The National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI) at the University of Nebraska has been awarded a $500 million indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract from U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) to advance rapid-response research and development efforts supporting national defense.
The contract reinforces NSRI’s long-standing partnership with USSTRATCOM and continues its designation as a University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), a distinction held by only 15 institutions nationwide. While the IDIQ structure does not guarantee funding, it enables federal agencies to quickly issue task orders for specific research projects without lengthy procurement processes.
The award represents the largest contract in the University of Nebraska system’s history and includes a five-year base period with a five-year option. It is also NSRI’s fourth IDIQ from USSTRATCOM, following previous awards totaling $84 million in 2012, $92 million in 2018, and $107 million in 2020.
NSRI, established in 2012, focuses on strategic deterrence and countering weapons of mass destruction. Its work spans electromagnetic warfare, engineered pathogens, radiation protection, and broader chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats. The institute has supported more than 50 federal and state agencies, delivering hundreds of research outputs, technologies, and operational tools.
Recent initiatives funded under prior contracts include electromagnetic operations analysis across joint forces, development of a prophylactic for acute radiation syndrome, infectious aerosol risk studies for naval hospital ships, gamma radiation protection technologies, and comprehensive CBRN readiness and training frameworks.
NSRI collaborates with researchers and students across the University of Nebraska’s four campuses, as well as national academic and research partners. Its infrastructure includes specialized facilities such as the Global Center for Health Security, the Nebraska Biocontainment Unit, and advanced engineering and cyber-physical laboratories, enabling rapid translation of academic research into operational military capabilities.
The contract underscores the growing demand for accelerated innovation to address evolving national security threats and positions NSRI to expand its role in delivering mission-critical solutions to defense agencies.
KEY QUOTES:
“This IDIQ represents far more than a contracting mechanism — it’s a vote of confidence in the institute’s continued and future execution of critical research to meet national defense requirements. With emerging threats such as electromagnetic warfare and engineered pathogens evolving at an unprecedented pace, the DOW is accelerating critical research from concept to capability. This award expands the opportunity for NSRI and the University of Nebraska to meet the demand signal of the Department with proven flexibility, innovation and speed.”
Rick Evans, Executive Director, National Strategic Research Institute
“Today’s evolving national security threats mean we need mission-critical research solutions faster than ever. I couldn’t be more proud of world-class expertise provided by University of Nebraska’s NSRI, and I look forward to seeing how U.S. Strategic Command and federal agencies will utilize this trusted strategic research organization.”
Deb Fischer, U.S. Senator and Chair, Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces
“Defending the American homeland requires the best minds working on our most pressing challenges. This IDIQ vehicle ensures NSRI, and the University of Nebraska’s four campuses, can rapidly deploy leading research towards nuclear deterrence challenges and emerging technologies. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I’m pleased that Nebraska continues leading the way in translating academic innovation into operational defense capabilities that protect American lives.”
Don Bacon, U.S. Congressman
“This new contract continues our immediate national impact, and I am deeply grateful for this opportunity. Our infrastructure, combined with faculty who’ve spent decades supporting military missions and students eager to serve, creates a powerful force: a university system where academic excellence meets operational urgency to address our nation’s most critical defense needs.”
Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold, President, University of Nebraska System
