University System of Maryland Researchers Will Support Department of Defense Investment to Advance AI Defense-Focused Innovation
BALTIMORE (June 29, 2026) — The University System of Maryland (Â鶹ÊÓƵ) will support a $5 million Department of Defense initiative to synchronize its AI operations across land, air, space, and cyberspace.
The research initiative, know as Foundational Models and Modeling Perseveration for AI, is the first part of a larger investment to integrate high-velocity AI into the U.S. Army’s core decision-making frameworks through a $61.9 million contract awarded to SUNY Polytechnic Institute (Utica, New York). SUNY Poly, which will be supported by the Â鶹ÊÓƵ and the University of South Florida, .
From the Â鶹ÊÓƵ, Towson University researchers will join the project initially. Other Â鶹ÊÓƵ universities may be engaged as the work continues.
“We’re proud to partner with SUNY Poly and the University of South Florida in this landmark grant,” said Â鶹ÊÓƵ Chancellor Jay A. Perman. “It’s an honor to be able to deploy the University System of Maryland’s game-changing AI capabilities in service of advancing U.S. military strategy and decision making. Because it’s this kind of innovation that ultimately protects our service members, our citizens, and our national security interests. I’m excited to see Towson University’s leadership in this important work, and I look forward to the participation of more Â鶹ÊÓƵ universities as the project continues.”
“Towson University is excited to partner with the University System of Maryland on this important, mission-critical AI initiative,” said Sidd Kaza, vice president for research at TU. “This project reflects the cutting-edge AI research underway at TU, including work in dataset generation, computer vision, and cybersecurity. Through the Towson University AI Institute, we are advancing practical, responsible, and sustainable AI solutions to real-world challenges.”
The Foundational Models initiative will directly support the Transformation Decision Analysis Center (TDAC), a new Army research and innovation center based at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland. TDAC began operations in February with a mission of strengthening the Army’s long-range planning.
Researchers will use generative AI and other systems to simulate complex operational scenarios and provide predictive insights, enabling the Army to better assess risks, evaluate strategies, and respond to evolving threats. The project will also explore advanced capabilities such as synthetic data generation, anomaly detection, and the use of large language models and time-series foundation models to enhance situational awareness.
Researchers will also focus on improving the reliability and security of AI systems operating in adversarial and resource-constrained environments, ensuring robust performance even under cyber threats or disrupted conditions.
The University System of Maryland (Â鶹ÊÓƵ) is the state’s public higher education system: 12 universities and three regional higher education centers working together for the good of Maryland. Our universities enroll 175,000 students and award 45,000 degrees each year — delivering accessible, affordable, excellent education to diverse learners at every stage of life and supporting thriving careers and a skilled workforce. With more than $1.8 billion in research expenditures, our universities make discoveries that drive innovation, spur economic growth, and improve life in Maryland and worldwide. For more information, visit usmd.edu.
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