New start equipment grant titled: expansion of BAM range research instrumentation for advancement of DOD critical technologies

The U.S. Army Materiel Command Research Development and Engineering Command awarded The Texas A&M University System a $34.85 million Project Grant on July 14, 2025, under the Basic Scientific Research program (CFDA 12.431) to expand ballistic, aero-optic, and materials (BAM) range research instrumentation. The award, with a completion date of July 13, 2028, supports the development and advancement of specialized range testing facilities and instrumentation capabilities at the university's College Station, Texas location. This expansion directly addresses critical Department of Defense technology priorities by enhancing the university system's ability to conduct advanced materials testing, ballistic analysis, and aero-optical research essential to maintaining dominant strategic land power capabilities.

The research initiative leverages The Texas A&M University System's established expertise in federal research partnerships and advanced instrumentation development. As a Land Grant institution with demonstrated capabilities across scientific and technological domains, the university will design, procure, and implement enhanced range instrumentation to support long-term Department of Defense national security objectives. The three-year performance period aligns with the Basic Scientific Research program's emphasis on high-risk, high-payoff fundamental investigations that generate innovative discoveries with potential applications to emerging military technology challenges.