S-3454 : Still Just a Bill

The "Growing University Artificial Intelligence Research for Defense Act of 2025," also known as the "GUARD Act of 2025" (S. 3454), aims to strengthen the United States' national security and defense capabilities through advancements in artificial intelligence (AI).

Key provisions of the bill include:

• Establishment of Institutes: Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to establish one or more National Security and Defense Artificial Intelligence Institutes. These Institutes would be located at eligible host institutions, which include U.S. institutions of higher education conducting Department of Defense-sponsored research or senior military colleges.
• Institute Focus: Each Institute is designed to:
  • Address critical challenges or foundational science in AI for the national security and defense sectors.
  • Foster partnerships among public and private organizations, including federal agencies, universities (including community colleges), research organizations, federal laboratories, state/local/Tribal governments, and industry (including the Defense Industrial Base and startup companies).
  • Cultivate or enhance innovation ecosystems to translate AI research into practical applications for national security and defense.
  • Support interdisciplinary research and development across various institutions.
  • Contribute to the development of an AI-skilled workforce in the United States.
• Financial Assistance: The Secretary of Defense is authorized to provide financial assistance to eligible host institutions or consortia to establish and support these Institutes. Funds may be used for activities such as:
  • Managing secure, standardized data sets for AI training and research relevant to national security.
  • Developing and managing AI testbeds to evaluate systems prior to deployment.
  • Conducting AI research and education to solve national security challenges.
  • Providing access to computing, networking, and data facilities for AI research.
  • Offering technical assistance, including software engineering support.
  • Engaging in outreach to broaden participation in AI research and workforce development.
• Duration and Review: Financial assistance would be awarded for an initial five-year period, with the possibility of one five-year renewal. Awards will be made through a competitive, merit-based review process.
• Restrictions: Financial assistance is strictly limited to entities within the United States; no funds may be awarded to organizations based outside the U.S.