A new Arlington lab will simulate real ship conditions as part of an $86M Navy contract, helping ensure critical systems work before deployment.
ARLINGTON, Texas — The University of Texas at Arlington has secured an $86 million contract from the U.S. Navy to support the development of advanced power and propulsion systems critical to future shipbuilding.
UTA’s Power and Energy Innovative Research (PEIR) Lab will lead the effort under its Pulsed Power and Energy Laboratory (PPEL).
“We’re honored that the Navy chose UT Arlington for this work,” UTA President Jennifer Cowley said. “At our core, we have always been a practical-minded institution dedicated to making an impact.”
The PEIR lab, located in South Arlington, officially opened Thursday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring university and city leaders.
The facility is designed to test next-generation technologies, including advanced propulsion systems and directed energy systems, in a controlled environment that simulates real-world ship conditions. University officials say the lab allows researchers to identify potential issues early and ensure systems are reliable before deployment.
David Wetz, professor of electrical engineering and the lab’s director, is committed to advancing innovations.
“We’re deeply grateful for this partnership that reflects years of collaborative work and a shared commitment to advancing innovations that matter,” Wetz said. “UTA is proud to contribute our expertise, facilities and talent to support next-generation innovation while helping prepare the engineers who will continue to advance these technologies.”
The Arlington-based PPEL is a defense-focused testing and demonstration facility that has conducted research on energy storage systems, including batteries and capacitors, since its founding in 2010. The lab specializes in evaluating how these technologies perform under extreme power conditions beyond those found in consumer electronics.
Local leaders say the investment highlights North Texas as a growing hub for defense and engineering innovation.
“These projects don’t happen by accident; they happen because both Arlington and UTA believe in the power of collaboration,” Arlington Mayor Jim Ross said.
Congressman Roger Williams also praised the contract, calling it critical to maintaining U.S. naval strength.
“This investment will play a critical role in helping ensure the Navy remains the strongest fighting force in the world,” Williams said.
Cowley said the project reflects UTA’s broader mission.
“This facility embodies what we hope to do best with our research—bring together smart people, solve practical and pressing challenges and forge strong partnerships in service of real-world impact,” she said.