Congresswoman Claudia Tenney Welcomes U.S. Air Force Under Secretary to Rome

Rome, NY – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22) today welcomed the Under Secretary for the Air Force, Gina Ortiz Jones, for a tour of the Air Force Research Laboratory Information Directorate (AFRL/RI), also known as Rome Lab. Their tour included an in-depth look at the cutting-edge research being conducted at Rome Lab, including an overview of the advanced research and development in quantum as well as in artificial intelligence and machine learning, and unmanned traffic systems. Rome Lab was recently designated as the Quantum Information Science Research Center for the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force, a critical development for the Lab and our region. 

In addition to Rome Lab, Under Secretary Jones also visited the Eastern Air Defense Sector (EADS), which is headquartered in Rome. EADS is responsible for protecting portions of our national airspace.  

“The groundbreaking research and development being conducted at Rome Lab protects Americans from threats each day, while cementing New York’s 22nd Congressional District as a hub for high-tech innovation. I am always grateful for the opportunity to showcase Rome Lab’s work and was honored to welcome the Under Secretary of the Air Force, Gina Ortiz Jones, for her first visit today,” said Congresswoman Claudia Tenney. "Under Secretary Jones’ visit underscores the importance of Rome Lab to the Air Force and our nation. During the visit, we had the opportunity to discuss how we can continue to work together to enhance and support the Lab’s critical mission and its incredible workforce. I appreciate her visit and firm commitment to Rome Lab’s success.” 

The House of Representatives recently passed the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included one of Tenney’s amendments in support of the Air Force Research Lab. This amendment would establish a quantum network computing testbed within the Department of the Air Force to develop a proof-of-concept quantum network testbed that may be accessed by prototype quantum computers at a $10 million funding level. This amendment directly benefits the Air Force Research Laboratory in Rome, New York. This was a huge win for Rome Lab that will boost our nation's technological capabilities and support our region's continued economic growth. The NDAA passed the House by a vote of 316-113. 

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