Capital District Times

In a recent report by the Oneida Daily Dispatch, it was revealed that Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has successfully secured an impressive $415 million in defense spending for the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory in the City of Rome. Stefanik made the announcement during her visit to Rome Labs, emphasizing the significance of the funding for defense research in the region.

Stefanik expressed her pride in this achievement, stating, "I am proud to announce that I secured over $415 million in defense spending for the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory in the City of Rome through this year’s appropriations process." She highlighted the diverse areas where the funding will be allocated, including quantum research, cyber technology, and counter-UAS efforts.

The congresswoman emphasized the importance of Rome Labs as a leader in defense technology research, stating, "We’re not only the leader in New York, the leader in the United States of America, but we’re the global leader when it comes to these emerging technologies." Stefanik also introduced the Defense Quantum Acceleration Act bill during her visit, aiming to advance Quantum Information Science and establish Rome, New York, as a hub for quantum computing.

The funding secured by Stefanik will support various defense research technologies, including investments in quantum computing, cyberspace dominance technology, and Future Flag operational experimentation. State and local officials, including State Sen. Joesph Griffo, Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente Jr., Rome Mayor Jeffrey Lanigan, and Griffiss Institute President and CEO Heather Hage, joined Stefanik during her visit, showing support for the initiative.

Looking ahead, Stefanik expressed her enthusiasm for further collaborations and community support, stating, "I’m looking forward to building on these partnerships and looking forward to earning the support from voters in the portions of Oneida County that have been added to my congressional district."

The significant funding secured by Congresswoman Elise Stefanik underscores the commitment to advancing defense research and technology in Rome, positioning the region as a key player in national and global security efforts.