Texas Tech Gears Up To Protect Against EMP Threats

Great timing for Texas Tech in light of the recent events in the Middle East. The University will play a huge role in protecting the United States from an EMP.

Electromagnetic Pulse Testing Site

According to an announcement by Governor Abbott, Texas Tech University will receive $149 million to build an electromagnetic pulse testing site. Governor Abbott said, “This $149 million investment in cybersecurity will ensure that our state’s critical infrastructure systems are capable of withstanding attacks from hostile foreign adversaries.”

Tests Undertaken at the Site

According to Dallas Express, the testing facility will evaluate the damaging effect of an electromagnetic pulse on essential systems. Infrastructure that could be taken out by an electromagnetic pulse include the electric grid, water utilities, communications networks, and military assets.

Organizations Partnering with Tech

Texas Tech will partner with several government agencies According to Dallas Express, all three military branches and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Department of Energy will take part in the research.

Texas Tech’s Reese National Security Complex

Texas Tech University Reese National Security Complex (RNSC), a former business park and U.S. Air Force Base with a private airfield, is located 10 miles from Texas Tech on nearly 2,500 acres of land. Its location provides space and access to an isolated power source for intensive testing.

Programs and Facilities at the RNSC

Critical Infrastructure Security Institute (CISI)

Global Laboratory for Energy Asset Management & Manufacturing (GLEAMM)

National Wind Institute (NWI)

The Institute of Environmental & Human Health (TIEHH)

Critical Infrastructure Telecom Ecosystem Incubator (CITEI)

Center for Emerging Energy Sciences

Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) Test Site