The Applied Research Laboratory at the University of Hawai'i has been awarded a $26.2 million contract for research, development and specialized engineering services in ocean environmental effects, astronomical research, advanced electro-optical systems, laser and remote sensing detection systems.

The contract with the US. Navy Sea Systems Command was not competitively procured. The U.S. Department of Defense said the capabilities at the Applied Research Laboratory have been determined to be essential to support numerous programs.