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Sustainment and Modernization Resiliency

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Sustainment and Modernization Resiliency

“… continuous maintenance and upgrading of defense systems to ensure operational effectiveness while adapting to evolving technological and strategic demands.”


Sustainment and modernization are vital for the United States' capability and readiness against evolving threats. Led by OADII, pioneering research in advanced manufacturing ensures critical parts' sustainability, fortifying the defense sector's supply chain resilience. Efforts extend to advanced materials, airworthiness certification, and corrosion detection. Educational initiatives at the University of Oklahoma nurture skilled workforces, empowering them to lead in advancing manufacturing and supply chain management, fortifying national security through innovation and education.

In the realm of national security, the twin pillars of sustainment and modernization stand as stalwart guardians of the United States' ongoing capability, readiness, and technological superiority in the face of evolving threats. As the nation's safeguard, effective sustainment of military assets is paramount, ensuring operational readiness while prolonging equipment lifespan and minimizing downtime. Meanwhile, modernization initiatives drive the infusion of cutting-edge technologies into existing systems, bolstering their effectiveness and maintaining strategic superiority. 

Guided by the visionary leadership of OADII, we embark on pioneering research in advanced manufacturing, essential for sustaining critical parts and components within the U.S. defense sector. Our mission transcends conventional maintenance; we are dedicated to fortifying supply chain resilience and efficiency, thereby cementing our pivotal role in national security and technological supremacy. Our endeavors not only revolutionize traditional manufacturing paradigms but also mitigate risks stemming from supply chain vulnerabilities, particularly poignant during disruptions threatening national security. 

Our research has expanded into areas including advanced materials and coatings, improved airworthiness certification processes, and sophisticated corrosion detection and non-destructive inspection techniques. These advancements are vital in transforming traditional sustainment and modernization approaches from reactive to proactive strategies, emphasizing continuous engineering and development cycles.  

At the University of Oklahoma, our educational initiatives are meticulously designed to cultivate skilled workforces for pivotal roles in advancing manufacturing technologies and optimizing supply chain strategies within the defense sector. By fostering a nuanced understanding of both technological advancements and strategic imperatives in advanced manufacturing and supply chain management, we empower our students to lead in a complex global landscape. 

Through the fusion of interdisciplinary research, strategic alliances, and forward-thinking educational programs, OADII is uniquely positioned to confront the dual challenges of sustainment and modernization, thereby fortifying national security. Our unwavering commitment to delivering solutions that address both immediate exigencies and future requisites ensures the enduring leadership and security of the United States. 

Current Projects

  • Sustainment and Modernization Research and Development: Operationalizing Additive Manufacturing (funded by Air Force Research Laboratory).
  • Prototype for Direct Metal Laser Melting/Sintering (DMLM/S) Additive Manufacturing Efforts (funded by Oklahoma City – Air Logistics Complex)

Faculty Opportunities

  • DoD/DARPA/NASA Solicitation, including STTR programs
  • OADII internal funding opportunities
  • DoD/DARPA Young Investigator Award Programs
  • Commercialization and collaboration with industries
  • Patenting of OU innovation and licensing
  • Workforce development with DoD through certification, professional training, graduate studies, and remote learning programs

Yingtao Liu

Associate Director for Sustainment and Modernization


Research Focus 

  • Advanced additive manufacturing
  • Structural composites and functional nanocomposites
  • Nondestructive evaluation and testing
  • Intelligent sensors and structures
  • Structural health monitoring and prognostics
  • Engineering education