# DoD Addresses Research Enterprise Challenges

The Department of Defense is confronting significant non-technical challenges within its research enterprise that affect technology development and innovation. Key issues include aging research facilities, protracted security clearance processes, and intense competition for scientific talent. Dr. Joseph Jewell, Assistant Secretary for Science and Technology, emphasizes that addressing these operational obstacles is critical to enhancing the DoD's research capabilities and accelerating technology advancement.

- Procurement professionals should anticipate potential increases in facility modernization contracts and infrastructure upgrades to support research activities.
- The lengthy security clearance process may impact contractor onboarding timelines, requiring strategic planning for staffing and compliance.
- Competition for scientific talent suggests opportunities for contractors specializing in workforce development, recruitment, and retention services tailored to defense research needs.
- Organizations involved in defense technology development should consider how these operational factors influence program schedules and resource allocation.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 25, 2026

### Government Entities
- Department of Defense (DoD)

### Sources
- [
        Federal News Network | Some of the Pentagon’s toughest technology challenges aren’t technical at all](https://federalnewsnetwork.com/podcast/federal-drive-with-terry-gerton-podcast/some-of-the-pentagons-toughest-technology-challenges-arent-technical-at-all) - Federal News Network