The research aims to use a cyber autonomy range to perform software, models, data, and development of methodologies that incorporate relevant security systems, facilities, and infrastructure necessary…

Southern Methodist University's Office of Research and Innovation has been awarded a $2.7 million Cooperative Agreement by the U.S. Army Research Development and Engineering Command under the Basic Scientific Research program (CFDA 12.431). The award, effective September 15, 2025, through September 14, 2028, supports the development of a cyber autonomy range facility designed to advance cybersecurity research capabilities. The project deliverables include the creation of software, models, data, and methodologies that integrate relevant security systems, facilities, and infrastructure necessary to conduct comprehensive cyber vulnerability assessments and research activities.

This three-year initiative aligns with the Basic Scientific Research program's objective to support fundamental scientific investigation across computing and information sciences disciplines in support of long-term national security needs. As a private research institution with demonstrated expertise in advanced computational modeling and engineering research, SMU will leverage its interdisciplinary capabilities and facilities in Dallas, Texas to design and operationalize the cyber autonomy range, enabling the government and research community to conduct high-risk, high-payoff cybersecurity research and development activities.

The research aims to use a cyber autonomy range to perform software, models, data, and development of methodologies that incorporate relevant security systems, facilities, and infrastructure necessary to perform cyber vulnerability