and responsiveness of the defense supply chain, thereby reducing reliance on foreign and vulnerable sources. Key activities include assessing supply chain vulnerabilities, directing military laboratories to conduct applied research in bioindustrials and biomanufacturing, and upgrading infrastructure for development and prototyping. The Secretary may also enter into partnerships with various entities and support workforce development initiatives. The program prioritizes technologies that address critical defense supply chain vulnerabilities, enhance military readiness, and improve cost efficiency, such as field-enabled manufacturing and novel material development. If implemented, the Secretary must submit an initial funding plan and provide annual reports to Congress detailing program activities, research efforts, and performance metrics. The program is authorized for 10 years, with a provision for presidential extension if national economic or security needs require it.