Homeland Defense Technology Transfer Program

The Homeland Defense Technology Transfer Program (PE 0305387D8Z), managed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, is a congressionally mandated initiative designed to identify, evaluate, and transfer Department of Defense (DoD) dual-use technologies to federal, state, and local first responders. The program's primary objective is to enhance homeland security by providing first responders with advanced equipment and technology that support critical mission requirements during both major crises and routine operations. This effort is conducted in accordance with Section 1401 of the Bob Stump National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2003, ensuring that technology transfers do not impede military readiness.

The program's goals are multifaceted. It accelerates the development of technologies suitable for dual-use, increases the effectiveness of equipment transfers, and ensures that the process is balanced so as not to degrade military capabilities. The program actively collaborates with Homeland Defense Integration and Defense Support of Civil Authorities leadership, as well as other DoD components and interagency partners, to identify technologies and excess equipment with long-term utility for first responders. By doing so, the program aims to reduce the frequency and scale of requests for assistance from federal and state partners, allowing the Department to focus more on strategic national security objectives.

A significant aspect of the program involves building partnership capacity with agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice, and academic institutions like the Naval Postgraduate School's Center for Homeland Defense and Security. Through these partnerships, the program conducts research projects to assess gaps and shortfalls in areas including border security and wildland fire response. The outcomes of these studies are formal reports that provide technology solutions and policy recommendations for senior leaders, supporting evidence-based decision-making in homeland security.

The program specifically funds the identification, evaluation, and transfer of DoD technologies and excess property to first responders. This includes outreach, coordination, and cooperation with interagency partners to ensure that transferred technologies are appropriate for the respective end-users, such as law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical service personnel. The program also works with the Defense Logistics Agency to expedite the transfer of excess military equipment, supporting first responder needs while maintaining military readiness.

In FY 2024, congressional funding supported the Dual Advanced Use Trauma System project. This included support for four dual-use technologies aligned with departmental priorities, such as fentanyl detection, customs and border protection support, and the development of a fentanyl protection suit and integrated sensing technology. The program also funded the development of a container system from the DoD lock program, which assists law enforcement in securing investigative materials and maintaining chain of custody for sensitive items. These efforts directly support both warfighters and the first responder community.

Program activities include ongoing outreach and the use of subject matter experts and governance councils to prioritize technology transfer requirements and expedite the delivery of dual-use technologies. Planned efforts for FY 2025 and FY 2026 focus on continuing support for the first responder community, enhancing excess equipment transfer capabilities, and aligning technology needs with the lines of effort of partner agencies. The program is also subject to adjustments for inflation and administrative cost efficiencies, as directed by Executive Order 14222.