Biotech boosters win big in both HASC, SASC defense policy bills for FY26
Both the House and Senate Armed Services Committees voted to streamline Pentagon procurement of biologically-derived materials, from first aid treatments to novel explosives.
Congressional biotech commission calls for $15B over 5 years to catch up to China
Over $1 billion would pass through the Pentagon, researching shelf-stable blood for casualties, new lubricants for engines, more powerful explosives, and more. Commission Chairman Sen. Todd Young hopes to get the first funds in the 2026 NDAA.
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Breaking the Pentagon’s new bottleneck of time
As threats evolve, the winning model ties digital engineering to manufacturing capacity and a reindustrialized supply chain.
Promising biotech startups ‘dying on the vine’: In-Q-Tel
While billions pour into pharmaceutical biotech, officials and experts warn there’s much less private investment in products more relevant to the military, like body armor materials, anti-corrosion coatings, and explosives.
China Bill Doubles DARPA’s Budget, Adds $52B For US Chips
"This is a strong start," Sen. Sasse said of the 2,400-page, $250 billion legislation designed to bolster the US in its competition with China.
Sen. Young: ‘Go On Offense’ In China Tech Race; Bipartisan Bill Gathers Steam
"Some do not believe this is an appropriate role for the government..." Republican Sen. Young said in an interview. "...[B]ut, simply, the private sector and venture capital community is not up to shouldering this task on its own."