Development of internet access technologies by the Defense Innovation Unit

(a) In general The Director of the Defense Innovation Unit (referred to in this section as the Unit) shall undertake efforts to support the development of low-cost, easily scalable, and rapidly deployable technologies to counter internet shutdowns or limitations on network access abroad, particularly those imposed by adversary countries, to enable populations to overcome such restrictions. (b) Objectives In carrying out the responsibilities under subsection (a), the Director of the Unit shall prioritize the following objectives: (1) Identifying and supporting the development of technologies capable of overcoming internet blackouts and network disruptions imposed by an adversary country and facilitating internet and network access, including— (A) low Earth orbit satellite internet infrastructure; (B) mesh networking solutions; (C) portable and deployable communication systems; and (D) virtual private networks. (2) Collaborating with industry, academia, and relevant stakeholders to accelerate the research, development, and deployment of such technologies. (3) Conducting pilot programs and field experiments to test the effectiveness and scalability of developed solutions in real-world settings. (4) Providing technical assistance and resources to partner organizations, governments, and nongovernmental entities engaged in efforts to expand internet access. (5) Identifying and evaluating off-the-shelf technologies that could be rapidly procured and deployed to address internet access challenges in targeted regions. (c) Collaboration with Defense Acquisition University The Director of the Unit shall collaborate with the head of the Defense Acquisition University to leverage expertise in acquisition processes and practices related to carrying out the objectives under subsection (b) with the aim of— (1) integrating best practices in defense acquisition into the research, development, and deployment processes of technologies developed by the Unit to facilitate internet access; (2) ensuring that technologies developed by the Unit align with acquisition priorities and strategies of the Department of Defense; (3) providing training and educational opportunities for Unit personnel on acquisition principles, regulations, and procedures, with a focus on technology development for countering censorship and related restrictions; (4) fostering dialogue and exchange of knowledge between acquisition professionals and innovation specialists to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of defense technology acquisition related to internet access technologies; and (5) collaborating on the development of acquisition strategies that prioritize the rapid acquisition and deployment of technologies aimed at countering censorship and restrictions on internet access. (d) Reporting Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and on an annual basis thereafter, the Director of the Unit shall submit to the Secretary of Defense and the congressional defense committees a report detailing the progress, challenges, and outcomes of the efforts undertaken pursuant to this section.