What Happened
Michigan Plays Key Role in Advancing Defense Technology
U.S. Rep. Tom Barrett recently spoke at the Michigan State University Research Foundation’s 2026 Mobility Summit, emphasizing the importance of innovation and national security in the defense sector. Barrett, a retired army helicopter pilot, highlighted Michigan’s historical role as the ‘arsenal of democracy’ and its current efforts to advance autonomous ground vehicles. He also expressed concerns over the use of Chinese-made drones and vehicles, citing national security risks. The event was reported by Michigan Advance.