2007 Federal Agenda

Delegation Senator Richard C. Shelby 110 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510-0103 202-224-5744 • 202-224-3416 fax senator@shelby.senate.gov Senator Jeff Sessions 335 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510-0104 202-224-4124 • 202-224-3149 fax senator@sessions.senate.gov

Congressman Bud Cramer 2184 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515-0105 202-225-4801 • 202-225-7623 fax budmail@mail.house.gov Congressman Robert B. Aderholt 1433 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515-0104 202-225-4876 • 202-225-5587 fax robert.aderholt@mail.house.gov

Federal Agenda 2007

Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County, Alabama

An Open Letter to the Alabama Congressional Delegation:

We sincerely appreciate the Alabama Congressional Delegation for the focused leadership and hard work that champions our interests so effectively. The Alabama Congressional Delegation has made it possible for Huntsville / Madison County to become a world leader in engineering, research and development. We are uniquely postured to build on our outstanding legacy by pioneering new space exploration and military systems, maintaining U.S. preeminence. In this Agenda, the Chamber outlines the most pressing issues and key priorities for the North Alabama business community. We are excited about the future of Redstone Arsenal, NASA-MSFC and the Huntsville/Madison County community. With your continued leadership and diligence we look forward to the timely implementation of the 2005 BRAC recommendations. We respectfully request your continued defense of Redstone and its programs and strong support of NASA’s space exploration programs. The biotechnology research sector also has strong potential for growth with your continued support. A common and important theme exists across all of our commands and agencies. Funding and support for science and technology (S&T) continues to be inadequate and will endanger the long term program technology needs. Science & Technology funding is the life-blood of capability and the basis for developing the next generation of leaders, engineers, and scientists that will carry out the programs and missions for decades to come. The Chamber requests the Delegation support a consistent and stable S&T budget that invests in the future of Huntsville/Madison County and our continued growth as a National leader.

Summary of Chamber Priority Requests: Continued Diligence in BRAC Implementation & Funding Support

Cooperative Institute for Remote Sensing ■ Establish and fund a NOAA Cooperative Institute for Remote

Sensing at UAH

Strong Support for Global S&T Funding Missile and Space Intelligence Center Missile Defense ■ Full Funding for GMD ■ Additional Funding for GMD Concurrent Test & Operations

■ Increase Funding for GDIP S&T ■ Support and Expand MSIC Communications and Computing

Infrastructure

■ Full Funding for MKV ■ Reinstatement of KEI Funding and Schedule ■ Increase Funding for Missile Defense S&T

Cruise Missile Defense ■ Full funding of SLAMRAAM, JLENS, IFCS ■ Increase Funding for Cruise Missile S&T

Directed Energy Applications ■ Move ADS and Zeus to Programs of Record & Fully Fund

Tactical Missile S&T ■ Increase funding for Tactical Missile S&T

Operationally Responsive Space ■ Full funding of SMDC TacSat and Operationally Responsive

Space Unfunded Requirements

Department of Homeland Security ■ Establish a Regional DHS S&T Office in Huntsville

■ Increase Funding for Directed Energy S&T

Nanotechnology Research Institute NASA

■ Increase funding for AMRDEC Nanotechnology Initiative

■ Pass a Robust NASA Budget ■ Full Funding for Ares Development

8

Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County 225 Church Street Huntsville, AL 35801 phone 256.535.2000 fax 256.535.2015 www.HuntsvilleAlabamaUSA.com

Infrastructure

■ Full Funding for Lunar Precursor Robotic Program

■ Funding for the Southern Bypass Highway

■ Full funding for MSFC Science Missions

■ Support US 72 East / ARC Corridor V ■ Support US 231 Overpass and Corridor Improvements

Army Aviation ■ Increase funding for Rotary Wing S&T

■ Increase funding for the Port of Huntsville International

Intermodal Center

■ Full funding for Joint Heavy Lift Technology Demonstration

& Design 1

MISSILE DEFENSE Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (MKV) In September, 2006, the most operationally realistic test of the GMD system was successfully conducted. In 2007, additional flight testing will occur as well as continued integration of sensor capabilities and the emplacement of additional ground-based interceptors. A highlight for 2007 will be the continued support provided to the Missile Defense Agency on planning and integrating a European groundbased interceptor weapon system into the GMD system. The North Korean missile launches of the long range Taipodong-2, coupled with the announced determination of Iran to “join the club of nuclear countries,” are alarming sign posts for 2007. The GMD system, capable of intercepting long range nuclear missiles, is increasingly vital to U.S. security. For this reason, the Chamber recommends the delegation continue its support for full funding for GMD, to include the European Site, research and development, testing and placement of additional interceptors. Over 2000 jobs in North Alabama directly support the GMD program. Continued, strong support of GMD is the community’s first priority.

GMD Concurrent Test and Operations (CTO) Our Nation’s missile defense systems, particularly GMD, must be ready to exercise the warfighting mission. These systems must also undergo adequate testing and the GMD program employs CTO to continuously perform both functions. Development of this capability requires redundant equipment for some system elements and technology application to separate test functionality from operational functionality. This approach enables simultaneous test support while retaining readiness to deploy. CTO development will make significant progress in FY 2007, but additional advanced technology funding is needed. The planned technology advancements are not high risk but focused integration efforts and rigorous testing needs necessitate additional funding. The leverage of CTO investment for GMD and for all of the elements of the global BMDS, will be extremely high for system performance and operational readiness.

Multiple Kill Vehicle (MKV) The Missile Defense Agency, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command and U.S. Army Forces Strategic Command Technical Center are developing a Multiple Kill Vehicle (MKV) capability. MKV will provide system robustness to defeat evolving and advancing threats. MDA has transformed the MKV program from a technology demonstration to a development and test program. Consequently, MKV will conduct component demonstration and test prototype activities in FY07-FY09 and design, build and test MKV critical elements. These efforts will deliver MKV capability with balanced performance and risk. The Chamber encourages full funding for MKV to ensure timely demonstration and development.

Kinetic Energy Interceptor (KEI) The Kinetic Energy Interceptor (KEI), under development in Huntsville, will engage targets in the boost, ascent and early midcourse phases. KEI development began after U.S. withdrew from the ABM Treaty and can be forward-based, mobile and more robust and affordable. KEI is meeting all critical milestones and is on schedule for a 2008 booster test flight. The 2008 President’s Budget cuts the current KEI program by nearly $4B over the next 5 years. If realized, these cuts will stop development of mobile launcher, mobile autonomous fire control, and boost phase defense capabilities. The cuts will also delay delivery of this greatly reduced capability by at least 2 years and limit the baseline mission capability to midcourse defense and fixed site only. The Chamber strongly believes that all components (e.g., interceptor, 2

launcher, and fire control/communications) must proceed together and that full system capability must be maintained. The Chamber requests that FY08 KEI funding be provided consistent with the POM `07 extended funding plan to maintain the KEI schedule and critical mobility and boost phase defense features.

formance capability resulting in a 70 lb increase in payload for the aircraft. Both of these efforts can be accelerated with investment funding now.

Missile Defense S&T

Over the past decade, UASs have become an integral part of the United States military. However, a significant challenge that could hinder the growth and further incorporation of UASs into the U.S. military is the ability to operate in the U.S. National Airspace System (NAS) and airspace worldwide. Track 1 efforts are estimated to cost approximately $4M that will support data collection, safety analysis, support equipment, and testing of new technologies to support early sense and avoid capabilities that can be reconfigured as a deployable system. This effort supports the PM-UAS and the Aviation Engineering Directorate (AED) in the push to resolve NAS operating issues.

A continuous pipeline of Missile Defense technology must be maintained to enable asymmetric responses to the evolving threat and continuous performance upgrade of critical missile defense functions. The Chamber recognizes Project Hercules and Multiple Kill Vehicles (MKV) as promising technology rich programs consistent with those. Additional emphasis must be placed on technologies to stay ahead of the rapidly accelerating threat. Critical missile defense functions such as discrimination must be reactive to advancing threats and developed in conjunction with essential sensor and battle management resources. The Chamber requests increased priority for missile defense advanced technology and to affect long term stability for this underfunded program. For Additional Missile Defense Topics; Please see “Missile Defense” in the Appendix

CRUISE MISSILE DEFENSE Cruise Missile Defense is of paramount importance to national security. Given the vast number of threats and the sophisticated hypersonic missile programs being conducted by foreign governments, it is time to make significant investments in cruise missile defense capabilities. Development of the Surfaced Launched AMRAAM (SLAMRAAM) System and award of the Joint Land Attack Cruise Missile Defense Elevated Netted Sensor System (JLENS) contract is significant progress. SLAMRAAM provides significant ground force capabilities by combining the proven AMRAAM missile with an Integrated Fire Control System (IFCS). The IFCS provides greatly improved battle management capabilities and is the first step in fielding a System of Systems capability. JLENS is a critical component of the Army Air and Missile Defense future force and an elevated sensor for providing persistent surveillance cueing and fire control quality data to ground-based shooters. The Tactical High Energy Laser (THEL) has successfully defeated cruise missile systems in supersonic and subsonic fight. An integrated cruise missile defense system, consisting of improved sensors, battle management system (IFCS), and a combination of kinetic and directed energy counter-measures provides the best defense against this very real threat to the United States homeland, and its interests around the globe. The Chamber asks that Congress fully fund these programs to prevent any delay in fielding these critical capabilities to defend the United States against the cruise missile threat.

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Operations in the National Airspace System (NAS)

Army Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Weaponization The high demand for unmanned aerial systems to deliver lethal effects establishes a sense of urgency to expand the Army’s missile technology base to address UAS near-term (6.3/6.4) rapid fielding needs. This initiative will support cooperative work between PMJAMS, PM-UAS, and AMRDEC. The focus of this investment for phase 1 ($3M) will be to accelerate the Army’s weapon research and development for seekers, guidance, warheads, propulsion, carriage systems, and integration technology while better supporting UAS system needs and enhancing expedited production and fielding. The efforts will focus on weapon suites optimized to support the currently fielded UAS systems. An additional ($3M) is requested to support the existing Joint Tactical UAS SIL. This effort will leverage significant previous investments in the JTSIL and provide critically needed integration infrastructure. Both of these (6.3/6.4) efforts should be added to the PM-UAS PE.

TACTICAL MISSILE S&T Funding decisions have resulted in tactical missile S&T, modification and upgrade programs being flat-lined, decreased or eliminated. Consequently, there are no new tactical missile programs transitioning from the S&T base into production in the FYDP 08-13. The Chamber requests increased attention and increased investment in Tactical Missile S&T in the following areas:

Agenda APPENDIX

Low Cost Interceptor The Low Cost Interceptor (LCI) program, managed by the Army’s Space and Missile Defense (SMDC), is showing through a proof of concept technology demonstration that a long-range, low-cost missile interceptor can be developed as a cost effective means of defending against the proliferation of unsophisticated air-breathing weapon systems. The threat set for LCI is preparing to defend against include first and second generation cruise missiles, which currently encompass 90% of the cruise class threat, and unmanned aerial vehicles. LCI is intended to be an adjunct that can be integrated into multiple weapon systems, including PAC-3 and the Surface Launched Advanced Medium Range Air to Air Missile (SLAMRAAM) systems. LCI will enable these systems to save their more expensive missiles for use against more sophisticated threats. FY 2007 funding is enabling continued development efforts and component prototype testing. 2008 funding of $25M is requested to enable the program to continue subsystem and system level development and ground tests that will lead to a controlled vehicle flight test in 2009.

EDUCATIONAL ENHANCEMENT & OUTREACH Changing workforce dynamics will require focused training and retraining efforts. To help identify community needs, a series of focus groups should be conducted. These focus groups would lead to the development of a program that is focused on short term training to help individuals, especially high school and college students, equip themselves to meet future workforce needs of the area. $250K is requested that would be shared by educational institutions.

■ Inertia Sensor for Target Discriminator (ISTAR)-$20M over 5 years ■ Nano-batteries-$5M over 5 years ■ Materials and Structures: $3 M per year ■ Propulsion-$26M over 4 years ■ Multi Effects Warheads - $24 M over 5 years ■ Scaleable Effects Warheads: $12M over 4 years ■ Advanced Materials: $17 M over 4 years

The United States maintains a military presence in over 120 countries. Operations, such at the major Counter Insurgency Operations

Federal

■ Next Generation Seekers: $54M

Cruise Missile Defense Science and Technology is equally critical to counter next-generation cruise missiles threats. Increased stealth capability, more sophisticated countermeasures systems and faster systems require investment in advanced radar, discrimination algorithms, high altitude long loiter platforms, and hypersonic propulsion systems. These investment are needed now to develop the defensive capabilities and to ensure systems can defeat the aggregate threat. The Chamber requests additional funding for Cruise Missile S&T programs.

DIRECTED ENERGY APPLICATIONS

Space products and services are a critical component of Army’s transformation into a network-centric Command & Control environment. A critical need is for a seamless "space-to-soldier" integration of this component. The VISTA program is developing these capabilities by leveraging current communication pipelines to identify, obtain, translate and provide space products and services to all levels of Army Battle Command. VISTA will utilize advanced networking technology, adaptive intelligent agents, and knowledge-centric management techniques to vertically and horizontally integrate these products and services rapidly within Army Battle Command systems. Congress funded VISTA at $1.45 million in FY07; $4 million is requested in FY08.

2007

■ Advanced Propulsion: $ 30M

Cruise Missile Defense S&T

Please see “Cruise Missile Defense S&T” in the Appendix

Vertical/horizontal Integration of Space Technologies and Applications (VISTA)

■ Insensitive Munitions: $20 M over 4 years ■ Counter Active Protection Systems (APS) Cost Reduction:

$10 M over 3 years

Unmanned Systems Technology Development (USTD) USTD will expand the legacy of the Unmanned Systems Initiative (USI) to coordinate across technology and Combat Development Centers and focus technology development, interoperability, and integration of unmanned air and ground systems. The Aviation and Missile Research Development and Engineering Center (AMRDEC) will leverage advancements in unmanned ground and aerial system technologies to streamline support to the warfighter. The request is for $10M to the AMRDEC. 7

2007 Federal Agenda

Appendix Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County, Alabama

MISSILE DEFENSE Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) IAMD objectives are to improve performance of air and missile defense systems by better interaction of surveillance and tracking systems with interceptor missiles and to better integrate legacy and emerging systems. Historically, interoperability investments have been provided to air and missile systems in a stove pipe manner. This approach has resulted in systems that are highly integrated within themselves and have limited capabilities to interoperate with other systems. The IAMD network centric upgrades provide for a much more comprehensive degree of interaction. Included with these upgrades are essential command and control elements enabling improved sensor-shooter linkages. The Chamber urges the delegation to support the funding and implementation of IAMD.

Patriot PAC-3 The Patriot PAC-3 system was deployed successfully in Operation Iraqi Freedom and continued testing has confirmed the versatility and effectiveness of the PAC-3 Missile Segment of the Patriot system. Currently eight allied nations have Patriot batteries defending against enemy aircraft and missiles. On January 11, 2007, President Bush announced the deployment of additional PAC-3 interceptors to the Middle East. With the high firepower available from 16 interceptors loaded on a single launcher (compared with only 4 PAC-2 interceptors per launcher), PAC-3 represents a formidable defensive shield against all aerodynamic and tactical ballistic targets. The PAC-3 interceptor has proven its effectiveness in both battlefield and stressing range test environments and it is expected to continue to grow in world-wide deployment. The delegation is encouraged to vigorously sustain their advocacy of the PAC-3 program as a stabilizing response to the growth of the tactical ballistic missile threat.

CRUISE MISSILE DEFENSE S&T The need for investment in Cruise Missile Defense Science and Technologies is critical. Foreign investment in Cruise Missile technology is proliferating and the systems are becoming increasingly accurate. Current US acquisition programs such as Cruise Missile Defense Systems, Lower Tier and Integrated Air and Missile Defense are fielding missile system capabilities to counter current cruise missiles threats. However, there is little investment in the sciences and technologies needed to counter next-generation of cruise missiles, that are currently in work, which are stealthier, employ increasingly more sophisticated countermeasures systems and fly at supersonic and hypersonic speeds. Consequently, investment in advanced radar, discrimination algorithms, high altitude long loiter platforms, and hypersonic propulsion systems are needed now to develop the defensive capabilities needed to ensure are systems be capable of defeating these systems and neutralizing the aggregate threat. The Chamber requests $10M over 4 years for Advanced Radar; $5M over 4 years for Advanced discrimination algorithms; $60M over 5 years for long loiter platforms and $110M over 5 years for Hypersonic propulsion. 6

Space Control and Test Capability SCTC The Space Control and Test Capability program provides a common operating environment and software framework for technical, operational and programmatic support tools for evaluating, testing and improving space control systems. The U.S. must be able to counter a growing threat to all U.S. forces deployed to any theater in the world by having the capability to deny, disrupt, deceive, degrade and/or destroy the ability of current and future adversaries from using hostile space-based assets. The Aviation & Missile Research, Development & Engineering Center (AMREDEC), and Air Force Space Command (AFSPC) recognizes that as new space control systems are being developed, there is a need to integrate them with existing Command and Control systems in an effective and efficient way. To achieve this, adequate analysis and testing is needed to avoid over-taxing existing and future C2 infrastructures. As a response to this need, the program designed and developed the C2 Process Analysis Tool (C2 PAT); the major goal of this tool is to provide a means to attain objective optimization of C2 systems. Currently, the Department of Defense Architecture Framework (DODAF) does not identify subjective or incomplete requirements until well into the implementation phases. Although it provides a method for systematically developing requirements, it does not provide an adequate framework to testing these requirements. The C2 PAT bridges the gap between untested DODAF products and performance tested requirements. It is requested that an FY 2008 budget for the SCTC development program of $10 M be provided in order meet critical objectives.

ARMY AVIATION Manned and Unmanned Teaming The Apache Block III Modernization program is leading the way for the development of Manned/Unmanned teaming concepts and tactics, techniques and procedures. $10 million dollars is needed to procure a developmental unmanned vehicle complete with sensor package and ground control station with ancillary support equipment to support Apache / UAS MUM experimentation at Redstone Arsenal.

Apache Modernized Control Laws / Composite Main Rotor Blade / Tail Rotor Blade Redesign The Army Aviation Safety Investment Team identified that improving the low speed handling qualities of Army helicopters was the number one material fix that should be funded to facilitate reaching the goal of reducing Army Aviation accidents by 50%. Due to funding constraints, Modernized Control Laws fielding will not be initiated until 2012. Fielding could be accelerated by nearly three years with an additional $35M in the near term. The Apache Block III is developing a new composite main rotor blade that increases performance by providing approximately 450 pounds of additional lift. Qualification of this new blade for the current Block II Apaches can be accelerated to achieve a 2009 fielding. The Apache PMO continues to pursue a redesigned tail rotor blade that will reduce O&S costs along with an increased per-

(COIN) in Afghanistan and Iraq demand new equipment and capabilities that provide neighborhood security, prevent criminal activities and respond to terrorist and insurgent activities in a densely populated area. This requires systems that minimize collateral damage to the infrastructure and population. The Active Denial System (ADS) provides non-lethal directed energy solutions to crowd control, route management, area access control, and force protection. This high powered millimeter wave emitter is proven technology and policy authorities have validated ADS as compliant with U.S. and international treaty safety requirements. The Zeus Laser Ordnance Neutralization System (Zeus) is a vehiclebased solid state laser that can clear unexploded ordnance (UXO) and unexploded remnants of war (URW). This improves safety for friendly forces and local personnel during the elimination and removal of these materials. ADS and Zeus provide faster engagements, ultra-precise targeting, reduced collateral damage, and alternative solutions to explosive kinetic-based munitions in stability operations. They also provide new options for protecting the homeland and infrastructure while meeting the current and future needs of our armed forces. The Chamber requests that the Army move these programs from ACTD into programs of record, and provide full funding to accelerate the placement of these systems into the hands of our soldiers.

Directed Energy S&T Directed Energy Science and Technology is vital for the design, development and demonstration of future weapons capabilities. The High Energy Laser Technology Demonstrator (HELTD) Program will integrate technology components, including solid state lasers, beam control assembly, electrical power, thermal management and battle management networks. HELTD capabilities will be demonstrated in relative operational environments to engage rockets, artillery and mortars and other airborne threats. The Joint High Power Solid State Laser (JHPSSL) Program will develop a 100kw high energy laser to be integrated into the HELTD Program. These efforts are the bridge for a new warfighter capability and the Chamber requests additional funding for Directed Energy S&T programs.

NASA VISION FOR SPACE EXPLORATION The Chamber strongly supports NASA’s Vision for Space Exploration (VSE) and near term efforts for continued safe Space Shuttle operations and completion of the International Space Station. We urge Congress to pass a robust FY08 budget that enables NASA to implement the critical programs and projects with meaningful progress towards the Administration’s civil space goals. The Chamber urges that adequate consideration be given to the budgetary, workforce and program assignment issues associated with the transition from the Space Shuttle and Space Station Programs to new program elements. In particular, the Chamber urges Congress to support the timely development efforts of the Ares launch vehicle systems to minimize the gap between Space Shuttle retirement and initial operations of the Ares/Orion systems. Full Ares I funding will also provide maximum leverage to support future Ares V needs and support a sustainable overall program. The Marshall Center's Science and Mission Systems Office conducts scientific research, instrument development, and program/project management for Earth science, space science and optics. MSFC currently manages over 25 independent science projects providing a balanced and sustainable portfolio for the center while providing mission-enabling scientific information for the human space flight elements. The Chamber strongly supports the excellence of the Marshall Space Flight Center in key areas critical to NASA’s scientific

objectives, such as high-energy Astronomy, Solar Physics, Lunar and Interstellar Dust, Severe Weather and Climate Modeling, Remote Sensing, and applications of Earth Science research. The Chamber urges Congress to support a balanced science program containing content in these key elements. The Chamber recommends full funding for all scientific projects and full support for the facilities master plan to enable the critical infrastructure for the next 40 years. Of special interest, the Chamber recommends full funding of the Lunar Precursor Robotic Program, including a robotic lunar lander that will solve key technical issues associated with future human lander systems. The Lunar Precursor Robotic Program is an essential piece of the Exploration policy as articulated by the President and endorsed on an overwhelming bipartisan basis by Congress through the NASA Authorization Act. As a full partner with NASA, the Huntsville / Madison County community stands ready to assist MSFC, the Agency and the Nation in maintaining U.S. Leadership in space and in providing a proper legacy for future generations of space explorers. The Chamber strongly encourages NASA to continue to include local industry and academia in teaming for on-going and new exploration opportunities.

ARMY AVIATION The Army will meet its FY2020 aviation vision through currently funded modernization programs and systems acquisitions. Major acquisition programs including the Block III Apache modernization; production of the modernized Black Hawk; production of the modernized CH-47F; along with the acquisition of the Light Utility Helicopter, Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter, and Joint Cargo Aircraft are real successes. However, Science and Technology funding for rotary wing/tilt rotor aircraft is approximately one half of the levels seen in the mid 1980s. The delegation is urged to prepare for the future upgrade or replacement of currently deployed Army and Marine aviation systems by increasing investment in rotary wing Science and Technology. This support will enable critical new systems such as the Joint Heavy Lift (JHL) and Joint Multi-Role platforms. Specifically, the S&T investments will support virtual cockpit simulator and System Integration Lab upgrades, providing early user test beds with fully operational aviation hardware and software in a controlled laboratory environment. In addition, the Army and Marines need a true transformational platform for heavy lift. The delegation is urged to support funding for a competitive Joint Heavy Lift (JHL) program. Near term efforts will provide capabilities leading to a Technology Demonstration (TD) program beginning in FY12 and a JHL System Design and Demonstration in 2018. These efforts will provide transformational capability, while providing greater payload, performance, lethality, safety/ survivability, sustainability and readiness. Please see “Army Aviation” in the Appendix

COOPERATIVE INSTITUTE FOR REMOTE SENSING NOAA’s mission to study small-scale weather phenomenon, air quality, and global and regional climate variations are important to the quality of life and economic growth of North Alabama. Huntsville has one of the nation’s largest concentrations of atmospheric scientists working to better understand the global environment., including university scientists, engineers, and technicians, NASA Marshall’s Earth Science Department, and the staff of the Huntsville Weather Forecast Office. Co-location at the National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC) creates a vibrant setting for successful collaboration and technology sharing. 3

The Chamber supports the establishment of a NOAA Cooperative Institute for Remote Sensing Applications (CIRSA) at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. CIRSA will enable a new knowledge and understanding of the Earth’s environment through cutting-edge research in the application of remote sensing systems and information technologies. Building on the atmospheric science community located at the NSSTC, this Cooperative Institute will provide new products, technologies and services for a broad range of NOAA activities. Existing and emerging technologies will improve opportunities for NOAA and its clientele through new functionality for accessing, exploiting and presenting satellite and ground sensor data. Improved weather forecasting, accurate documentation of long-term climate change, and improved air quality data products will be enabled by this cooperative institute. While UAH currently works with a number of NOAA organizations, formalizing the NOAA/UAH relationship through a Cooperative Institute would extend the infrastructure and expertise and enable NOAA to solve special problems for the humid Southeast in particular, and the nation and world as a whole.

MISSILE AND SPACE INTELLIGENCE CENTER The Missile and Space Intelligence Center provides vital intelligence support to the Combatant Commanders, the Redstone Arsenal community, and other critical national customers. The intelligence community has experienced a decline in Scientific and Technical Intelligence resources due to growing operational requirements for the Global War on Terror. Continued shortfalls in General Defense Intelligence Program (GDIP) S&TI funding will threaten future U.S. warfighting capabilities and diminish the effectiveness of ongoing weapon system programs such as the F-35 and JSF. Aggressive developments in air and space defense by adversary nations could imperil U.S. capabilities in future conflicts. The Chamber requests additional investment in GDIP S&TI to ensure continued dominance of the battlespace by U.S. forces. MSIC also leads the nation in providing scientific intelligence to weapon developers, policy makers, and the combatant commands. The Threat Modeling and Analysis Program, the Next Generation Electronic Warfare Reprogramming Database (NGES), and the Joint Research Assessment and Analysis Center (JRAAC), are key to advancing U.S. supremacy on future battlefields. It is essential that MSIC have the necessary communications and computing infrastructures, as well as personnel, contractor, and other resources. The Chamber urges strong support for MSIC infrastructure and resource needs.

TACTICAL MISSILE S&T Huntsville has earned its reputation as the Nation’s Center of Excellence for tactical missile and missile & space systems’ technology. However, funding decisions have resulted in tactical missile S&T, modification and upgrade programs being flat-lined, decreased or eliminated. Consequently, there are no new tactical missile programs transitioning from the S&T base into production in the FYDP 08-13. Further reductions will have a direct negative impact on the Nation's engineering, technical and managerial skills, uniquely germane to the tactical missile technology domain. Consequently, a renewed focus on tactical missile S&T and the application of that technology to new systems is urgently needed. Priorities include, advanced tactical propulsion systems, next-generation missile seekers, nanomaterials for missile applications, multiple and scaleable effects warheads, and advanced materials. New technologies to counter active protection systems, as well a new missile system designed for use 4

on a wide range of unmanned aerial vehicles is critically needed. The Chamber requests increased attention and increased investment in Tactical Missile S&T. Please see “Tactical Mission S&T” in the Appendix

OPERATIONALLY RESPONSIVE SPACE The Huntsville community supports the Space and Missile Defense Command Technical Center vision for developing operationally responsive space technologies and capabilities for DoD’s Operationally Responsive Space initiative. The SMDC Technical Center is pivotal for technology development, systems engineering/ integration, program management and acquisition of space capabilities to meet the urgent warfighter needs. The Chamber encourages full funding of SMDC TacSat and Operationally Responsive Space unfunded requirements and future micro and nano-satellite technology development initiatives. Specific technology investment will focus on critical need areas, including Micro- and nano-satellite technology; optical and RF sensors, communications payloads, attitude control sensors and propulsion, swarm constellations and formation flying technologies, space situational awareness, and low cost rocket technologies

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Huntsville’s reputation for quick, effective response to the most demanding technical challenges makes us uniquely qualified to address the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) demands. In order to maximize the synergy of expertise, the Chamber urges the delegation to encourage DHS to establish a regional S&T office in Huntsville, which will bring the DHS closer to its mission and create an increased national level of significance for our community. DHS S&T has three main portfolios of technology requirements for protecting the homeland and providing federal and local officials with state-of-the-art capability. Huntsville’s technology foundation specifically addresses these portfolios and objectives. The Aviation and Missile Research, Development and Engineering Center (AMRDEC) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Hazardous Devices School support the Countermeasures Portfolio, which focus on protecting the homeland against weapons of mass destruction. The U.S. Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and the Secure Border Initiative (SBI) provide S&T capabilities to increase missionfocused operational end-users capabilities, assist them in securing the homeland, and enhance their ability to conduct missions. In addition, the Cross-Cutting Portfolios are addressed through the Technical Support Working Group (TSWG) and Prototype Integration Facility (PIF). Government funding for research and development is vital for Huntsville’s economic success. For example, the SBINet solution has created more than 120 engineering and professional jobs in our city. Additionally, federal programs employ more than 17,000 government personnel and support 32,000 contractors at more than 500 companies in the Huntsville area. By leveraging Department of Defense (DOD) funding, these projects create joint interoperability among the military and DHS at the federal, state, and local levels by implementing the same innovative technology. The Alabama Department of Homeland Security, in cooperation with the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command, established the Office of Assistant Director Science and Technology for the Alabama DHS. This program aligns perfectly with the mission and objectives

of the DHS and can serve as an anchor for establishing an S&T office in Huntsville. Additional funding will expand capabilities and provide an immediate and accessible link for the Huntsville community to access and support DHS S&T requirements. The Chamber encourages the delegation to promote the awareness of science and technology developments made by Redstone Arsenal’s tenant commands, academia, and local industry to support the DHS mission, maintain cutting edge solutions, and create new jobs in our city.

NANOTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE The establishment of the Hudson Alpha Institute for Biotechnology (HAIB), and the recent Department of Labor award for workforce development in biotechnology and nanotechnology has established an extraordinary environment to develop innovative materials and remarkable new nano-based technologies. In response, there is a rapidly growing numbers of industrial partners in bio and nanotechnologies and Huntsville is producing an abundance of biotechnology and nanomaterials and maintains enormous intellectual wealth in these areas. However, due to limited funding for the Army’s Center-wideNanotechnology Research Initiative, these remarkable resources remain essentially untapped for military applications. AMRDEC’s Nanotechnology Initiative is aimed at developing lighter, stronger materials, more effective propellants and explosives, and more sensitive and specific chemical and mechanical sensors. Target applications include the Urban Assault Weapon, the Javelin, munitions for unmanned systems, and materiel protection and maintenance. Funding for the Nanotechnology Initiative will also enable closer collaboration with local biotechnology efforts. Shared intellectual power, material resources and a commitment to research will have a great impact on medical breakthroughs and military applications of the same technology. One example is the development of missile warhead fuses, based on nano-technology, that could discriminate between hard and soft targets. Materials and ideas adapted from biological systems and incorporated into nanotechnologies offer previously unavailable specificity and selectivity for such fuses. The chamber requests that this Initiative receive increased and stable funding to realize the full capabilities of this critical program and to maximize the synergy with the Hudson Alpha Institute and other contributing organizations.

INFRASTRUCTURE Madison County is the regional center for employment, multi-modal transportation assets, educational and healthcare resources, and retail services. Between 2004 and 2006, businesses invested over $1.1 billion to locate or expand their interests in Madison County, and announced over 13,500 new jobs. Job growth has influenced many facets of the economy. For example, the Huntsville International Airport Intermodal Center has upgraded its facilities, and will continue to expand to meet growing market demands. Over five years, Huntsville has added over 3 million square feet of major retail services, with more development underway. The regional population will increase by about 22% by the year 2015 and requires that Madison County’s priority corridors be improved and constructed so that travel to the region’s economic, education, healthcare, and retail opportunities may be efficient and safe. The Chamber encourages our Congressional delegation to support critical infrastructure needs.

Southern Bypass The Chamber’s highest priority infrastructure project is the construc-

tion of the Southern Bypass. The bypass will greatly improve access to Redstone Arsenal and is an essential link in the development of the Memphis-Huntsville-Atlanta corridor. The bypass will relieve congestion on the over-capacity Memorial Parkway and accommodate approximately 30,000 people driving from surrounding cities. The corridor will increase access to the community further enhancing the economic impact generated by travel and tourism As a critical first element of the Memphis-Huntsville-Atlanta Highway, this project is positioned for immediate development. Preliminary engineering and environmental studies have been conducted and a final route has been designed by the Alabama Department of Transportation. industry.Federal funds for design finalization and right of way acquisition is requested. Now that the environmental impact statement for the Memphis through Huntsville to Atlanta Highway has been approved, it is extremely important this nationally significant highway be given top priority.

US 72 East/ARC Corridor V A limited access expressway along US 72 east will sustain present economic growth, encourage future economic development, and improve opportunities for the region’s businesses and industries to compete in domestic and global markets. The project will complete the corridor as a limited access expressway through Madison County and will assist the Appalachian Regional Commission to meet the goals of the ARC Strategic Plan for 2005-2010. By 2030, an estimated 68,000 daily trips will be taken via US 72 East by Jackson County commuters alone. These trips, in addition to the corridor’s intra-county trips will have a direct effect on efficient mobility. By the year 2015, it is estimated that the corridor will experience extreme congestion if no improvements are made. It is requested that funding be allocated and appropriated through the ARC budget as soon as possible to fund this much needed corridor.

US 231 North & South Overpasses & Corridor Improvements US 231 is a heavily traveled major arterial that provides north/south access through the middle of Madison County. It is used by regional commuters and freight carriers as a main access road into Huntsville from the north and the south. It is projected that by the year 2030, approximately 90,000 daily trips will be made on the northern portion of 231 by commuters from Lincoln County, Tennessee. Additionally, 90,000 daily commuter trips are expected on the southern portion of the corridor, originating from Morgan County. To meet the emerging needs of the community, northbound overpasses are planned at the intersections of US 231 North and Winchester Road, Meridian Street, and the Northern Bypass. Planned southbound overpasses are at the intersections of Mountain Gap Road, Hobbs Road, and Green Cove Road. Once completed, US 231 will provide direct linkage to other access controlled roadways like I-565, the Southern Bypass, and the Northern Bypass greatly increasing mobility on the network. It is requested that funding be appropriated in a timely manner for the construction of the scheduled improvements. Funding is also requested for the preliminary engineering, right of way acquisition, and construction of the planned capacity projects required for US 231.

Port of Huntsville The Port of Huntsville appreciates the support of our congressional delegation with the funding to date for the recent expansion of the International Intermodal Center (IIC). In order to keep pace with the 32% growth at the IIC we need additional funding to construct and implement Phase IV of our Intermodal Center Masterplan. This phase includes the funding for an additional air cargo apron that will be necessary for the operation of the previously funded air cargo facility. 5