Two Nonprofits Create New Consortium to Support US Defense Electronics Base

Advanced Technology International and the U.S. Partnership for Assured Electronics have established a consortium as both nonprofit organizations aim to drive domestic production of electronic systems for defense use.

ATI said Thursday the Defense Electronics Consortium will support a research and development effort focused on lead-free electronics manufacturing as part of USPAE’s $42 million agreement with the Department of Defense.

The Congress-backed “Lead (Pb)-Free Defense Electronics Project” will serve as the alliance’s first initiative and is focused on addressing environmental and health risks associated with lead alloy manufacturing processes.

DEC will facilitate further collaborations through other transaction agreements to allow flexibilities for internally funded projects, ATI noted.

The Charleston, South Carolina-based nonprofit is responsible for DEC’s administrative operations, financial controls and member engagement.

Chris Van Metre, president and CEO of ATI, said that DEC members collectively bring deep knowledge of the industry as well as key facilities and research expertise to help fortify the nation’s defense electronics supply chain.

Auburn University, Binghamton University, Purdue University and the University of Maryland intend to provide academic insights to the consortium’s first project.

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